Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa
For skilled workers who want to live in New Zealand permanently based on a points system.
The Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa is a New Zealand work & skilled visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~NZ$6,450 including levy (offshore applications)) and processing time (~6-12 months), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa is for
For skilled workers who want to live in New Zealand permanently based on a points system.
Grants residence immediately; can lead to a Permanent Resident Visa and citizenship.
Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa - eligibility criteria
- Score at least 6 points from qualifications, income or occupational registration
- Hold a skilled job or job offer in New Zealand
- Be aged 55 or under
- Meet English language requirements
- Meet health and character requirements
Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa (New Zealand) is ~NZ$6,450 including levy (offshore applications), with an indicative processing time of ~6-12 months. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at Immigration New Zealand.
| Type | Points-based |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Online, from outside or inside New Zealand |
| Length of stay | Permanent (indefinite resident visa) |
| Work rights | Work for any employer in any role |
| Study rights | Study with no restrictions |
| Government fee | ~NZ$6,450 including levy (offshore applications) |
| Processing time | ~6-12 months |
| Route to PR | Grants residence immediately; can lead to a Permanent Resident Visa and citizenship. |
Pathway & next steps
Grants residence immediately; can lead to a Permanent Resident Visa and citizenship.
Many applicants also compare AEWV · Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV), Green List STR · Green List Straight to Residence Visa, PRV · Permanent Resident Visa. Run a free VisaChief check to see which New Zealand route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa pitfalls we fix
Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa - frequently asked questions
How much does the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa cost?
The Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa government fee is ~NZ$6,450 including levy (offshore applications). Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at Immigration New Zealand before applying.
How long does the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~6-12 months. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa lead to permanent residence?
Grants residence immediately; can lead to a Permanent Resident Visa and citizenship.
Can I work on the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa?
Work rights: Work for any employer in any role.
Who can apply for the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa?
For skilled workers who want to live in New Zealand permanently based on a points system.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official New Zealand government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- Immigration New Zealand - official New Zealand immigration authority