Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa — New Zealand

The Essential Skills Work Visa closed to new applications on 3 July 2022 and was replaced by the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) on 4 July 2022.

The Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa is a way to apply for permanent residence based on your skills.

Since 9 October 2023, Immigration New Zealand (INZ) has used a simplified 6-point system with a clear skills threshold, not the old competitive points-pool selection.

Purpose and scope

This visa provides a route to live and work in New Zealand as a resident once you meet the 6-point threshold — there is no cap on the number of people who can gain residence and no competing against other applicants' scores.

You need a skilled job or job offer from an accredited employer, then you claim points from one route:

• 3 to 6 points from one skill category — your New Zealand occupational registration, a qualification, or your income, plus
• up to 3 more points from skilled work experience in New Zealand, if you need them to reach 6

Most applicants need at least some skilled work experience in New Zealand to reach the 6-point threshold; a handful of high-scoring routes (for example, an income at least twice the median wage) can reach 6 points without it.

This is not a temporary work visa and doesn’t function like the former Essential Skills Work Visa (closed to new applications and replaced by the AEWV), which is only for temporary work rights.

Key structural features:

You’ll need to follow INZ’s process and provide the required forms, like Form INZ 1000 and Form INZ 1017, as specified in the application instructions.

Who this is for

This visa is for skilled workers wanting long-term residence in New Zealand, not just a temporary stay.

You should consider this category if you can reach 6 points under the current Skilled Migrant Category system and have a skilled job or job offer from an accredited employer.

It’s also for those who plan to live and work in New Zealand permanently and are prepared to submit an EOI, which INZ now checks automatically rather than assessing against a competing pool.

This pathway is distinct from family-based visas such as the Partner of a New Zealander Resident Visa or the Parent Resident Visa, which rely on relationship criteria rather than points.

It’s also different from the Investor 1 Resident Visa and the Entrepreneur Resident Visa, which focus on investment or business activity instead of skilled employment.

Program type

The Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa is a points-based permanent residence program.

It’s structured in two stages:

1. Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) — INZ runs an automated eligibility check, and there is no fee for this step.

2. Apply for residence and pay the fee once INZ issues your Invitation to Apply (ITA).

Selection depends only on meeting the 6-point threshold with a qualifying job — not on beating other applicants' scores or waiting for a periodic draw.

INZ controls the process and makes all final decisions.

Unlike temporary work categories, this program leads directly to resident status if approved.

You must follow INZ’s requirements and submit the correct forms as directed in the application guide.

Note: INZ has announced further changes to the Skilled Migrant Category taking effect 24 August 2026, including new Skilled Work Experience and Trades and Technician pathways alongside the existing points system — check the official INZ page for the current settings if you are applying around that date.

Applying under the Skilled Migrant Category requires strict documentation and correct sequencing.

Errors, missing approvals, or incomplete evidence can lead to refusal by Immigration New Zealand (INZ).

When to consult an advisor

Consult a licensed immigration adviser or immigration lawyer if you’ve had prior visa declines, incomplete documentation, or aren’t sure what approvals are needed.

Filing without all prerequisite steps completed can result in rejection.

Many applicants submit forms such as Form INZ 1000 or Form INZ 1017 before gathering full supporting evidence.

INZ doesn’t guarantee approval just because you meet basic criteria.

Get professional help if you:

• Previously held an former Essential Skills Work Visa (closed to new applications and replaced by the AEWV) and are unsure how it affects your Skilled Migrant application
• Are moving from another category such as the Entrepreneur Resident Visa or Investor 1 Resident Visa
• Plan to include family members who might otherwise qualify under the Partner of a New Zealander Resident Visa or Parent Resident Visa
• Aren’t sure whether a required labour certification or approval must be secured before filing

An adviser can make sure you file only after every mandatory step is complete.

Complex compliance issues

Skilled Migrant applications often fail due to missing evidence or incomplete prerequisite approvals.

INZ expects a fully documented file at submission.

Common compliance risks include:

You need to prepare all supporting documents before submitting your application.

This includes employment records, approvals, and any documentation required to support your eligibility.

Don’t expect to be able to submit extra evidence later.

INZ assesses what you provide at the time of filing.

Expert tips

Preparation shapes the strength of your application.

Start collecting documents before you complete any forms.

Follow this sequence:

1. Confirm whether labor certification or other approval is required.

2. Secure all prerequisite approvals.

3. Gather supporting evidence in full.

4. Complete the correct INZ forms accurately.

5. Review the entire file before submission.

The most common mistake: filing without required documentation or approvals.

INZ doesn’t issue approvals based on intent to provide documents later.

