Question 1

What is NZ migration on VisaBridge?

Accepted Answer

The New Zealand side of VisaBridge focuses on skilled NZ migration and PR pathways — SMC, AEWV, Green List residence routes, occupation checks, and pathway maps. It is general information only, not immigration advice.

Question 2

What is the difference between residence and a Permanent Resident Visa?

Accepted Answer

An SMC or Green List resident visa lets you live in New Zealand indefinitely. After holding residence for two years in a row (and meeting travel conditions), you can usually apply for a Permanent Resident Visa that allows indefinite travel in and out of New Zealand. Always confirm current rules with Immigration New Zealand.

Question 3

Do I need an accredited employer?

Accepted Answer

For AEWV and most SMC applications you need a job or job offer with an Immigration New Zealand accredited employer. Green List pathways also typically require a qualifying job offer that meets INZ criteria.

Question 4

Where should I verify official rules?

Accepted Answer

Always check immigration.govt.nz for current visa criteria, fees, Green List occupations, and processing times. VisaBridge summarises public rules for planning — it is not a substitute for INZ or a licensed adviser.

Question 5

How many points do I need for the Skilled Migrant Category?

Accepted Answer

You generally need 6 skilled resident points, plus a skilled job or job offer with an accredited employer. Points come from one skill category (New Zealand occupational registration, qualifications, or income) and can be topped up with New Zealand skilled work experience.

Question 6

Does my job offer give me points?

Accepted Answer

No. A skilled job or job offer is required for eligibility, but it does not award skilled resident points. Points come from registration, qualifications, income bands, and NZ work experience.

Question 7

Can I combine qualification points and income points?

Accepted Answer

No. You choose one skill category — registration, qualification, or income — then add NZ work experience points if you still need to reach 6.

Question 8

What changes are coming in 2026?

Accepted Answer

Immigration NZ has announced SMC updates from 24 August 2026, including points adjustments, extra recognition for some New Zealand qualifications, and new experience-based pathways. Confirm which settings apply to your application date on the official INZ site.

Question 9

What is the Green List?

Accepted Answer

The Green List identifies occupations Immigration New Zealand prioritises for residence. Tier 1 roles may qualify for Straight to Residence; Tier 2 roles typically use Work to Residence after a period of qualifying work.

Question 10

What is an AEWV?

Accepted Answer

The Accredited Employer Work Visa lets accredited NZ employers hire overseas workers. It is the most common temporary work visa for skilled migrants and often the bridge into Green List or SMC residence.

Question 11

Should I use Green List or SMC?

Accepted Answer

If your occupation is on Straight to Residence, that is often the fastest PR path. If you are on Work to Residence, compare the work-period timeline with whether you can already claim 6 SMC points. Occupation, wage, and registration details decide which route fits.

Question 12

How much does an SMC resident visa cost?

Accepted Answer

Immigration NZ lists SMC resident visa fees from around NZD $6,450 for the main applicant (plus partner/child fees where applicable). Fees change — verify on immigration.govt.nz before you pay.

Question 13

How long do NZ residence applications take?

Accepted Answer

Processing times vary by visa type, completeness, and INZ workload. Check the official Immigration New Zealand processing times page for current estimates.

Question 14

Do I need a licensed immigration adviser?

Accepted Answer

Not always, but complex cases benefit from professional help. In New Zealand, look for advisers licensed by the Immigration Advisers Authority (IAA). VisaBridge is not an adviser and does not lodge applications.

Frequently Asked Questions