IMMINZ · IMMIGRATION GUIDE
Skilled residence: choose the right SMC pathway
On this page
What to check first
- The current INZ page lists Points-based, Skilled Work Experience, and Trades and Technicians pathways.
- Check skilled employment with an accredited employer, age and English requirements.
- Identify the evidence needed for your selected pathway before submitting an expression of interest.
Prepare for a useful first conversation
Prepare a dated employment history, job description, pay details, qualifications and professional registration information. Separate New Zealand work experience from overseas experience.
A common question
Is this the same as permanent residence?
No. A Resident Visa and a Permanent Resident Visa are distinct. The later application has its own requirements.
Prepare your application file
- Employment file: duties, pay, hours, employer accreditation and a dated history of New Zealand and overseas work.
- Pathway file: qualifications and assessments, registration or income evidence relevant to the route being considered. Keep the evidence for each claimed period together.
- Family file: identify who will be included and check each person’s relationship, English, health and character requirements.
A point worth checking early
An EOI is not a residence approval. Avoid treating a job title or salary alone as proof of eligibility; actual duties and the evidence for the selected pathway matter.
Our published service fee
Enquire
This is the fee displayed on our service page. Confirm the scope and applicable costs before engaging us. Government charges, where applicable, are separate. Official processing estimates can change and are not guaranteed completion dates.
Discuss the support you need
Ask us to compare your evidence with the current pathway requirements and identify gaps before an EOI or residence application is prepared.
We will confirm the work included and the applicable fees before you engage us. The checklist is a starting point; the documents required depend on your circumstances.
Related guides
Explore relevant options; moving between visas is not automatic. Each route has its own requirements.