If you’re unsure about eligibility, required evidence, or category overlap with visas such as the Entrepreneur Resident Visa or Investor 1 Resident Visa, get professional guidance before submitting anything to INZ.

As a permanent resident under the Skilled Migrant category, you can live in New Zealand without time limits and take part in work and study.

Your status gives you stability, but you must meet Immigration New Zealand (INZ) requirements at the time you apply.

Living, working and studying

You can live in New Zealand indefinitely once INZ grants your resident visa.

You can also:

• Work for an accredited employer
• Accept or continue a job offer from an accredited employer
• Study in New Zealand without time restrictions

Your eligibility at the time of application must include:

• Being 55 years old or younger
• Working for, or holding a job offer from, an accredited employer
• Submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI)

INZ manages the full process and assesses your application using required forms, such as Form INZ 1000 and Form INZ 1017, where applicable.

The application cost starts from NZD $6,450.

Check the INZ fee schedule for the current amount before you apply.

Duration of stay

Your resident visa allows you to live, work, and study in New Zealand indefinitely.

There’s no fixed end date attached to your right to remain.

This indefinite stay differs from temporary visas such as the former Essential Skills Work Visa (closed to new applications and replaced by the AEWV), which limit how long you can remain.

It also differs from other residence categories, including the Partner of a New Zealander Resident Visa, Investor 1 Resident Visa, Entrepreneur Resident Visa, and Parent Resident Visa, each with its own criteria and process.

INZ issues your resident status once you meet all Skilled Migrant requirements and your application is approved.

You start by submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI) to Immigration New Zealand (INZ).

If INZ accepts your EOI, it issues an Invitation to Apply (ITA), and you must then lodge a complete residence application within the required timeframe.

Expression of interest (EOI)

First, confirm that you can claim enough points to submit an Expression of Interest.

If you can’t meet the points threshold, INZ will not progress your case.

The EOI stage requires you to:

• Assess your eligibility under the Skilled Migrant category
• Confirm you can claim the required points
• Submit your EOI through the INZ system

After you submit your EOI, INZ immediately notifies you whether you meet the basic requirements to proceed.

This stage doesn’t require you to upload full supporting documents.

You must ensure your claims are accurate.

If INZ later finds that your qualifications, employment, or other claims can’t be verified, it can decline your residence application.

The Skilled Migrant process is different from visas such as the former Essential Skills Work Visa (closed to new applications and replaced by the AEWV), Partner of a New Zealander Resident Visa, Investor 1 Resident Visa, Entrepreneur Resident Visa, and Parent Resident Visa, which don’t use an EOI pool.

Invitation to apply (ITA) and timelines

If INZ accepts your EOI, it issues an Invitation to Apply (ITA).

You can’t apply for residence without this formal invitation.

Once you receive your ITA, you must:

1. Gather all required supporting documents.

2. Complete the residence application form specified in your invitation.

3. Submit your application and pay the required fee in NZD.

You must submit your full application within 4 months of receiving your ITA.

If you miss this deadline, INZ may require you to submit a new EOI.

The “Who can apply” criteria determine what documents you must provide as proof.

This typically includes evidence supporting the points you claimed in your EOI.

Check the INZ fee schedule for current NZ$ amounts.

Submitting and tracking your application

You need to submit your residence application using the link provided in your ITA.

INZ processes applications only after you complete the form and pay the required fee.

If INZ requires specific forms, such as Form INZ 1000 or Form INZ 1017, you must complete them accurately and submit them as directed.

Use the correct version of each form and ensure all sections are complete.

Before submitting, confirm that you have:

• Included all required documents
• Completed every section of the form
• Paid the correct fee in NZ$

After submission, log in to your INZ account to check your application status.

INZ updates your file through this system, and you remain responsible for monitoring any requests for further information.

You must meet strict criteria for age, skilled employment, points, health, character, and English ability.

Immigration New Zealand (INZ) assesses each requirement before it grants residence under the Skilled Migrant category.

Core eligibility criteria

You qualify only if you meet all core thresholds at the time you apply.

You must:

• Be 55 years old or younger.
• Have an offer of, or already be working in, a full-time skilled job.
• Work for, or hold an offer from, an accredited employer.
• Claim at least 6 skilled resident points based on your skills and work in New Zealand.
• Meet health, character, and English standards.

Your job must be full-time and considered skilled.

INZ expects clear evidence that your role matches your qualifications and experience.

If former Essential Skills employment is part of your New Zealand work history, document it accurately. For current employer-supported work, check the AEWV rules.

