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
Use this tool to find out what Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) wage threshold applies to you.
Parents who want to migrate permanently and whose adult child(ren) meet the sponsorship requirements have a few visa options.
Eligible international graduates who have completed their studies or are currently studying in New Zealand will have new visas to apply for.
There are different pathways that can lead to a NZ skilled residence visa. Check which pathway relates to you, as each pathway has its own set of requirements.
The impact of this type of offending can be devastating. People can spend years saving for these opportunities and make major life decisions based on false promises.
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.
