Skilled Migrant Residence Visa

The Skilled Migrant Residence Visa is designed for individuals whose skills and qualifications are in demand. Successful applicants—and their partners and dependent children (aged 24 or under)—gain the right to live, work and study in New Zealand on a permanent basis.

Eligibility at a glance

To be considered, you must:
  • Score at least 6 points from one or more of:

    • Recognised qualifications (3–6 points)

    • New Zealand occupational registration (3–6 points)

    • Income level (3–6 points)

    • Skilled work experience in NZ (1 point per year, up to 3 points)

  • Have a suitable job or job offer:

    • Full-time/permanent role, a 12-month fixed-term contract, or

    • A minimum six-month services contract with an accredited NZ employer (plus one year’s prior NZ skilled work)

  • Be 55 or younger on application date

  • Provide complete documentation—incomplete applications risk decline without refund

Got Any Questions?

Our experienced immigration specialists can make all the difference, talk to us about your matter with ease and let us assist you in navigating to a successful outcome.

How the points system works

CategoryPoints available
Qualifications3–6
Occupational registration3–6
Income (against median wage)3–6
NZ skilled work experience1–3 (max)

For up-to-date income thresholds and full details,  Speak to our team.

Application requirements

  • Identity
    – One passport-style photo
    – Copy of your passport’s personal details page

  • Health
    – Full medical exam + chest X-ray
    – Children under 11: only a medical exam; ages 11–14 also require an X-ray

  • Character
    – Police certificates from every country you’ve lived in for 12+ months over the past 10 years (applicants 17+)

  • English proficiency
    – Evidence via citizenship, previous study/qualifications or an approved test (valid within two years)
    – Partners/dependants 16+ must also meet or prepay for language tuition

Employment & Registration

    • Job criteria
      – Minimum 30 hours/week
      – ANZSCO Level 1–3 roles at or above the median wage, or
      – ANZSCO Level 4–5 roles at 1.5× the median wage

    • Occupational registration
      – Claim 3–6 points for occupations requiring formal NZ registration
      – Include proof of your registration authority and any compliance certificates

Ready to make New Zealand your home?

Contact Prestige Legal Group for expert guidance through every step of your Skilled Migrant Residence Visa application.