Other residence pathways, such as the Partner of a New Zealander Resident Visa, Investor 1 Resident Visa, Entrepreneur Resident Visa, or Parent Resident Visa, have separate criteria and do not replace these Skilled Migrant requirements.

Points and age limits

Age and points work together as gatekeeping criteria.

You must be 55 or younger when you submit your application.

INZ does not waive this limit.

You also need at least 6 skilled resident points.

These points come from your skills and your work in New Zealand.

If you can’t reach 6 points, INZ will not approve your application.

Document your employment, qualifications, and work history carefully.

INZ may require supporting evidence through the appropriate residence application forms, such as Form INZ 1000 or Form INZ 1017, depending on your circumstances.

Health, character and language

INZ requires you to meet health, character, and English standards before it grants residence.

Health requirements

You need to be in good health.

INZ can request medical evidence to confirm that you meet this standard.

Character requirements

You must be of good character.

INZ assesses your background and may request police certificates or other records.

English language ability

You must speak and understand English.

This requirement ensures you can work and live in New Zealand without assistance.

If you fail to meet health, character, or English requirements, INZ will decline your application even if you meet the job, age, and points thresholds.

You need to prove your identity, skilled employment, qualifications, and your health and character. Immigration New Zealand (INZ) won’t assess your Skilled Migrant application without complete and current evidence in each category.

Identity and relationship evidence

You’ll need clear proof of who you are and who’s included in your application.

Identity documents:

• Copy of your passport or certificate of identity
• Birth certificate (sometimes an identity card is accepted)

If you’re including your partner or dependent children (aged 24 or younger), you must prove your relationship to them.

Relationship documents:

• Marriage certificate (if relevant)
• Birth certificates for dependent children
• Any official documents confirming your family relationship

INZ checks these documents closely. Details must match across passports, certificates, and your application forms, such as Form INZ 1000 or Form INZ 1017.

If you’ve held another visa—like an former Essential Skills Work Visa (closed to new applications and replaced by the AEWV), Partner of a New Zealander Resident Visa, Parent Resident Visa, Entrepreneur Resident Visa, or Investor 1 Resident Visa—your identity details should stay consistent with earlier records.

Qualifications and work evidence

You need to show you meet the skilled resident points threshold and that your job or offer qualifies as skilled employment.

Provide evidence of your skilled job or job offer:

• Signed employment contract(s)
• Contract work history, if relevant
• Proof of at least 12 months of skilled work experience in New Zealand if you’re claiming points for it

You must also submit proof of your qualifications.

Qualification documents:

• Qualification certificate
• Full course transcripts
• Degree certificate (if the final isn’t available, submit what you have)
• International Qualification Assessment (IQA) results, if required

You’ll also need evidence of English language ability if that’s required.

INZ expects your documents to directly support your claim of at least 6 skilled resident points. Unsupported claims can slow things down or lead to refusal.

Medical and police clearances

You must meet New Zealand’s health and character standards.

Medical requirements:

• Completed medical examination
• Chest X-ray evidence

INZ uses these results to check if you meet health standards for residence.

Character requirements:

• Police certificates from every relevant country
• Certificates need to be less than 6 months old at the time you apply

Here’s a summary:

Submit clear copies unless INZ asks for originals. Incomplete or expired clearances will delay your application or get it sent back.

You’ll pay a government fee and should expect a multi‑month assessment period. INZ sets the fees and decides how long your application takes depending on category and location.

Application fees

The current fee for the New Zealand Skilled Migrant visa is:

This fee rose from NZ$4,290 to NZ$6,450 when INZ updated its fee and levy table on 1 October 2024. There is no fee to submit the Expression of Interest (EOI); the NZ$6,450 charge applies when you lodge the full residence application after receiving your Invitation to Apply (ITA).

INZ can update fees at any time. Always check the INZ fee schedule or calculator for the exact amount before submitting.

You typically use Form INZ 1000 for your residence application and include required medical or supporting documents, sometimes using Form INZ 1017. The government fee doesn’t cover costs for medical exams, translations, or getting supporting records.

Fees differ for other residence categories:

• Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV); Essential Skills is closed
• Partner of a New Zealander Resident Visa
• Investor 1 Resident Visa
• Entrepreneur Resident Visa
• Parent Resident Visa

Check directly with INZ for the current fee for those categories.

Typical processing windows

INZ's resident visa wait-times page currently reports an average wait of 11 weeks for the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa, with 80% of applications completed within 4 months, updated weekly (as of July 2026).

This is faster than under the old points-pool system, reflecting the move to a non-competitive 6-point threshold with no cap on approvals. Add time before the resident-visa stage for any qualification assessment (NZQA), the EOI/ITA step, and gathering police and medical certificates.

