Government Announces Changes to Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa

The Government has announced upcoming changes to the Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) Resident Visa, aimed at helping employers retain skilled workers and supporting New Zealand’s long-term economic growth.

New Residence Pathways

From August 2026, two new residence pathways will be introduced under the SMC:

1. Skilled Work Experience Pathway

   • For migrants in skilled roles (ANZSCO skill levels 1–3).

   • At least 5 years of directly relevant work experience required, including 2 years in New Zealand, earning at least 1.1 times the median wage.

2. Trades and Technician Pathway

   • For migrants in specified trade or technician roles.

   • Must hold a Level 4 or higher qualification (minimum 120 credits).

   • At least 4 years of post-qualification relevant experience required, including 18 months in New Zealand, paid at or above the median wage.

All applicants will also need to meet standard residence requirements, including health, character, and English language criteria.

Key Changes to the Current SMC

• Recognition of practical skills
  The new pathways better reflect the value of hands-on skills and the contributions migrants make to New Zealand’s workforce. Certain occupations will face additional eligibility criteria (Amber List), while others will be excluded (Red List) to ensure the system remains targeted.

• Increased points for New Zealand qualifications
  More points will be awarded for New Zealand university-level qualifications, particularly at master’s and doctoral level. This change supports the International Education Plan for Growth and encourages international students to study in New Zealand. Applicants claiming postgraduate points must also hold an undergraduate degree.

• Reduced New Zealand work experience requirements
  The maximum New Zealand work experience required for most pathways will decrease from 3 years to 2 years. This makes New Zealand more competitive in attracting skilled migrants.

• Simplified wage assessment
  Migrants will no longer need to meet a higher wage threshold at the time of applying for residence. Instead, they must maintain the required wage level consistently throughout their New Zealand work experience period.

Comparison of Current and New SMC Settings

Table 1: Summary of changes to SMC points and work experience

New Pathways (from August 2026)

Table 2: New pathways and eligibility requirements

• Red List: Occupations excluded from the new pathways (but may qualify through other SMC routes, e.g. qualifications or higher wages).

• Amber List: Occupations subject to extra eligibility criteria for the Skilled Work Experience Pathway. Not eligible for the Trades and Technician Pathway.

Employment and Other Requirements

All SMC applicants must:

• Hold skilled employment or a job offer at the relevant wage rate, and

• Meet residence requirements (health, character, English).

Timeline

These changes will take effect in August 2026. More detailed information, including the list of specified trades and technician roles, will be published closer to the time.

This announcement is part of the Government’s Going for Growth programme, which also focuses on refining the Accredited Employer Work Visa, strengthening education outcomes, and helping young people into work or training.