New Zealand sets 6 point threshold for Skilled Migrant Category on Aug. 24

How the 6-point Skilled Migrant Category works

New Zealand's Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) Resident Visa runs on a 6-point threshold introduced in October 2023, with Immigration New Zealand confirming final wage and qualification settings that take effect Aug. 24, 2026.

Applicants must hold an acceptable skilled job or job offer with an accredited employer and reach 6 points. Points come from one of three skill categories: occupational registration, recognised qualifications or income measured against the New Zealand median wage. Up to 3 additional points are available from skilled work experience in New Zealand to top up to the threshold.

A PhD, a 6-year occupational registration or income at 3x the median wage each delivers 6 points alone. A master's degree or 5-year registration delivers 5 points and requires one year of NZ skilled work. Lower qualifications and income at 1.5x to 2x median wage sit at 3-4 points and need 2-3 years of NZ skilled work to qualify.

The system stays uncapped. Applicants must be 55 or under and meet health, character and English requirements.

Who the rules reach

The SMC is a residence pathway, so visitors and pure remote workers serving overseas clients fall outside it. The visa requires NZ employment with an accredited employer.

Skilled migrants already in New Zealand on Accredited Employer Work Visas are the primary group affected, alongside international graduates whose NZ qualifications carry more weight under the August adjustments. Trades and technician roles gain dedicated pathways but still must clear the 6-point bar.

Nomads who convert to local employment can use the same route, with income level and occupational registration determining how quickly they reach residence.

Key dates and wage thresholds

The median wage anchoring SMC income points rose to NZD 35.00 an hour on March 9, 2026, lifting the salary floors tied to the 3, 4 and 6-point income bands.

The finalised qualification rules, occupation lists and simplified wage settings take effect Aug. 24, 2026. Applicants planning submissions around that date should confirm whether the old or new settings apply to their case, since registration categories and qualification point values shift under the update.

Read our full New Zealand guide for the complete picture.