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Skilled Migrant Category resident visa

Permanent residence

A simplified six-point system introduced in 2023. Points come from qualifications, professional registration or income, and six points with a skilled job offer secures residence.

Who it is for. People with a skilled job or offer in New Zealand and a qualification, registration or income that scores enough points.

Researched, not independently verifiedmedium confidenceReviewed 20 September 2026

Worth knowing. The six-point system replaced the older expression-of-interest points table in 2023. Points come from one of three sources — qualification, registration or income — plus skilled work experience in New Zealand.

Fact
Income required
Not stated
Savings required
Not stated
Investment required
None
Application fee
NZ$6,450
Processing time
90–365 days
Permission lasts

Not renewable

Permanent residence
Not via this route
Citizenship
After 5 years
Remote work not coveredLocal employment allowedFamily can joinPolice certificateMedical exam
Apply through the authority, not through us: www.immigration.govt.nz (opens in a new tab)

Sources

Researched, not independently verifiedmedium confidenceReviewed 20 September 2026

Worth knowing. The six-point system replaced the older expression-of-interest points table in 2023. Points come from one of three sources — qualification, registration or income — plus skilled work experience in New Zealand.

Check this against

Reference dataset, compiled 20 September 2026. This is a compiled reference dataset. Every figure is drawn from official material and cited, but no record has been signed off by a named editor working through the review console, so nothing here is marked verified. Immigration rules change without notice and consulates apply them differently. Check the linked authority before you act on anything. This site is not legal advice.