The new date means people who want a SMC visa now have until 1pm on 11 November to submit their Expression of Interest.

The points-based SMC residence visa has been closed to new applications since April 2020.

People who have already submitted an EOI can update their information or withdraw their EOI and request a refund.

On 11 November Immigration New Zealand will select all EOIs at the current threshold of 160 points. After 11 November, the points threshold for selection will increase to 180 points, to better align with the future direction of the Skilled Migrant Category.

EOIs will be selected again on 18 January 2023.

Skilled Migrant Category reopening

The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment is consulting on the future of the Skilled Migrant Category and proposals to introduce a new, simplified points-based system.

Future of the Skilled Migrant Category | mbie.govt.nz

Consultation runs until 18 November.