Navigating New Skilled Migrant Category Points System in New Zealand

New Zealand is a great place for skilled people looking to move abroad. They have a visa called the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa (SMC) that makes it easier for skilled people to become residents. 

This visa point system has been updated by the government to make it simpler. We’ll explain how this visa works and the changes that have been made.

Understanding the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa

The Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa serves as a gateway to permanent residency in New Zealand for individuals possessing high-level skills or qualifications. This includes professionals with extensive training, doctorate holders, and those earning significantly above the median wage. The overarching aim of this visa is to address medium-to long-term skill shortages that are difficult to fulfill domestically.

Introducing the New SMC Points System

The New Zealand government revealed a new SMC points system in October 2023 in an attempt to improve the immigration process’s efficiency and clarity. Departing from the previous model, which necessitated a daunting 180-point threshold, the new system adopts a more straightforward approach, requiring applicants to accumulate a minimum of 6 points. This pivotal shift aims to simplify the visa application process, facilitating smoother transitions for skilled migrants.

Key Features of the New SMC Points System

1. Simplified Pathway to Residency

The new SMC points system offers a clear and transparent route to residency for eligible skilled migrants, eliminating the complexities associated with the previous model.

2. Flexible Criteria

Applicants can accrue points across multiple criteria, including income, qualifications, occupational registration, and New Zealand work experience, providing greater flexibility and accessibility.

3. Updated Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the SMC visa, applicants must attain a minimum of 6 points based on income, qualifications, or occupational registration, in addition to meeting standard criteria for health, character, and English proficiency.

Navigating the 6-Point System: Earning Eligibility

The streamlined points system empowers applicants to secure residency through various avenues, each offering a distinct pathway to meeting the 6-point threshold. Let’s explore the primary categories for accruing points:

• Income-Based Points

Points are awarded based on income levels relative to the median wage, catering to skilled individuals across diverse trades and occupations. To qualify, applicants must earn between 1.5 to 3 times the median wage, with higher earnings translating to a higher points allocation.

• Occupational Registration Points

Recognizing the specialized skills required for certain professions, this category rewards applicants based on the level of occupational training mandated for registration in New Zealand. Points range from 3 to 6, contingent upon the duration of training required.

• Qualification-Based Points

Points in this category are determined by the equivalence of applicants’ qualifications to New Zealand standards, as assessed by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA). Depending on the level of qualification, applicants can accrue between 3 to 6 points.

• Additional Points

For applicants unable to attain 6 points through the aforementioned categories, supplementary points can be earned through skilled work experience in New Zealand. Each year of full-time work experience yields 1 point, up to a maximum of 3 points, provided the wage threshold is met.

Image Source: 

https://www.mbie.govt.nz/immigration-and-tourism/immigration/immigration-consultations/future-of-the-skilled-migrant-category/simplified-points-system-in-depth

How to apply for the SMC Resident Visa?

Embarking on the journey towards residency through the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa entails a structured and meticulous application process. Let’s outline the key steps involved:

Step 1: Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)

Initiate the process by submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI), wherein you showcase your eligibility based on the new points-based system. Detail your skills, qualifications, and health status, emphasizing how they contribute to your points total.

Step 2: EOI Assessment and Selection

Following submission, your EOI undergoes evaluation based on the points claimed, with a minimum requirement of 6 points. Successful EOIs are selected from a pool of applicants, indicating potential eligibility for the visa.

Step 3: Invitation to Apply

Upon selection, you receive an invitation to formally apply for the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa, marking a significant milestone in the process.

Step 4: Submitting the Visa Application

Proceed to submit your visa application, furnishing comprehensive documentation to substantiate your eligibility. Ensure accuracy and completeness in all submitted materials, reflecting your qualifications, experience, and other pertinent details.

Step 5: Processing and Decision

Your application undergoes meticulous assessment by Immigration New Zealand, who evaluate various factors to determine your suitability for the visa. Processing times vary but typically range from 6 to 8 weeks for well-documented applications.

Step 6: Visa Approval and Residency

Upon approval, you are granted the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa, paving the way for permanent residency in New Zealand. This visa affords you the freedom to live, work, and study in the country indefinitely, heralding a new chapter of opportunity and growth.

Partnering with Immigration Chambers

It can be difficult to navigate the complexities of immigration law, but at Immigration Chambers, we specialize in making the process easier to understand and pointing you in the direction of the best visa options.

Our team of Accredited Immigration Lawyers and Licensed Immigration Advisers boasts extensive experience in all facets of immigration law, ensuring you receive expert guidance tailored to your unique circumstances.