Great news for international students – Master’s degree now earns 6 points!

The New Zealand Government has announced important updates to the Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) and introduced two new residence pathways effective August 2026.

Key Changes to the Current SMC

Doctoral & Master’s degrees still earn the maximum 6 points
Reduced NZ work experience needed to reach 6 points (now ~1.5–2 years instead of 3)
Wage assessment must now be maintained throughout your work experience, not just at the time of application

New Pathways (from August 2026)

1. Trades & Technicians Pathway
  • Requires a Level 4+ qualification
  • 4 years’ post-qualification skilled work (including 18 months in NZ at median wage)
2. Skilled Work Experience Pathway
  • 5 years directly relevant skilled work (including 2 years in NZ at 1.1 × median wage)
How the Current 6-Point System Works
Under the current system, you must choose one main pillar and then add NZ work experience to reach 6 points.

Step 1: Choose Your Main Pillar (only one)
  • Qualification | NZ occupational registration | Income
    Each pillar gives 3 to 6 points depending on level
Step 2: Top Up with NZ Skilled Work Experience
  • Add up to 3 points for skilled NZ work to reach the 6-point threshold.
Step 3: Income Route
  • Higher pay bands earn more points – the top band (3× median wage) earns 6 points.
  • Always check INZ’s pay-rate guidance before planning your application.
Step 4: Don’t Forget the Basics
You still need:
  • Skilled employment (or a valid job offer)
  • Age ≤ 55
  • Health, character & English requirements met
  • How to Earn Points Now – Practical Routes

Qualification Route

  • Map your highest degree and confirm its NZ qualification level and recognition.
  • If it’s an overseas qualification, consider NZQA assessment for comparability.
  • Build a clean evidence pack (certificates, transcripts, official letters).

Occupational Registration Route

  • If your profession requires NZ registration or practising certificates, this can be your strongest pillar.
  • Start early — many boards have multi-step processes or English/competency requirements.

Income Route (NZ Job)

  • Compare your current pay rate to INZ’s median-wage bands.
  • Evidence must align with contracts, payslips, and tax records.
  • The top band (3× median wage) gives 6 points; lower bands give fewer.

NZ Skilled Work Experience (Top-Up)

  • If your main pillar gives <6 points, add up to +3 points for skilled NZ work experience.
  • Keep your paper trail tight: contracts, payslips, IR filings, and detailed job descriptions matching “skilled” duties – not just job titles.

What This Means for You

These changes could reshape residence pathways for thousands of migrants and employers.
Whether you’re a student, skilled worker, or employer planning ahead – now is the time to prepare.
Contact EZmigrate today
Our licensed immigration advisers can help you map your pathway under the new system and ensure your qualifications and experience are recognised correctly.