18/06/2026
๐จ NZ IMMIGRATION: SMC RESIDENCE PATHWAYS FROM 24 AUGUST 2026 ๐ณ๐ฟ
Immigration New Zealand has confirmed the final details of the upcoming Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa changes, which are expected to take effect from 24 August 2026.
These changes will introduce clearer and expanded residence pathways for skilled workers in New Zealand.
Key updates include:
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Clearer rules around how wage thresholds will be assessed across relevant Skilled Residence visa categories.
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Updated evidence requirements for qualifications.
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Confirmation that New Zealand Trades and Technician qualifications must total at least 120 credits, which may be met through more than one qualification where lower-level qualifications are prerequisites.
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Self-employment will not be accepted as directly relevant work experience under the new Skilled Work Experience Pathway or Trades and Technician Pathway.
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Additional measures to ensure skilled employment is genuine and meets policy requirements.
๐ Qualification evidence requirements
Applicants relying on Level 8 or Level 9 qualifications will generally need to provide evidence of a supporting Bachelorโs degree or equivalent undergraduate qualification, unless they are claiming 5 points for a New Zealand Masterโs degree.
Evidence may include:
โข Qualification certificate
โข Academic transcript
โข IQA for overseas qualifications, unless exempt under the List of Qualifications Exempt from Assessment
An IQA will not generally be required for the supporting Bachelorโs degree.
๐ Points system updates
โฌ๏ธ Bachelorโs degrees will increase from 3 points to 4 points.
The new SMC settings are intended to support New Zealand employers in attracting and retaining skilled workers, while providing clearer residence pathways for eligible migrants.
The key residence pathways include:
๐น Points-Based Pathway
๐น Skilled Work Experience Pathway
๐น Trades and Technician Pathway
Every case will depend on the applicantโs occupation, wage rate, qualification, work experience, and overall residence eligibility.
For a personalised assessment, contact Visapoint Immigration Services Ltd.
Source: Immigration New Zealand
Disclaimer: This post is for general information only and does not constitute immigration advice. Eligibility must be assessed against the full Immigration New Zealand instructions applicable at the time of application.
Immigration New Zealand (INZ) is announcing final details on changes to the Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) ahead of these changes taking effect on 24 August 2026. In addition, INZ is also announcing changes to the wage rate rules for the Work to Residence (WTR) pathway.
