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New Zealand PR Visa
Grants the right to live, work, and study in New Zealand permanently, with a pathway to New Zealand citizenship.
Permanent ResidencyResident VisaCitizenship Pathway
Overview
Permanent residence in New Zealand is achieved through the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa (SMC), the Resident from Work pathways, or the Parent, Sibling, and Partnership categories. The SMC is a points-based system managed via an Expression of Interest pool. New Zealand PR holders can apply for citizenship after 5 years of residence.
✓Skilled Migrant Category uses a points-based EOI system
✓Points for age, skilled employment, qualifications, and work experience
✓Straight to Residence available for specific occupations
✓Green List Occupation Resident Visa: fast-track for critical shortage roles
✓New Zealand citizenship after 5 years (including time on residence visa)
✓Access to public healthcare and education for residents
Eligibility Requirements
- ✓Age under 55 at time of application
- ✓Skilled employment in New Zealand (or skilled job offer with evidence)
- ✓Minimum points score (varies; currently 160 points for SMC selection pool)
- ✓Health and character requirements
- ✓English language proficiency (IELTS 6.5 overall, or equivalent)
- ✓Qualifications recognised or assessed by NZQA
Visa Type
🪪 Resident Visa – Skilled Migrant Category (New Zealand)
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