People with abilities that can help New Zealand’s economy flourish are eligible for this visa. You must submit an expression of interest (EOI) outlining your professional background and credentials.

A points system is used for the Skill Migrant Category Visa or SMC resident visa, and it is based on variables like age, qualifications, work experience, family ties, and a skilled employment offer. To qualify for this sort of visa, you must also be 55 years of age or younger and meet all conditions for your character, health, and command of the English language.

Applicants for this type of visa may submit an application for residency on behalf of themselves, their spouse, and any dependent children who are younger than 24 years old.

Before submitting an application, you must send Immigration New Zealand (INZ) an Expression of Interest (EOI) outlining your credentials, professional experience, and ability to settle in New Zealand.

If it receives more than one hundred sixty (160) points, this will be scored by INZ, and you will then be given the opportunity to submit a residence application.

Update: INZ increased the points threshold for selections from the Pool to one hundred eighty (180) points from 9 November 2022

The Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) Resident Visa offers a pathway to permanent residency in New Zealand for skilled professionals seeking to live and work in the country. Eligibility for this visa hinges on several criteria that attest to an applicant’s suitability as a skilled migrant. Key requirements include age, with applicants needing to be 55 years old or younger at the time of application. The visa operates on a points-based system, evaluating factors like age, work experience, qualifications, and New Zealand job offers. Applicants must also possess skills and experience relevant to occupations listed on New Zealand’s Long Term Skill Shortage List (LTSSL) or the Regional Skill Shortage List (RSSL). Meeting health and character standards, demonstrating English proficiency, submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI) outlining qualifications and experience, and receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) based on their EOI points are all crucial steps in obtaining the SMC Resident Visa. Once an ITA is received, applicants must submit a comprehensive application with all necessary supporting documentation.