The New Zealand Government has announced sweeping reforms to the Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) Resident Visa, unveiling new pathways and easing existing requirements to make it easier for skilled workers to gain residence. The changes, aimed at strengthening the workforce and supporting long-term economic growth, will come into effect from August 2026.
Under the new framework, two residence pathways will be introduced. The Skilled Work Experience Pathway will apply to migrants in skilled roles at ANZSCO skill levels 1 to 3. Applicants will be required to have at least five years of directly relevant work experience, including two years in New Zealand, while earning a minimum of 1.1 times the median wage.
The second, the Trades and Technician Pathway, will focus on specified trades and technical roles. Applicants must hold a relevant Level 4 or higher qualification and demonstrate four years of post-qualification experience. At least 18 months of this experience must be gained in New Zealand, at or above the median wage. Immigration officials said this pathway is intended to recognise the contribution of practical, hands-on skills that are critical to sectors facing persistent shortages.
The Government has also confirmed a series of broader adjustments. More points will be awarded to applicants holding New Zealand university-level qualifications, making it easier for international students to transition into residence. Officials said this move supports the International Education Plan for Growth by encouraging more students to study locally and build careers in New Zealand.
In addition, the requirement for local work experience has been eased. For many migrants, the maximum requirement will fall from three years to two, a step the Government said would make New Zealand more competitive internationally in attracting skilled workers.
The wage requirement has also been simplified. Migrants will no longer need to meet an increased wage threshold when applying for residence. Instead, they will only need to maintain the median wage throughout their qualifying period of New Zealand work experience.
“The reforms are part of the Government’s broader “Going for Growth” programme, which includes further measures such as refining the Accredited Employer Work Visa, improving education outcomes, and supporting young people into jobs and training. Full details of the new residence pathways and specific eligibility requirements will be released closer to the implementation date in August 2026”, said immigration experts.
