Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa New Zealand
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
Other changes introduced to SMC
Changes to this category include:
Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa Eligibility
The Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) Resident Visa is a pathway to New Zealand residency for skilled workers who wish to live and work in the country permanently. To be eligible for this visa, applicants need to meet certain criteria and demonstrate their suitability as skilled migrants. The key eligibility requirements for the SMC Resident Visa are as follows:
- Age: Applicants must be 55 years old or younger at the time of application.
- Points-Based System: The SMC Resident Visa operates on a points-based system. Applicants are awarded points based on factors such as age, work experience, qualifications, and job offers in New Zealand.
- Skilled Occupation: Applicants must have relevant skills and work experience in an occupation that is listed on New Zealand’s Long Term Skill Shortage List (LTSSL) or the Regional Skill Shortage List (RSSL). Having a job offer in New Zealand that aligns with their skills is advantageous.
- Health and Character: All applicants and their dependents must meet health and character requirements. They may need to undergo medical examinations and provide police certificates from the countries they have lived in.
- English Language Proficiency: Applicants need to demonstrate English language proficiency by providing evidence of their English language skills, such as achieving the required score in an approved English language test.
- Expression of Interest (EOI): To apply for the SMC Resident Visa, applicants must first submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) to Immigration New Zealand. The EOI outlines their qualifications, work experience, and other relevant details. Based on the points obtained in the EOI, applicants may be invited to apply for residency.
- Invitation to Apply (ITA): If the applicant’s EOI is selected from the pool, they will receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for the SMC Resident Visa. They will have to submit a complete application with all the necessary supporting documents.
It’s important to note that meeting the eligibility criteria does not guarantee approval of the visa. The Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa is a highly competitive process, and applicants with higher points are more likely to receive an ITA.
How many points do you need for New Zealand Skilled Migrant Category resident visa?
The number of points required for the Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) Resident Visa in New Zealand can vary and is subject to change based on the immigration policies in effect at the time of application. As of my last update in September 2021, the minimum points required for an applicant to be eligible to apply for the SMC Resident Visa was 160 points.
It’s essential to understand that meeting the minimum points threshold does not guarantee an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for the visa. The selection of applicants from the pool is based on a ranking system, and those with higher points have a better chance of receiving an ITA.
The points are awarded based on various factors, including age, work experience, qualifications, job offers, and English language proficiency. Achieving higher points can enhance an applicant’s chances of being selected and receiving an invitation to apply for New Zealand residency.
However, immigration policies and points requirements can change over time, so it is crucial to refer to the official website of Immigration New Zealand for the most up-to-date information on the points system and eligibility criteria for the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa.
What is skilled migrant visa in New Zealand?
The Skilled Migrant Visa in New Zealand is a pathway to residency designed for skilled workers who wish to live and work in the country permanently. It operates on a points-based system where applicants are assessed based on factors such as age, work experience, qualifications, job offers, and English language proficiency. To be eligible, applicants must have skills and experience in an occupation listed on New Zealand’s Long Term Skill Shortage List (LTSSL) or the Regional Skill Shortage List (RSSL). The minimum required points may vary and meeting the threshold does not guarantee selection; higher points increase the chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for residency.
What Are the Required Documents for a Skilled Migrant Category?
The application for a Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) visa in New Zealand requires the submission of various documents to support your eligibility and claims for points. While the specific documents may vary depending on individual circumstances, here are some of the common required documents:
- Passport: A valid passport with a minimum of six months validity from the intended travel date to New Zealand.
- Expression of Interest (EOI): If you are applying through the Expression of Interest process, you need to submit the completed EOI form with all the relevant details.
- Qualifications: Certified copies of your academic qualifications, degrees, diplomas, and transcripts. These should be assessed and recognized by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) if obtained outside New Zealand.
- Work Experience: Documents proving your work experience in the skilled occupation, including reference letters from past employers, contracts, or pay stubs.
- Job Offer (if applicable): If you have a job offer in New Zealand, provide a written employment offer from your prospective employer.
- English Language Proficiency: Evidence of English language proficiency through approved English language test results (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL) if required.
- Character Documents: Police clearance certificates from all countries where you have lived for 12 months or more since turning 17.
- Medical Examination: Proof of a medical examination conducted by an authorized panel physician.
- Partnership and Dependent Information: If applicable, documents related to your partner or dependent children, such as passports, birth certificates, and relationship evidence.
- Skilled Employment: Evidence to support your claim for points under skilled employment, including job descriptions, employment contracts, and other relevant documents.
- Financial Evidence: Proof of sufficient funds to settle in New Zealand if required.
It’s essential to review the specific document checklist provided by Immigration New Zealand and ensure that all required documents are complete and certified before submitting your application. The information and requirements can change over time, so it’s advisable to refer to the official Immigration New Zealand website for the most up-to-date and accurate details.
How Long Can I Stay on a Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa?
On a Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa in New Zealand, you can stay indefinitely as a permanent resident. This visa allows skilled workers to live and work in New Zealand for the long term, offering a pathway to settle in the country permanently. With no specific time restrictions, you have the freedom to enjoy the benefits of residency, such as access to healthcare, education, and the opportunity to apply for citizenship after meeting the eligibility criteria. It’s an excellent opportunity for individuals seeking stability and a new chapter in their lives, making New Zealand their home for years to come.
Can I Include My Family on a Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa Application?
Yes, you can include your family on a Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa application for New Zealand. As the main applicant, you have the option to include your partner and dependent children in the visa application. To do so, you’ll need to provide all the necessary documentation and evidence to support their eligibility. This includes passports, birth certificates, relationship evidence, and other relevant documents. Inclusion of family members allows them to join you in New Zealand and enjoy the benefits of permanent residency. Ensure to meet all the requirements and consult with immigration authorities for a smooth application process.
