Confirmed Changes to SMC
Steve Baker • May 13, 2026
Immigration New Zealand has confirmed the changes to the Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) taking effect from 24 August 2026.
Details of the changes include:
- confirmation of key occupation lists, including the Trades and Technician pathway list, and the red and amber lists, which determine eligibility for residence pathways
- simplified median wage settings that apply across all Skilled Migrant Category pathways
- clarified qualification requirements for claiming points
- extended English language test validity for some applicants
- a new recognised occupational registration for accountants, and
- a future ability to extend an Accredited Employer Work Visa to complete skilled work experience requirements.
For further detailed information, go to: Further changes to the Skilled Migrant Category to come into effect on 24 August 2026: Immigration New Zealand
If you require additional support on an obligation free basis, please contact Steve on 027 2125483 or steve@advisa.co.nz
MC from 24th August 2026 – Two weeks away.
Parent Resident Visa Category 5th October 2026 – Eight weeks away.
From 24 August 2026, the SMC offers three ways to qualify. None replaces the others, and you only need to meet the requirements of the one pathway you apply to.
The new available routes: Skilled Work Experience pathway & Trades and Technician pathways.
In September 2025, the NZ Government announced changes to help New Zealand employers attract and retain skilled workers and support long-term economic growth.
While the citizenship process is faster than it has been in recent years, it is still important to get it right the first time.
The change will be most felt in industries that rely heavily on Level 3 mid skilled roles, creating immediate pressure on labour and project delivery.
English Language requirements extended to AEWV skill level 3
New residence pathways are scheduled to take effect late August 2026. These pathways are in addition to the current system and require key elements to be met.
Immigration New Zealand is announcing further detail on changes to the Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) ahead of these changes taking effect from late August 2026.
This scheme has already secured at least $3.39 billion in committed investment, according to Immigration NZ.
