Big Changes to the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa in August 2026
- Ashish Barua
- Sep 28
- 3 min read
The Government has announced major updates to the Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) Resident Visa. These changes will help employers retain skilled workers, support long-term economic growth, and make the pathway to residence clearer and fairer for migrants.
The changes will come into effect in August 2026.
Key Highlights
• Two new residence pathways under the Skilled Migrant Category• More points for New Zealand university-level qualifications• Reduced New Zealand work experience requirements• Removal of the higher wage test at the residence stage• New occupation lists (Red and Amber) to manage risks• Commitment to supporting international students with stronger study-to-residence pathways
The Two New Residence Pathways
Skilled Work Experience Pathway
For migrants in skilled roles (ANZSCO skill level 1 to 3)
At least 5 years of directly relevant work experience
Must include 2 years in New Zealand at 1.1 times the median wage
Trades and Technician Pathway
For migrants in specified trades or technician roles
Must hold a Level 4 or higher qualification
At least 4 years of post-qualification skilled work experience
Must include 18 months in New Zealand at or above the median wage
A full list of eligible trades and technician roles will be published closer to August 2026.
Boost for New Zealand Graduates
The changes also include increased points for New Zealand university-level qualifications, making it easier for graduates to transition to residence.
A master’s or doctoral degree completed in New Zealand will give you 6 points straight away
You do not need to claim any points from work experience if you hold these qualifications
Applicants with postgraduate diplomas, honours, or certificates must also hold an undergraduate degree to claim points
These updates support the Government’s International Education Plan for Growth, recognising the value of local qualifications and encouraging more international students to choose New Zealand
This creates a clearer and more reliable study-to-residence pathway for international students.
Other Important Changes
• Reduced NZ work experience requirements – most migrants will now need a maximum of 2 years, instead of 3, to qualify for residence• Simplified wage rules – no more requirement to meet a higher wage at the residence stage. Instead, you just need to maintain the median wage during your work experience period• Occupation lists
Red list: Occupations excluded from the new pathways
Amber list: Occupations with extra requirements, not eligible for the Trades and Technician pathway
Job or Job Offer and Other Requirements
To be granted residence under the Skilled Migrant Category, applicants must still:
Hold current skilled employment in New Zealand, or have a skilled job offer at or above the required wage rate
Meet standard residence requirements for health, character, and English language
Why These Changes Matter
• Migrants will have clearer, fairer, and faster pathways to residence• Employers will gain more certainty to retain skilled staff long term• New Zealand will become more competitive in attracting global talent• Graduates, tradespeople, and experienced workers all benefit from targeted pathways
What You Should Do
If you are considering applying for residence under the Skilled Migrant Category, these changes could make your pathway easier and more achievable. With implementation in August 2026, now is the right time to plan and prepare.
Stay tuned and follow us for further updates. We are committed to supporting our migrant community. For any queries, feel free to get in touch.
Ash Immigration Advisers NZ
Ash – Licensed Immigration Adviser (IAA #202400914)
📞 +64 27 334 8988
Comments