Future of the Skilled Migrant Category

The Skilled Migrant Category has traditionally been New Zealand’s main residence visa category based on skills and employment. New priority skilled residence pathways have been introduced under the Immigration Rebalance. There are now 3 main pathways to skilled residence.

You can fill out and email our submission form, or complete an online survey. Submissions close at 5pm on 18 November 2022.

MBIE is seeking feedback to inform further advice to the Government on proposed changes to the Skilled Migrant Category residence visa.

We are proposing the following key changes to the Skilled Migrant Category.

The Government is rebalancing the immigration system to support its plan for a higher-productivity, higher-wage economy.

We are proposing changes to attract and retain migrants with the medium- to long-term skills New Zealand needs. The changes are designed to align with the Immigration Rebalance and give more certainty to migrant workers and their families.

We are proposing to introduce a simplified points system that sets a clear, fair, and transparent eligibility threshold for skilled residence.

This section sets out details of the proposed simplified points system and seeks feedback on its workability.

Summary of questions for the consultation on the future of the skilled migrant category

The submissions report contains a summary of the consultation feedback.