New Zealand Introduces Updated Salary Criteria for Skilled Migrant Visa Classification

New Zealand Introduces Updated Salary Criteria For Skilled Migrant Visa Classification

By: Aisha

Want to live, work, and study overseas with a Skilled Migrant Visa in New Zealand? Before applying for one, you must learn of the recent changes and updates that have been made to the New Zealand Skilled Worker Visa by the government. To explore this, we bring you this informative article to make things easier to understand when applying for an NZ Skilled Migrant Visa. Check out the the necessary changes being made.

What is a Skilled Migrant Visa New Zealand?

The Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa (SMC) or New Zealand Skilled Worker Visa is a direct path towards residency for most skilled workers. It includes those with professional enrollment requiring careful training, medical degree holders, and individuals earning significantly more than their average salary.

But, on October 9, 2023, last year, the New Zealand government introduced new changes in the Skilled Resident Visa or NZ Skilled Worker Visa with an unrestricted 6-point system to simplify the process for skilled migrant workers.

The applicants who are currently working or have a job offer are only eligible to qualify for 6 points for working in New Zealand

All About the New SMC Point Systems

In the new Skilled Migrant Category (SMC), the New Zealand government laid out the 6-point system in October 2023, last year. Due to this, the visa application has been simplified for all high-skilled workers, who are offered a straightforward path towards residency. With the New Zealand Skilled Migrant Visa Application, as an applicant, you can:
  • Qualify for residency if you possess top-tier skills.
  • Experience a simpler and clearer application process.
  • Take advantage of a range of criteria to meet the 6-point system.
To become eligible for NZ skilled worker visa, you should:
  • Get at least 6 points based on occupation, qualifications, and income.
  • Meet the eligibility criteria for health, character, and English fluency.
  • Look into the yearly median wage, which can affect eligibility starting in February 2024.

How to Apply for New Zealand Skilled Migrant Visa?

Want to apply for Skilled Migrant Visa New Zealand? Here’s a step-by-step process that you must follow:
  • Step 1: Present an Expression of Interest (EOI)
The first step is presenting your eligibility criteria based on the new 6-point system. Your EOI should include details about your skills, certificates, and health, which will impact your total number of points.
  • Step 2: Invitation to Apply
After submitting and selecting your EOI, you will receive a formal invitation letter to apply for the New Zealand Skilled Migrant Visa officially.
  • Step 3: Submit the Visa Application
At this stage, you must provide extensive information and documentation to support your visa application. You must also submit attached accurate and complete proof of your qualifications, work experience, income, and other relevant criteria.
  • Step 4: Processing and Final Residency
Usually, the visa application takes 6-8 weeks to process. And, once your application is approved, you will finally get your ticket to New Zealand.

Conclusion

We know that the visa application process is tiring. Fret not, because all you need is professional help like ours, at Maxim Immigrations. Individuals trust us during their visa application process because we simplify their application process, provide expert advice, and have clear communication with our clients. So don’t wait long and contact us to start your visa application process today.