GP2

GLOBAL PATHWAY PARTNERS

Your Pathway to New Zealand

All you need to know on Immigrating to New Zealand

Find out about the benefits of New Zealand immigration, the programs and the available job opportunities.

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Why choose GP2 for your New Zealand migration pathway?

Partnered with real world experience

20+ years handling New Zealand immigration cases

Support at every stage

Support from consultation to decision

Always up to date

Updated with immigration changes

Dedicated support

Realistic, tailored action plan

Popular New Zealand Visa Routes

Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) Resident Visa

The SMC Resident Visa is New Zealand’s main pathway to permanent residence for skilled workers. As of August 2026, it runs on three separate pathways depending on your qualifications, income, and work history, and — unlike Australia’s or Canada’s points systems — there’s no capped invitation round; applicants who meet the threshold and hold a skilled job or job offer can apply directly.

Step 1
Profile matching

Assess Your SMC Eligibility

Step 2
Meet the threshold

Meet Pathway Requirements

Step 3
Visa application

Guided by our partner consultants

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What you'll need

  • The standard route: reach 6 points from a single primary category — income, qualification, or NZ-recognised occupational registration.
  • Points can be topped up with 1–3 additional points for skilled work experience gained in New Zealand.
  • Income-based points start at 1.5× the median wage for the lowest tier, rising to 2× and 3× for higher point values.
  • Requires a genuine, ongoing skilled job or job offer in New Zealand.
  • New as of 24 August 2026, built for applicants with a strong New Zealand work history rather than a formal qualification or high income.
  • Requires 5+ years of skilled work experience under the new INZ settings.
  • Offers a route to residence for experienced workers who might not otherwise reach 6 points through the standard categories.
  • Also new as of 24 August 2026, built for tradespeople and technical workers.
  • Combines a relevant qualification with a set period of hands-on work experience.
  • Recognises practical, on-the-job skill that the pure points-based system previously under-weighted.