Processing times depend on the specific Skilled Migrant category, the INZ office, and how complete your documents are.

INZ doesn’t guarantee a decision within a set number of days. If your forms are incomplete, evidence is missing, or employment documentation is unclear, expect delays.

Monitor current timeframes with INZ, especially if you’re relying on a temporary visa while waiting for residence.

Variations and verification

The processing times aren’t the same for every residence visa. The AEWV and categories like the Entrepreneur Resident Visa or Parent Resident Visa use different assessment frameworks and timelines.

Your case might take longer than the published average if INZ needs extra verification. That could mean reviewing employment claims, confirming qualifications, requesting updated medical info, or checking partnership or family evidence.

INZ handles all visa decisions. Fees and processing estimates can change without warning, so always check directly with INZ before submitting.

Most refusals happen because of missing documents, expired paperwork, or qualifications that don’t meet INZ standards. Submitting complete, current, and verifiable evidence on time helps avoid most issues.

Common reasons for refusal

INZ refuses applications if you don’t meet clear documentary or eligibility requirements.

Frequent issues include:

• Incomplete applications or missing evidence
• Police certificates older than 6 months at submission
• English test scores below the minimum
• Qualifications not on the New Zealand Qualifications Framework (NZQF) without an IQA
• Submitting your residence application after the 4‑month validity period of your Invitation to Apply (ITA)
• Incorrect or inconsistent identity details

Here’s a summary:

If you’ve held an former Essential Skills Work Visa (closed to new applications and replaced by the AEWV) or plan to move from visas like the Entrepreneur Resident Visa or Investor 1 Resident Visa, INZ reviews your Skilled Migrant application independently. Previous approvals don’t fix missing or weak evidence.

How to avoid delays

Delays usually come from avoidable errors.

Start with the official INZ checklist and make sure every required document is attached. Don’t expect INZ to chase you for missing evidence.

Check these steps:

1. Confirm your ITA is still valid.

2. Make sure your English test score meets the minimum.

3. Police certificates must be less than 6 months old.

4. Identity details should match across all forms and passports.

5. Overseas qualifications should be NZQF‑listed or supported by an IQA.

Use the right forms, like Form INZ 1000 or Form INZ 1017, and fill out every section.

If you include family under categories like Partner of a New Zealander Resident Visa or Parent Resident Visa, inconsistent identity or missing documents can hold up your entire Skilled Migrant application.

INZ only processes complete applications. Accuracy helps speed things up.

Document pitfalls

Document quality and consistency are as important as eligibility.

Common problems:

• Different spellings of your name
• Missing pages from identity documents
• Qualifications without NZQF recognition or IQA
• Police certificates older than 6 months

INZ checks identity details across passports, forms, and supporting evidence. Even small inconsistencies can slow things down.

For qualifications, if your degree isn’t on the NZQF, you need an IQA. Without it, INZ can’t confirm your points or eligibility.

Use this checklist before applying:

• ✅ Police certificates dated within 6 months
• ✅ English test results meet the minimum
• ✅ ITA submitted within 4 months
• ✅ Identity details match everywhere
• ✅ All required documents attached

INZ goes by what you provide. Missing or outdated documents weaken your application immediately.

Most Skilled Migrant Category applicants start on a temporary work visa, move to residence, then apply for citizenship once they meet residence and character requirements. INZ assesses each step separately, and you need the correct visa before moving forward.

Typical visa pathways

Usually, you begin with a temporary work visa. Before July 2022, some applicants held an Essential Skills Work Visa. Today, current employer-supported work generally uses the AEWV.

Common residence pathways:

• Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa
• Partner of a New Zealander Resident Visa
• Entrepreneur Resident Visa
• Investor 1 Resident Visa
• Parent Resident Visa

Each category has its own eligibility rules set by INZ. Health, character, and identity requirements apply every time.

Apply for residence using the correct INZ form, such as Form INZ 1000 when relevant. Always confirm the current form and eligibility rules with INZ before applying.

Next steps after residence

Once you have a Resident Visa, you must follow your visa conditions. These might include travel conditions or obligations tied to your job or investment.

To stay on track:

1. Update your contact details with INZ.

2. Meet any investment, employment, or business requirements tied to your visa.

3. Apply for a Permanent Resident Visa when you’re eligible.

For further residence or changes, you might need updated forms like Form INZ 1017, depending on your visa.

Citizenship isn’t automatic. Apply separately through the Department of Internal Affairs after meeting the residence and character requirements. Refer to official government sources for the latest eligibility, timeframes, and fees in NZ$.