Skilled Migrant Category (SMC)
Permanent Residence (PR) Visa – No sponsor or state nomination needed.
Key Features :
- Permanent Residency (PR) Visa
- Points-based system (you need 6 points or more to be eligible)
- You must have a skilled job offer or be working in NZ already
- Pathway to citizenship after holding PR for a certain period
Current Alternative: Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)
The AEWV is now the main visa for skilled workers coming to New Zealand to work temporarily, with a potential pathway to residence under some conditions.
Key Features:
Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)
- Employer must be accredited by Immigration New Zealand
- Job must pay at least the median wage (NZD $29.66/hour as of 2025)
- You must have a full-time job offer
- Visa duration: up to 5 years
- After 2+ years of work, some may be eligible for residency pathways
Eligibility Criteria:
To qualify for an AEWV, you must
- Have a job offer from an accredited employer
- The job must: Pay at least the required wage and Be listed in the Green List or pass a Job Check showing no NZers are available
- Have qualifications/experience for the role
- Meet health and character requirements
- Meet English language requirements (for some jobs or residency later)
Required Documents:
- Job offer and employment agreement
- Proof of qualifications/work experience
- Passport and ID
- Medical exam & police clearance (if required)
Visa Duration:
- Up to 5 years (based on wage level and occupation)
- You can renew it or transition to residence pathways if eligible
Pathway to Residence:
Some AEWV holders may qualify for residence visas
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A. Green List Straight to Residence Visa
- For jobs on the Green List Tier 1, e.g., engineers, doctors, IT professionals.
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B. Work to Residence Visa
- Work 2 years in a Green List Tier 2 job, then apply for residence.
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C. Skilled Migrant Category
- You can apply based on points (age, qualifications, work experience, wage level).