The New Zealand government is closing the current Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) and the final date to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) is Augu
The New Zealand government is closing the current Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) and the final date to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) is August 15, 2023. After this date, having 180 points will no longer qualify for residence. The new SMC, which opens on October 9, will have higher qualification requirements and favor PhD holders working as university lecturers or scientists. However, amidst these changes, some requirements for the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa will remain unchanged. These include character requirements, health requirements, English language requirements, and age requirements (applicants must be 55 years old or under). While the new points system removes factors like partner qualifications, it is important to note that certain prerequisites will still apply. Despite the claim that the new system is simplified, it entails complexities that may impact eligibility. The intention behind these changes may be to reduce the number of individuals qualifying for residence, which will have significant implications for employers and migrant communities.
More about the New SMC : https://www.immigration.govt.nz/new-zealand-visas/preparing-a-visa-application/living-in-new-zealand-permanently/new-zealand-skilled-residence-pathways/changes-to-the-skilled-migrant-category-resident-visa
About the Old SMC : https://www.immigration.govt.nz/new-zealand-visas/visas/visa/skilled-migrant-category-resident-visa
