The New Zealand Government has announced significant changes to the Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) Resident Visa, designed to help employers retain skilled workers and support long-term economic growth. These upcoming changes to the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa will take effect in August 2026 and introduce new residence pathways, updated eligibility criteria, and simplified work experience requirements. Under the updated Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa, migrants will be able to apply through two new pathways: 1. Skilled Work Experience Pathway Open to migrants in skilled roles (ANZSCO skill level 1 to 3) Requires at least 5 years of directly relevant work experience, including 2 years in New Zealand Applicants must have earned at least 1.1 times the median wage during their New Zealand work experience 2. Trades and Technician Pathway Available for migrants in specified trade and technician roles Must hold a relevant Level 4 or higher qualification Requires 4 years of post-qualification experience, including 18 months in New Zealand Work experience in New Zealand must be paid at or above the median wage These pathways aim to better reflect the value of practical skills and the contribution of migrants to New Zealand’s workforce. Certain occupations may have additional criteria to manage immigration risk and ensure the pathways target genuine skill shortages. Increased Points for New Zealand Qualifications Graduates with New Zealand university-level qualifications will benefit from higher points, making it easier to transition to residence. This change supports the International Education Plan for Growth by: Recognising the value of local qualifications Encouraging more international students to study in New Zealand Providing clearer pathways to residence for graduates The work experience requirement will be reduced from a maximum of 3 years to 2 years for most migrants. This adjustment makes the Skilled Migrant Category more internationally competitive and improves New Zealand’s ability to attract and retain top talent. Currently, migrants need to meet increased wage thresholds when applying for residence. From August 2026, this will change. Migrants will only need to: Maintain the same median wage rate throughout their required period of New Zealand work experience No longer meet higher wage thresholds when applying for residence These immigration changes are part of the Government’s wider Going for Growth programme, which is aimed at strengthening New Zealand’s workforce and economy. Alongside updates to the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa, the programme also focuses on refining the Accredited Employer Work Visa, improving education and training outcomes, and supporting young job seekers into employment or further training. The changes to the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa will take effect in August 2026. More detailed guidance will be released closer to the implementation date. Employers and migrants should begin preparing now to understand how these updates may affect their workforce and residence plans. Talk to our team today!
