Skilled Migrant Category

The Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) Resident Visa is New Zealand's primary pathway from temporary work to permanent residency. It's designed for people who are already working in New Zealand in a skilled role and can demonstrate they'll contribute to the economy long-term. You need 6 points from your skills and NZ work experience, earned through a combination of your occupation, qualifications, and income level.

To qualify, you'll need to be working in a role that requires occupational registration, a bachelor's degree or higher, or to be earning at least 1.5 times the median wage. Your employment must be permanent or on a fixed-term contract of at least 12 months. You'll also need to meet English language, health, and character requirements.

Big changes are coming in August 2026: the required NZ work experience drops from up to 3 years to a maximum of 2 years, and two new pathways are being introduced, a "Skilled Work Experience" pathway for ANZSCO skill levels 1-3, and a "Trades & Technician" pathway for trade roles with a level 4+ qualification. Concord tracks these policy changes closely and can advise on the optimal timing for your residence application.

The SMC is for skilled professionals who've been working in New Zealand and are ready to make it permanent. You're a strong candidate if you're currently on an AEWV or other work visa, have been in a skilled role for at least 2 years (or up to 3 years under current settings), and can meet the qualification or income thresholds. Common applicants include tech professionals, engineers, healthcare workers, and tradespeople.

It's also increasingly accessible for trades and technician roles, from August 2026, a new dedicated pathway means you won't need a bachelor's degree if you have a level 4+ trade qualification and relevant NZ work experience. If you're planning your immigration journey strategically, the SMC is typically the end goal, with the AEWV as your stepping stone.