LIA REGISTERED · NEW ZEALANDRESIDENCE VISASkilled Migrant Category Advisers in New Zealand
New Zealand's Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) is a points-based residence visa stream for skilled workers with a job offer or skilled employment in New Zealand. Points are awarded for age, skilled employment in New Zealand, qualifications, and work experience. Applications are submitted as an Expression of Interest (EOI) and selected by Immigration New Zealand.
The Skilled Migrant Category requires precise occupation classification, points calculation, and documentation. An LIA ensures your skills are correctly categorised under ANZSCO, your evidence of skilled employment is watertight, your qualification assessment is in order, and your EOI is submitted at the optimal time.
Skilled Migrant Category Advisers in New Zealand
LIA-registered advisers specialising in Skilled Migrant Category applications.
Frequently asked questions — Skilled Migrant Category
How many points do I need for Skilled Migrant Category?
The points threshold for Skilled Migrant Category selection varies. Historically, EOIs with 160+ points have been selected regularly, but the threshold has fluctuated. Points are awarded for: skilled employment in NZ (50–60 pts), qualifications (50–70 pts), age (up to 30 pts), bonus points for NZ work experience, NZ qualifications, and partner qualifications.
Do I need a job offer for Skilled Migrant Category?
Yes, from 2023 onwards. Immigration NZ requires skilled employment in New Zealand or a job offer in an eligible skilled occupation as a prerequisite for SMC. Job offers must be for skilled employment (ANZSCO skill level 1, 2, or 3) and from an accredited employer.
How long does Skilled Migrant Category processing take?
Processing times vary. After EOI selection, Immigration NZ issues an Invitation to Apply (ITA). Following ITA, a complete residence application is typically processed in 6–12 months. Your LIA will track progress and respond to any requests for information (RFI) promptly.
Can my family be included in my Skilled Migrant Category application?
Yes. Your partner and dependent children can be included in your SMC residence application. Your partner can gain open work rights as part of the application. Your LIA will advise on what documentation is required for each dependent family member.
What is an Expression of Interest (EOI) for SMC?
An EOI is the first step in the SMC process — you submit a profile to Immigration NZ's points pool. Immigration NZ selects EOIs from the pool based on points score (and sometimes by occupation). Once selected, you receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) and then submit a full residence application. Your LIA can advise on the optimal time to submit your EOI.
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