Question 1

What is the new Skilled Worker Experience (SWE) pathway?

Accepted Answer

The Skilled Worker Experience (SWE) pathway is a new residence pathway launching in late August 2026. It is designed for migrants who have already been working in New Zealand in a skilled role and want a clearer route to residence based on their work experience here.
Full eligibility criteria will be confirmed by Immigration New Zealand ahead of the August 2026 launch. If you are currently working in New Zealand and building up your experience, this may be a relevant pathway for you.
Contact us to discuss whether you are likely to qualify — early planning makes a real difference.

Question 2

What are the August 2026 changes to the Skilled Migrant Category (SMC)?

Accepted Answer

The SMC is changing significantly from late August 2026 following the Government's 5 March 2026 announcement. Key changes include:
Wage-based points system — you need a minimum of 6 points, earned primarily through income.
ANZSCO Level 1–3 roles — must be paid at least the median wage (currently NZD $35.00/hr) to earn points.
ANZSCO Level 4–5 roles — must be paid at least 1.5 times the median wage (currently NZD $52.50/hr) to be eligible.
Skilled work experience — additional points can be claimed from NZ work experience where you were paid at the required threshold throughout.
Job offer requirement — must be permanent or fixed-term for at least 12 months, or a continuous contract for at least 6 months.
If you are working in New Zealand and considering residence, it is important to assess whether your role and wage meet the new thresholds before August 2026.

Question 3

What is the new Trades and Technician pathway to residence?

Accepted Answer

From late August 2026, a new Trades and Technician residence pathway will be available for workers in recognised trade occupations — such as electricians, plumbers, builders, and other skilled trades.
To be eligible, you will generally need to:
Work in a qualifying trade occupation
Hold the relevant trade qualification or registration where required
Meet minimum work experience requirements
This pathway is an exciting development for those who have been working in the trades sector without a clear residence option. Full details will be confirmed by INZ ahead of August 2026 — we will update this page as they become available.

Question 4

Are there any changes to the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa

Accepted Answer

The recent changes primarily focused on the AEWV. However, the Skilled Migrant Category still uses a  6 points-based system, so ensuring your migrant worker has the required skills and qualifications remains crucial.
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This is primarily based on a combination of
Qualification
Wages
Job offer

Question 5

Should I apply for residence now or wait for the August 2026 changes?

Accepted Answer

This depends entirely on your situation — there is no one-size-fits-all answer.
Some people will be better off applying under the current rules before August 2026.
Others may benefit from waiting — particularly tradespeople or those who need more time to build their New Zealand work experience.
The two new pathways (SWE and Trades & Technician) may open options that do not exist under the current system.
We strongly recommend getting personalised advice before making this decision. Contact us at info@iianz.com or call 0800 452 169.

Question 6

How can I attract skilled migrants under the current immigration policy

Accepted Answer

Offering competitive salaries, promoting career development opportunities, and sponsoring the visa application process can make your company more attractive to skilled migrants.

Question 7

I am on an AEWV — can I still apply for SMC residence after August 2026?

Accepted Answer

Yes, provided you meet the new wage thresholds and point requirements. The key is that your job offer and wage must meet the criteria in effect at the time you apply.
If you have been working in New Zealand at the qualifying wage, your skilled work experience in New Zealand may also contribute additional points toward your eligibility.
Talk to us about your specific situation before the changes take effect — the right time to apply will depend on your individual circumstances.

Question 8

What are the skilled residence pathways?

Accepted Answer

There are 3 skills-based pathways that allow you to get New Zealand residence if you meet the eligibility criteria:
​
the Skilled Migrant Resident pathway
athe Care Workforce and Transport Sector Agreement pathways.

Some of the visas on these pathways allow you to apply for residence straight away, such as the Straight to Residence Visa. Other pathways may require you to work in New Zealand before you can apply for residence, such as the Work to Residence Visa.

Question 9

What is the Green List?

Accepted Answer

The Green list is a selection of Job roles which are in higher demand. These are further divided into Tier 1 & Tier 2, which depend on criteria.
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Its important to match the criteria , which is needed and one needs to check  if you have the necessary qualifications , registration  or experience , which may provide an immediate or after 2 years of work experience in the country.

Impact Immigration Advice

Frequently Asked Questions

Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa

What is the new Skilled Worker Experience (SWE) pathway?

What are the August 2026 changes to the Skilled Migrant Category (SMC)?

What is the new Trades and Technician pathway to residence?

Are there any changes to the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa

Should I apply for residence now or wait for the August 2026 changes?

How can I attract skilled migrants under the current immigration policy

I am on an AEWV — can I still apply for SMC residence after August 2026?

What are the skilled residence pathways?

What is the Green List?

Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)

Whats the New Policy for AEWV in Jan 2025 and forthcoming changes

What are the recent changes to the AEWV?

How do the new English language requirements impact my application?

What are the implications of the minimum work hour requirement?

Do the changes apply to existing AEWV holders?

Employer related questions

What are the benefits of hiring migrant workers?

What are my responsibilities as an accredited employer?

What are the costs associated with sponsoring a migrant worker's visa?

What happens if I don't comply with the terms of the AEWV program?

Are you looking at studying in NZ?

What are Top study destinations ?

What are the costs of studying and living in New Zealand?

What are the visa requirements for international students?

What are the job opportunities for international students after graduation?

What is the quality of education in New Zealand?

What are the accommodation options for international students?

What are the safety and security considerations for international students in New Zealand?

More Questions ???

How do I get an "open work" visa?

What is the visa status of a child born in New Zealand ?

How long does a visa take to process ?

What are the different types of Visas available?

What are the costs associated with Immigration to New Zealand visas?

Can I bring my family with me to New Zealand?

What are the job prospects in New Zealand?

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