New Zealand Skilled Migration

The Skilled Migrant Category is a points system based on factors such as age, work experience, your qualifications, and an offer of skilled employment. You must also be aged 55 or under, and meet English language, health, and character requirements.

How it works

1. Self assessment

• Check you meet the requirements and calculate your points

2. Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)

• Note the fees and offices information
• Submit an EOI online

3. Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA)

• If you have 160 points or more you’ll be selected from the EOI pool and may be sent an ITA

4. Submit a resident application

• Note the fees and offices information
• Submit your resident application on the form we provide you with

5. Receive your visa

• If successful, you’ll be issued a resident visa

Qualifications not recognized

If you’re claiming points for your qualifications they need to either be on the List of Qualifications Exempt from Assessment or have been assessed by NZQA.

Work experience not comparable

If you’re claiming points for work experience it must be in the same field as your qualification and job/job offer. If you don’t have a job or job offer then this experience also needs to be in a comparable labor market, in an occupation on the Long Term Skill Shortage List or for a multinational company.

Bonus point requirements not met

To claim work experience bonus points you need to meet the strict requirements outlined on the Long Term Skill Shortage List.