Upcoming Changes to the Skilled Migrant Category

Currently, the SMC operates on a six-point system that determines applicants’ eligibility to apply through:

1. New Zealand occupational registration, a recognised qualification or high income; or

2. Skilled work experience in New Zealand, in combination of the above factors.

With the recent changes announced, migrants can soon have additional pathways under the SMC:

• Skilled work experience pathway – migrants in ANZSCO skill levels 1 to 3 roles, with at least five years of directly relevant work experience (including two years in New Zealand paid at least 1.1 times the median wage); and

• Trades and technician pathway – migrants in specified trades or technician roles who hold a relevant Level 4 or higher qualification, plus at least four years of post-qualification experience (including 18 months in New Zealand paid at or above the median wage).

In addition to the pathways, INZ will also implement changes to the current system, including:

• Allocating more points for New Zealand university-level qualifications;
• Modestly reducing requirements for skilled work experience in New Zealand (from a maximum of three years to two years) under some pathways;
• Removing the requirement to have an increased wage rate at the time of applying for residence, provided applicants maintain the median wage rate throughout the relevant period of New Zealand work experience.

We recognise the strong public interest in ensuring that workers in New Zealand are able to communicate effectively and do not compromise service delivery. However, the reality is that tradespeople require a different level of English compared to, for instance, healthcare professionals who regularly interact with vulnerable patients.

At present, the blanket minimum English requirement for all principal applicants does not fully support the Government’s intention of attracting and retaining the skilled workers that New Zealand businesses urgently need. Adjusting this setting could make the SMC more accessible for tradespeople and, in turn, better serve the country’s long-term economic growth.

If you are considering applying under SMC, or were previously ineligible under current settings, now is a good time to reassess your potential eligibility under these upcoming pathways and changes.

For example, you may need to have your current role, job description, and day-to-day tasks reviewed to confirm whether they can be recognised as “skilled” New Zealand work experience for points under the SMC. You may also need to check that your minimum guaranteed hours and pay rate meet INZ’s criteria, as only work that meets these requirements will be recognised as skilled experience.

This may also be a good opportunity to have a conversation with your employer about how they can support your application, taking into account your performance and contributions to the business.

Monitoring INZ updates and seeking timely legal or professional advice can also help you understand how these changes may apply to your specific circumstances and ensure you are well-positioned once the new rules take effect.

Please note that the above is for general information only and does not constitute legal advice. You may also wish to visit INZ’s official page for more information about the upcoming SMC changes.

And if you need specific advice or wish to discuss your circumstances, feel free to contact one of our immigration lawyers and specialists at info@adventark.co.nz or 09 969 1493.