New Zealand's Skilled Migrant Visa Points Explained (2024)
New Zealand’s Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa now uses a streamlined points system. To apply, you must score at least 6 points from a single primary category (qualification, income, or occupational registration), and you can optionally add up to 3 points from New Zealand skilled work experience.
Primary Points Categories (Choose One)
- Occupational Registration: Registration requiring at least 6 years of training = 6 points. Other levels: 5, 4, or 3 points depending on training duration.
- Qualification: Doctoral (6 points), Master's (5), Postgrad Diploma (4), or Bachelor's (3).
- Income: If your skilled job offer pays 3x NZ’s median wage, that’s 6 points. Lesser earnings scale down to 4 or 3 points if you're earning 2x or 1.5x median wage.
| Category | Requirement | Points |
|---|---|---|
| Occupational Registration | 6+ years training | 6 |
| Qualification | Doctoral degree | 6 |
| Income | 3× median wage | 6 |
Skilled Work Experience in New Zealand
Add 1 point per year of skilled work in NZ, up to a maximum of 3 points. This can only be added after earning at least 3 points from a primary category.
Am I Eligible?
- Must be under 56 years of age
- Have a skilled job or offer from an accredited employer in New Zealand
- Job must be full-time and meet ANZSCO level and wage requirements
- Meet English, health, and character standards
Next Steps
If your total reaches 6 or more points, you may submit an Expression of Interest (EOI). Immigration NZ will invite eligible candidates to apply for residency based on their ranking.
Use this tool to see if you’re ready or what you may need to work on—like gaining more experience or increasing your income. And remember, a qualified immigration adviser can help you plan and submit the strongest possible application.
Gathering Documents
Before lodging an EOI, prepare evidence such as educational transcripts, professional licenses, and salary records. Having digital copies ready speeds up the verification process once you receive an invitation to apply. Employers may also need to provide letters confirming your job title and pay rate.
Understanding the Timeline
Most applicants spend several months collecting paperwork and waiting for invitations. Factor this into your relocation plans so you’re not caught off guard by delays. After submitting your full application, Immigration New Zealand will run health and background checks, which can take additional weeks.
Example Points Scenario
Imagine an engineer with a master’s degree who earns twice the median wage. The qualification yields five points and the income another four, but because only one primary category counts, they start with five. After two years of skilled work in New Zealand they add two more points for a total of seven, clearing the threshold. The calculator helps you explore similar combinations to see what mix of credentials or salary levels will push you over six points.
Improving a Low Score
If your tally falls short, consider pathways to boost it. Pursuing a higher qualification, negotiating a pay rise to meet a wage threshold, or obtaining a recognized occupational license can all raise the count. Some applicants take interim jobs that qualify for New Zealand experience points before seeking a long‑term role that matches their training.
Documentation Tips
Gathering evidence early prevents delays. Scan diplomas, syllabi, and professional registrations in case authorities request detailed transcripts. Wage claims usually require payslips and an employment contract, so confirm these documents list hours and salary clearly. Keeping organized folders or cloud storage shortcuts streamlines submissions when the invitation arrives.
Policy Changes and Disclaimers
Immigration rules evolve. Points allocations or eligibility requirements may shift with labor market demands or government priorities. Treat this tool as an educational guide rather than official advice, and verify the latest criteria on New Zealand’s immigration website or with a licensed adviser before making major decisions.