FAQs: Skilled Migrant Category Structure with 6 points

The Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) is a key residence pathway for individuals whose skills and experience are valuable to New Zealand’s economy. This visa is designed for professionals who have a job or a job offer in skilled employment, with a salary at or above the median wage, and who can demonstrate their potential to settle and contribute long-term to the country.

If your role isn’t on the Green List, the SMC could still offer you a route to residence—especially if you bring strong qualifications, work experience, or occupational registration. Below are some frequently asked questions to help you understand how this points-based system works and whether it could be the right pathway for you.

How are you eligible for SMC with 6 points?

You must claim points from at least one section from the blue box below. If you can get all 6 points from here, then you don’t need anything from the red box. However, if you are short of 6 points, the remaining points can come from the red box. Irrespective of where you claim points from, you must have a ‘skilled’ job offer from an Accredited NZ employer. 

Maximum points the blue box can give you: 6.

Maximum points the red box can give you: 3.

What is the processing time frame?

Average wait time for SMC is 3 months. Most applications are completed within 6 months. 

Are there any mandatory base requirements for the 6-point SMC, regardless of points?

Yes, age, character, health, and English requirements. Also, you must have a ‘skilled’ job offer from an accredited employer.

What exactly is a ‘skilled’ job offer?

‘Skilled’ is a relatively complex assessment, but in simple words, it means your role is paid at least:  

1) the median wage for occupations classified at ANZSCO skill levels 1-3, or  

2) 1.5 times the median wage for occupations classified at ANZSCO skill levels 4-5. 

You must also be suitably qualified for the role via relevant experience or relevant qualifications. 

Is there an age limit?

Yes, 55 years. 

Do I need to have studied in NZ to claim points for qualification?

No, you can use overseas qualification as long as the equivalency to the required level at the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQF) can be established, either through IQA (International Qualification Assessment) or if it's on Appendix 3 (List of Qualifications Exempt from Assessment).