New Zealand

New Zealand Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa

Policy overviewReviewed 2026-09-03

For people with skilled employment or an offer in New Zealand who qualify through the points-based, skilled-work-experience, or trades-and-technician pathway.

Core requirements

AgeRequired

The principal applicant must be aged 55 or younger when applying for residence.

employmentRequired

A qualifying skilled job or job offer in New Zealand with an accredited employer and the applicable pay requirement is generally required.

pathwayRequired

One of the points-based, skilled-work-experience, or trades-and-technician pathways must be met; their points, qualification, pay and New Zealand experience rules differ.

EnglishRequired

The principal applicant must meet the English requirement for skilled residence.

Official sources

General educational information only, not personalized immigration or legal advice. Requirements can change; confirm them with the responsible government authority before acting. Next scheduled review: 2026-10-03.