From mid-2026, the Zealand Government is implementing major updates to the Skilled Migrant Category residency points system.
All of these updates are beneficial to prospective migrants and will make it easier and quicker to move to New Zealand and obtain a resident visa
What is changing in the Skilled Migrant points system in 2026
From August 2026, several updates will make it easier for skilled migrants and international graduates to build a future in New Zealand.
Recognising New Zealand qualifications
Graduates with New Zealand university-level qualifications will now receive higher points, making the transition from study to residence more straightforward. This change aligns with the International Education Plan for Growth, highlighting the value of local qualifications and strengthening New Zealand’s appeal to international students. To claim points for a postgraduate qualification, applicants must also hold an undergraduate degree.
Streamlined work experience requirements
For most skilled migrant pathways, the required New Zealand work experience will reduce from up to three years to a maximum of two. This shift makes our Skilled Migrant Category more competitive internationally, helping attract and retain top talent.
Simplified wage rules
Migrants will no longer need to meet a higher wage threshold when applying for residence. Instead, they’ll simply need to maintain the median wage throughout their required period of New Zealand work experience.
These updates sit within the Government’s wider Going for Growth programme, which also focuses on refining the Accredited Employer Work Visa, improving education outcomes, and supporting young job seekers into training and employment.
Already in NZ? Contact us!
Still overseas? Get your eligibility assessment!
Summary table of upcoming changes
| Points | Current SMC settings | Length of NZ work experience to reach 6 points | New SMC settings | Length of NZ work experience to reach 6 points |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | Qualification: Doctoral degree Registration: Income: |
You do not need to claim points from work experience. | Qualification: Doctoral degree or New Zealand master’s degree Registration: Income: |
You do not need to claim points from work experience. |
| 5 | Qualification: Master’s degree Registration: |
1 year | Qualification: Master’s degree gained outside New Zealand, New Zealand bachelor’s degree, honours degree, post-graduate diploma or post-graduate certificate Registration: |
1 year |
| 4 | Qualification: Honours degree, post-graduate diploma Registration: Income: |
2 years | Qualification: Honours degree, post-graduate diploma gained outside New Zealand, bachelor’s degree gained outside New Zealand and post-graduate certificate Registration: Income: |
1.5 years |
| 3 | Qualification: Bachelor’s degree or post-graduate certificate Registration: Income: |
3 years | Registration: New Zealand recognised registration in a specified occupation, requiring at least 2 years’ training Income: |
2 years |
| Does not apply | Wage assessment
Relevant wage rate assessed at start of required New Zealand work experience and at residence application. |
Does not apply | Wage assessment
Removed requirement for relevant wage to be met when applying for residence. Instead, relevant wage rate must be maintained throughout the required period of NZ work experience through to residence. |
Does not apply |
Already in NZ? Contact us!
Still overseas? Get your eligibility assessment!
