New Zealand Skilled Migrant CRM: six-point residence cases after the August 2026 changes
Track points from qualifications, income or occupational registration, skilled NZ work experience, wage settings and the Expression of Interest for every Skilled Migrant client.
What practitioners need to know in 2026
- Applicants need 6 points from one skill indicator (registration, qualification or income) plus points for skilled work in New Zealand.
- From 24 August 2026, the median wage that applies is the one in effect when the skilled work began, with a five-month grace period.
- Level 8 and 9 qualifications now need a supporting bachelor's degree; map roles to the National Occupation List.
From 24 August 2026 applicants only need to meet the median wage in effect when they started the skilled work, with a five-month grace period; Level 8-9 qualifications need a supporting bachelor's degree.
Official sourceThe immigration median wage rose to NZ$35.00/hr on 9 March 2026, affecting AEWV and partner / dependant income thresholds.
Official source47 more occupations were recognised under the NOL from 9 March 2026; map each client's role to the correct NOL code.
Official sourceProcess and documents
Skilled Migrant Category Resident
Skilled workers already in or offered NZ skilled jobs
- 1Score 6 points (qualification, income or registration)
- 2Meet NZ skilled-work and wage settings
- 3Submit Expression of Interest
- 4Invitation and residence application
- Valid passport (all pages)
- Passport-style photo (country specification)
- Skilled job offer or employment in NZ
- Skilled residence points evidence (qualification / income / registration)
- Degrees, transcripts and credential evaluation
- English test results (IELTS / PTE / TOEFL as accepted)
- Police certificates (every country lived 12+ months)
- Immigration medical exam (panel physician)
NZ Skilled Migrant visa compared with other options
| Visa | Best for | Sponsor / offer needed | Path to permanent residence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skilled Migrant Category Resident | Skilled workers already in or offered NZ skilled jobs | Skilled job offer / employment | Yes, residence |
| Green List Straight to Residence / Work to Residence | Workers in Green List shortage occupations | Yes, accredited employer | Yes, direct or after 2 years |
| Accredited Employer Work Visa | Workers with an accredited NZ employer | Yes, accredited employer | Possible via Skilled Migrant / Green List |
Frequently asked questions
How many points do I need for the Skilled Migrant Category?+
Six points, combining a skill indicator (occupational registration, qualification or income) with points for skilled work experience in New Zealand. Check immigration.govt.nz for the current points table.
What changed in August 2026?+
Wage settings were simplified so the median wage at the start of skilled work applies, with a five-month grace period after increases, and qualification rules were tightened for Level 8-9 qualifications.
Who can give New Zealand immigration advice?+
Licensed immigration advisers (Immigration Advisers Authority) and New Zealand lawyers, plus some exempt people. Others must not give immigration advice for New Zealand.
General information for practitioners, not legal advice. No government-form autofill or submission outside Canada.