If you’ve got the skills we need and want to make New Zealand your long-term destination, our Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) offers you the opportunity to move to New Zealand to work and live permanently.
Skilled Migrant Category overview
Get a quick overview of the Skilled Migrant Category.
Our requirements
What do I need to do? You’ll find information on who can apply, what the process involves, and how to make the best application.
How to apply
Go here to apply. You’ll find the Expression of Interest, the residence application process, and all the instructions for both stages.
What to do when your application has been accepted.
In the country?
Are you already in New Zealand? Learn about moving from a temporary to a permanent visa, or what to do now that you have residence.
Remember that if you have residence, but want to leave the country temporarily, you will need a returning resident's visa to re-enter New Zealand.
Quick links
Answers to some common questions about the category.
Quickcheck
EOI checklist
Application checklist
Points indicator