Skilled Migrant Category
Residence Pathway in New Zealand
If you hold a skilled job or receive an offer from a licensed employer, you may apply for residence under the Skilled Migrant Category. The Immigration New Zealand assesses your job, pay, qualifications and work experience. This page explains what they check and how we assist you.
Choose your situation
You are exploring residence options with a skilled job
You may qualify if you are working in a skilled role (ANZSCO 1-3 or 4-5) or earning at least 1.5 × median wage, and can claim skilled resident points.
We assess your qualification, job offer, pay level and work history.
You have a job offer and want to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)
An EOI allows you to claim points for qualification, registration, income and skilled work experience. You must wait for an invitation to apply.
We help you prepare your EOI and gather required documents.
You hold a work visa and want to convert to residence
If you already work in NZ you may meet the Skilled Migrant Category requirements sooner. We evaluate your current visa, job and record and prepare your residence application.
What INZ looks for in Skilled Migrant Category applications
INZ reviews
• job or job offer from accredited employer
• work in a skilled occupation (ANZSCO 1-5) and wage thresholds
• qualifications, occupational registration or wage levels
• skilled work experience in NZ up to 3 years
• health, character and genuine long-term intention to reside
Incomplete or inconsistent evidence may delay or jeopardise your residence application.
How we prepare your Skilled Migrant Category application
Step 1: Evaluate your profile
We review your job, employer, pay, qualifications and work history to identify your strongest residence pathway.
Step 2: Material preparation
We help you assemble contracts, job descriptions, pay records, registration certificates and other supporting evidence.
Step 3: Submit decision-ready application
We ensure your file is aligned with INZ requirements so you are ready to apply when invited.