Exciting New Changes to the Skilled Migrant Category from August 2026
As part of the Government’s Going for Growth programme, the Government has now announced some new changes to the Skilled Migrant Category. These changes come into effect in August 2026. More information will be provided mid-next year.
Two new residence pathways
There will now be two new pathways to residency.
Experience pathway:
Skilled work experience: for those who have a role that is ANZSCO skill level 1 to 3, with at least 5 years of work experience (including 2 years of experience in New Zealand) and earning at least 1.1x the median wage, there is a pathway to residency.
This pathway could assist quite a few of our clients.
Trades pathway:
Trades and technician pathway: for those who are in specific trades or technician roles with a relevant Level 4 or higher qualification, at least 4 years of post-qualification experience (with 18 months in New Zealand) that is paid at or above the median wage.
The specific trades and technician roles will be announced at a later date.
There are still health, character and English language and job offer requirements to meet.
When applying for residence, applicants now only have to maintain the same median wage rate throughout their period of New Zealand work experience.
Not all trades will be included.
There will also be a Red List for occupations excluded from the new skilled work experience, and trades and technician pathways. Applicants could still be eligible for other skilled migrant category pathways.
The Amber List will be for occupations which will have an additional eligibility criteria to access the skilled work experience pathway. However, these occupations will not be eligible for the trades and technician pathway.
Other skill category changes
There are also changes to the points and skill category system.
The new Skilled Migrant Category has made changes to the qualification requirements and the length of New Zealand work experience needed to reach the required 6 points.
Original medium wage counts
When applying for residence, applicants now only have to maintain the same median wage rate throughout their period of New Zealand work experience. Currently, the relevant wage rate is assessed at the start of the required New Zealand work experience and again at the residence application.
These changes are good news for those in more skilled roles, on long-term visas, who have missed qualification because they lack a tertiary degree or don’t earn at least 1.5 times the median wage. They will also be good news for tradespeople once we know the list.
Contact Richard Small and our team for further details about these changes and your eligibility for the new Skilled Migrant Category.
Our friendly team will be happy to assist you.