Team of Boldvoices | 15 November 2026
New Zealand’s Skilled Migrant Category changes took effect on 24 August 2026. One of the pathways is designed for workers in eligible trades and technician occupations. Immigration New Zealand publishes the eligible occupation list, so applicants can compare their job duties with the relevant occupation code before gathering evidence.
Separate the overseas and New Zealand experience
Build two columns in your work history. In the first, put relevant post-qualification experience in an ANZSCO skill-level 1 to 3 occupation. This part requires at least two and a half years. In the second, put the additional year and a half of eligible post-qualification skilled work in New Zealand at the relevant wage threshold. Immigration New Zealand says self-employment cannot be counted as directly relevant experience under the new pathways.
Run the eligibility check before accepting a job
Imagine a technician with four years of relevant paid work after an Indian diploma and a new job offer in New Zealand. The overseas experience may satisfy the first requirement if it can be documented and fits the occupation rules. The offer still leaves the New Zealand experience to be earned. Check that the role is on the eligible list, that the New Zealand employer is accredited and the job is full-time, and that your permission to work will cover the time needed.
Check which wage applies to which period
Use the official wage guidance for the pathway and the dates when you started gaining skilled work experience. Ask the employer to put hourly pay, guaranteed hours and any changes in writing. Keep all contracts, payslips and records showing the periods you actually worked. Compare the wage against the applicable rule before counting a period toward residence.
What to keep in your evidence folder
Collect an employer reference for each job that shows duties, employment dates and hours, plus independent pay records. Confirm whether you need an International Qualification Assessment and which evidence is acceptable for an overseas credential. Map your duties to the occupation description. If several jobs contribute to your experience, keep the dates and evidence for each role separate.
The expression of interest and the residence application
Review the Skilled Migrant Category’s general requirements, including the age limit of 55, English, health and character. Once you can show that you meet the pathway and general conditions, use the expression-of-interest process. If invited, submit the full evidence for the residence application. Immigration New Zealand lists the residence application cost from NZ$6,450. Check the current processing estimate at that stage, and keep track of the expiry date and conditions of any temporary work visa separately.
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