The New Zealand Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa (SMC Visa) is a great option for skilled workers who want to live and work permanently in New Zealand. The visa is opening to applications on October 9, 2023, with a new points system coming into effect.
Under the new system, applicants will need six points to be granted residence. Points can be claimed for a range of factors, including:
- New Zealand occupational registration
- Qualification (Bachelor’s degree or higher)
- Income from job or job offer (earning at least 1.5 times the median wage in New Zealand)
In addition to these factors, applicants can also claim points for their age, work experience, and partner’s skills and qualifications.
The SMC Visa is open to people from all over the world, and there is no cap on the number of visas that will be granted. However, applicants must meet all of the eligibility criteria in order to be successful.
Here are some of the key benefits of the SMC Visa:
- You can live and work permanently in New Zealand.
- You can bring your partner and dependent children with you to New Zealand.
- You can access New Zealand’s public healthcare and education systems.
- You can apply for New Zealand citizenship after four years of living in New Zealand on a permanent visa.
If you are interested in applying for the SMC Visa, you can find more information on the Immigration New Zealand website. You can also contact an immigration lawyer or advisor for assistance.
Here are some additional tips for applying for the SMC Visa:
- Make sure that you meet all of the eligibility criteria.
- Gather all of the required documentation well in advance of submitting your application.
- Be prepared to provide evidence of your skills and qualifications.
- Have your application proofread by a qualified professional before submitting it.
The SMC Visa is a great way to start a new life in New Zealand. If you are a skilled worker who is looking for a new challenge, I encourage you to consider applying for this visa.