The SMC Visa is one of the most popular pathways for skilled workers from overseas to become New Zealand residents. It is especially popular because partners and dependent children can be included in the application as well. SMC is a points-based application with points mainly being awarded for age, experience, employability and qualifications.
To be eligible under the SMC, applicants must generally be under 55 years old, be in good health, be of good character and speak English. Although a job offer isn’t mandatory, it is usually critical to securing enough points to gain residence under the SMC.
Skilled Migration Point System
The SMC system is a point-based system. Points are awarded for: Skilled employment; Work Experience; Recognised Qualifications; Age; Close Family (living in New Zealand); Bonus points
There are also minimum standards required in some areas, including: Health, Character, English Language Requirements and Occupational Registration
Your applicaton will be completed in two stages
Stage one consists of completing an Expression of Interest (EOI). In your EOI you must claim a minimum of 160 points or more. Immigration New Zealand (INZ) does a fortnightly draw selecting EOI’s based on the points claimed and then invites people with sufficient points to apply.
Stage two starts once your EOI has been selected and an initial verification has been undertaken. You will then be offered an invitation to apply for residence. You will have to show proof of the claims that you made on your EOI. This means providing all documentation regarding your application and other factors. Once the residence application with supporting documents is submitted, an immigration officer will assess and decide if residence will be granted to you. They will communicate with the applicant or their migration agent if further information is required.
