The single-category trap (read this first)
The most common SMC mistake: adding categories together.
β Wrong
Bachelor's (3) + job at 1.5Γ median (3) = 6 points? No. These are both "skill category" points β you can only use one. You have 3 points.
β Right
Bachelor's (3) + 3 years NZ skilled experience (3) = 6 points. Only NZ work experience stacks on top of your single best category.
Formula: best ONE of (registration / qualification / income) + NZ skilled experience (max 3) β₯ 6.
The full points table
| Category (pick ONE) | 3 pts | 4 pts | 5 pts | 6 pts |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NZ occupational registration (by training years) | 2β3 yrs | 4 yrs | 5 yrs | 6+ yrs |
| Qualification | Bachelor's (L7) | β | Master's (L9) | Doctorate (L10) |
| Income (from 9 Mar 2026) | $52.50/h (1.5Γ) | $70.00/h (2Γ) | β | $105.00/h (3Γ) |
| + NZ skilled work experience (stacks) | 1 yr = 1 pt Β· 2 yrs = 2 pts Β· 3 yrs = 3 pts (max) | |||
Source: INZ operational manual SR3 (points summary effective 9 Mar 2026). Median wage $35.00/hour.
What else the SMC requires
- The job is the gate. Unlike Australia's points system, you can't apply without skilled employment or an offer from an accredited employer β points only matter after that.
- Age 55 or under at application.
- English: IELTS 6.5+ (or equivalent), with exemptions for some backgrounds.
- Health & character certificates for you and family included in the application.
- Process: Expression of Interest β Invitation to Apply β residence application. Straightforward cases have been processing in weeksβmonths under the 6-point system.
Frequently asked questions
Q. I have a Master's but my job pays 1.5Γ median. Which counts?
A. Your best single category β the Master's (5 points) beats the income (3 points). Add 1 year of NZ skilled experience and you're at 6.
Q. Does overseas work experience count?
A. Not for points β only skilled work experience in New Zealand earns the +1/+2/+3. (The August 2026 changes are expected to introduce new experience-based pathways; watch this space.)
Q. My occupation needs registration in NZ (nurse, electrician, teacher). Is that automatic points?
A. You must actually hold full or provisional NZ registration, and the occupation must be on the eligible list (SR3.30). The points depend on the training time the registration requires, not your personal experience.
Q. What if I can't reach 6 points at all?
A. Check the Green List: Tier 1 occupations get Straight to Residence (no points), Tier 2 gets Work to Residence after 24 months. The new pathways announced for August 2026 may also open doors for trades and experienced workers.
Sources: Immigration New Zealand operational manual (SR3, points effective 9 March 2026), immigration.govt.nz. This calculator provides an estimate only and is not immigration advice. Verify with INZ or a Licensed Immigration Adviser (IAA) before applying.