Skilled Migrant Visa Points Calculator

New Zealand's Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) is a points-based residence visa pathway for skilled workers. Applicants earn points for factors such as age, work experience, qualifications, job offer, and whether skills are in demand. The process begins with submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI), which is entered into a pool. Immigration New Zealand (INZ) periodically selects EOIs from the pool, generally inviting those with the highest points scores. Selected applicants are then invited to apply for residence. The SMC was substantially reformed in 2023, with INZ shifting to a regular draw from the pool rather than a cut-off threshold. Points factors and weightings reflect NZ's labour market priorities. Source: Immigration New Zealand — Skilled Migrant Category (immigration.govt.nz).

Historically, the Skilled Migrant Category required a minimum of 160 points to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI). However, following the 2023 reforms, Immigration New Zealand moved away from a fixed cut-off threshold to a pool-based selection system, where INZ draws from the pool and selects the highest-scoring EOIs based on current demand. This means there is no longer a guaranteed invitation at 160 points — actual selection cut-offs can be higher depending on the number of applicants in the pool and INZ's draw criteria. Applicants should aim for the highest possible score to maximise their chance of selection. Check the INZ website for the most recent draw results and current selection points. Source: Immigration New Zealand — SMC Pool Draws (immigration.govt.nz).

Under the Skilled Migrant Category, New Zealand qualifications at Level 7 or above on the NZQF (New Zealand Qualifications Framework) generally score points, as do overseas qualifications assessed as equivalent by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA). Points are typically awarded for a bachelor's degree or higher. Qualifications relevant to your occupation or to a skill shortage area may attract bonus points. Post-graduate qualifications (such as a master's or PhD) score higher than a bachelor's degree. Trade and vocational qualifications at Level 4 or above can also score points if relevant to skilled employment in NZ. INZ uses the ANZSCO (Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations) to assess skill levels. Always check current INZ criteria, as the points schedule is updated periodically. Source: Immigration New Zealand — SMC Points (immigration.govt.nz).

Under the Skilled Migrant Category, having a job offer or current employment in New Zealand in a skilled occupation significantly boosts your points score. A current job offer from a NZ employer for skilled employment scores bonus points, and additional points can be claimed if the role is in an identified skill shortage area listed on INZ's long-term or immediate skill shortage lists. Points for skilled employment in New Zealand also apply if you are already working here on a valid work visa. The bonus reflects the government's priority of filling immediate labour market gaps. Relevant employment must typically be at ANZSCO Skill Level 1, 2, or 3. Points for employment outside New Zealand in a skilled occupation are also available, though generally at a lower rate. Source: Immigration New Zealand — SMC Skilled Employment (immigration.govt.nz).