Skilled Migrant Category (6 points) – What Employers, HR Professionals & Recruiters Should Know

The Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) Resident Visa remains a key residence pathway for attracting and retaining global talent in New Zealand. While the SMC itself is well-established, the updated 6-point system, introduced on 9 October 2023, has brought significant changes to how eligibility is assessed.

This points-based framework places greater emphasis on New Zealand-based skilled employment, qualifications, and occupational registration—making it crucial for employers and recruiters to understand the criteria their prospective hires must meet.

In this guide, we address the most frequently asked questions from employers and HR professionals to help you support skilled migrants effectively and stay ahead of immigration developments that impact your workforce planning.

How do applicants become eligible for the SMC with 6 points? 

They must claim points from at least one section from the blue box below. If they can get all 6 points from here, then they don’t need anything from the red box. However, if they are short of 6 points, the remaining points can come from the red box. Irrespective of where the points are claimed from, they must have a 'skilled' job offer (more on this later) from an Accredited New Zealand employer.  

Maximum points the blue box can give you: 6.  

Maximum points the red box can give you: 3.  

What is the processing timeframe for the SMC? 

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

Are there any mandatory base requirements ? 

Yes, there are age, character, health, and English requirements. Applicants must have a ‘skilled’ job offer from an accredited employer as well.

What exactly is a ‘skilled’ job offer? 

Skilled’ is a relatively complex assessment, but in simple terms, it means an applicant’s role is paid at least:  

1) The median wage for occupations classified at ANZSCO skill level 1-3, or  

2) 1.5x median wage for occupations classified at ANZSCO skill level 4-5.

Applicants must also be suitably qualified for the role through relevant experience or relevant qualifications.  

Is there an age limit? 

Yes, 55 years.  

Do applicants need to have studied in NZ to claim academic qualification points? 

No, they can use their overseas qualification if 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). 

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