Quick Answer: From 24 August 2026, New Zealand’s Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) Resident Visa introduces two new residence pathways: the Skilled Work Experience Pathway and the Trades and Technician Pathway. These changes, confirmed by Immigration New Zealand in March 2026, are designed to better recognise practical skills and work contribution alongside academic qualifications.
What Is the Skilled Migrant Category?
The Skilled Migrant Category is New Zealand’s primary residence pathway for skilled workers. Unlike temporary work visas, SMC residence grants the right to live and work in New Zealand indefinitely. From 24 August 2026, the category operates with two distinct tracks, each targeting a different profile of skilled migrant.
Full details of both pathways, including the confirmed occupation lists and wage thresholds, are published by Immigration New Zealand at immigration.govt.nz.
Pathway 1: The Skilled Work Experience Pathway
This pathway is designed for migrants in professional and managerial roles at ANZSCO skill levels 1 to 3. Key requirements:
- At least five years of directly relevant post-qualification work experience
- At least two of those five years in New Zealand
- Earning at least 1.1 times the SMC median wage (NZD $35.00/hour from August 2026) during the NZ period
A points system applies. Notably, New Zealand qualifications now attract stronger points than equivalent overseas qualifications — a deliberate policy shift to reward migrants who study and develop skills within New Zealand.
Pathway 2: The Trades and Technician Pathway
This pathway provides a residence route for tradespeople who previously had limited realistic options. Key requirements:
- Working in a specified trades or technician occupation at ANZSCO skill levels 1 to 3
- Holding a relevant Level 4 or above qualification
- At least four years of post-qualification directly relevant experience
- At least 1.5 years of that experience in New Zealand at or above the SMC median wage
Red and Amber Occupation Lists
Red list: Occupations on this list cannot be used to meet the skilled work experience requirements for SMC residence. Working in a red list role does not affect your temporary visa, but it blocks your progress toward SMC residence.
Amber list: Occupations that can be used for SMC but will receive additional scrutiny. Applications in amber list occupations should be particularly well-documented.
The lists are published and updated by Immigration New Zealand. If your occupation appears on either list, seek legal advice before commencing your planned pathway.
What This Means for Current AEWV Holders
Many migrants currently on Accredited Employer Work Visas are accumulating NZ work experience toward SMC. The August 2026 changes also coincide with updates to the AEWV itself — see our separate guide: AEWV NZ 2025 Changes Explained for how the two pathways interact.
If you are planning your residence pathway, our immigration law team can assess your eligibility under both the current and new SMC settings.
Legal Disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Every case is unique. If you require legal assistance, please contact Agile Legal for a confidential consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
When do the new SMC pathways take effect?
The new pathways take effect from 24 August 2026. Applications submitted before this date are assessed under the current SMC settings. Whether to apply before or after August 2026 depends on your specific circumstances — contact Agile Legal to assess which settings are more advantageous for your situation.
Do both new pathways require New Zealand work experience?
Yes. Both pathways require a period of New Zealand work experience — two years for the Skilled Work Experience Pathway and 1.5 years for the Trades and Technician Pathway. Overseas experience alone is insufficient for either pathway under the new framework.
Can I still apply under the current SMC settings before August 2026?
Yes. The current SMC settings remain in force until 24 August 2026. Seek advice on which timeline suits your situation before deciding.