The New Zealand government has unveiled significant changes to the Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) resident visa, introducing two new residence pathways aimed at retaining skilled workers and supporting long-term economic growth. These updates form part of the broader Going for Growth program and are designed to better reflect the value of practical skills and local qualifications.
New Residence Pathways
Skilled Work Experience pathway: Suitable for migrants in ANZSCO skill level 1–3 roles. Requires five years of relevant experience, including two years in New Zealand, earning at least 1.1 times the median wage.
Trades and Technician pathway: Suitable for specified trades/technician roles. Requires at least a level 4 qualification and four years of post-qualification experience, including 18 months in New Zealand, earning at least the median wage
Points system adjustments.
- Increased recognition of New Zealand university-level qualifications.
- Reduced New Zealand work experience requirement for some migrants (from three years to two years).
- Removal of increased wage requirement at residence application stage. Salary must be maintained throughout qualifying period.
Additional criteria & lists.
- Red List: Occupations in this list will be removed from new pathways.
- Amber List: Occupations in this list will have added eligibility criteria. The occupations listed here would not be eligible for trades/technician pathway.
- Full job lists and qualification tables to be published ahead of implementation.
New pathways and reduced experience requirements make it easier for skilled migrants to qualify for residence, especially those with practical experience or New Zealand qualifications. The changes improve long-term career and settlement prospects in New Zealand.
Employers also benefit from improved retention of skilled foreign workers through more accessible residence options. Having said that, employers should prepare to leverage these changes to strengthen workforce planning and retention strategies. Further details, including occupation-specific criteria, will be released in the lead-up to the August 2026 rollout.
This immigration update is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for legal or scenario-specific advice. Furthermore, it is important to note that immigration announcements are subject to sudden and unexpected changes. Readers are encouraged to reach out to Newland Chase for any case- or company-specific assessments.
