New Zealand Skilled Migrant Visa Options

Are you considering a new life in New Zealand—a country renowned for its quality of life, natural beauty, and growing economy? For skilled professionals and tradespeople, New Zealand offers several visa pathways to live and work, and potentially gain permanent residency. However, the application process is far from straightforward. With evolving immigration policies, complex eligibility requirements, and strict compliance obligations, submitting an incomplete or incorrect application can have serious consequences. That’s why at Intergate Emigration, our licensed Immigration Advisers provide expert guidance to help you navigate these pathways effectively and avoid costly errors.

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1. Skilled Migrant Category (SMC)

The Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) is New Zealand’s flagship residence visa for skilled workers. It is designed for individuals who can contribute to New Zealand’s economy and fill critical skill gaps. This pathway operates on a points-based system that takes into account your qualifications, occupational registration, your income earned in New Zealand as well as your New Zealand work experience.

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Key Requirements:

• Minimum of 6 points under the new SMC framework
• A skilled job or job offer from an accredited New Zealand employer
• Recognised qualifications and/or relevant work experience
• English language proficiency
• Good health and character

Application Process:

1. Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)
2. If selected, receive an invitation to apply (ITA)
3. Submit a residence application with supporting documents

Common Pitfalls:

• Misunderstanding how points are calculated under the new system
• Submitting an EOI for New Zealand without evidence to support claims
• Failing to have qualifications recognised or missing English language proof
• Applying without fully understanding job role eligibility

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2. New Zealand Green List Pathways

To address chronic skill shortages, New Zealand has created the Green List—a curated list of high-demand occupations. This list offers two accelerated pathways to residence in New Zealand for eligible candidates:

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a. New Zealand Green List - Straight to Residence

This fast-track pathway allows individuals in Tier 1 Green List occupations to apply immediately for residence in New Zealand if they have an eligible job offer or current employment with an accredited employer and meet Green List requirements.

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Eligible Professions Include:

• Medical professionals (doctors, nurses, midwives)
• Engineers
• ICT specialists
• Secondary school teachers

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b. New Zealand Green List - Work to Residence

This pathway applies to Tier 2 Green List occupations for New Zealand. Individuals must work in the role for 24 months before becoming eligible to apply for residence in New Zealand. In addition the Green List requirements must also be met.

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Eligible Roles Include:

• Early childhood educators
• Construction supervisors
• Civil and electrical trades
• Certain science and technician roles

Key Risks:

• Confusing job titles with Green List roles without verifying role-specific criteria
• Working for a non-accredited employer, which disqualifies eligibility
• Changes to role or job loss during the required 24-month period

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3. Sector-Specific Work to Residence Pathways

In addition to the Green List, New Zealand has introduced Work to Residence pathways for specific industries experiencing acute shortages:

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a. Care Workforce Work to Residence in New Zealand

Available to care workers in eligible roles who are paid at or above the Level 4 rate under the Care and Support Workers Pay Equity Settlement. Applicants must work continuously for 24 months in an eligible position under an AEWV.

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b. Transport Sector Work to Residence in New Zealand

Open to heavy vehicle drivers, bus drivers, and certain freight and transport workers.

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Applicants Must:

• Be employed by an accredited employer
• Hold an AEWV
• Meet work duration and wage requirements

Frequent Mistakes:

• Assuming eligibility without checking wage or job title conditions
• Inadequate documentation of employment history and salary
• Failing to maintain valid AEWV status during the qualifying period

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4. Accredited Employer Work Visa for New Zealand (AEWV)

The AEWV is a work visa that forms the foundation of many residence pathways. It is essential for those aiming for Green List or sector-specific Work to Residence options.

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Requirements:

• Job offer from an accredited New Zealand employer
• Full-time employment in a role paying at least the minimum wage and also market related
• The applicant must be suitably qualified for the role
• Meet health, character, and English requirements in certain cases

Red Flags:

• Taking up employment with a non-accredited employer
• Ignoring salary thresholds or role definitions
• Submitting a visa application without required evidence (e.g., employment contract, qualifications)

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Why Work with Intergate Emigration?

Immigration to New Zealand involves more than just filling out forms. Regulations change often, eligibility criteria can be confusing, and immigration officers require clear, verifiable documentation. Mistakes can lead to refusal, wasted money, and lost time.

At Intergate Emigration, our licensed Immigration Advisers provide:

• A thorough eligibility assessment based on your background and goals
• Clear advice on the best visa strategy for your situation
• End-to-end support, from document preparation to submission and follow-ups
• Ongoing updates and compliance checks throughout the process

Our expertise helps you avoid pitfalls, reduce the risk of visa declines, and improve your chances of success.