formli AI logo formli AI
Back to Library
🇳🇿 New Zealand

Skilled Migrant Visa (New Zealand)

Points-Based NZ Permanent Residence

Hard ~60 min Skilled WorkerImmigrationNew ZealandPermanent Residence

/ What is this form?

New Zealand's main skilled migration pathway uses a points-based system. Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) with your points claim. If selected (160+ points), you are invited to apply for residence. Points come from skilled employment in NZ, qualifications, age, and work experience.

/ Who needs this form?

  • Skilled workers aged 55 or under
  • Must have a skilled job or job offer in New Zealand
  • Must score 160+ points on the points scale

/ What you need before you start

Expression of Interest submitted through Immigration NZ portal
Overseas qualifications assessment
Job offer from a NZ employer (or evidence of current NZ employment)
English language evidence (IELTS 6.5+ overall or equivalent)
Police certificates and medical examination

/ Step-by-step guide

1 Calculate Your Points
Use Immigration NZ's points calculator. Key sources: skilled employment in NZ (50 points), bonus for working outside Auckland (30 points), qualifications (varies), age (varies).
2 Get Qualifications Assessed
Have your overseas qualifications assessed by the relevant New Zealand authority before submitting your EOI. Unassessed qualifications cannot be counted for points.
3 Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)
Submit your EOI online through the Immigration NZ portal. If you score 160+ points, you will be selected from the pool and invited to apply for residence.
4 Receive Invitation to Apply
After selection, you have 4 months to submit a full residence application with all required documents.
5 Submit Residence Application
Submit your full application with evidence supporting every points claim. Officers verify each claim carefully.

/ Key fields explained

Field What to enter Common mistake
Points claim Select each factor you qualify for: age, qualifications, work experience, current NZ employment, bonus regional points Points are verified by Immigration NZ — only claim points you can substantiate with documentation

/ Common mistakes to avoid

Not having qualifications assessed before submitting the EOI
Not meeting the English language requirement (IELTS 6.5+ overall)
Claiming points for a job not on the skilled occupation list

/ Frequently asked questions

How many points do I need?

160 points to be selected from the EOI pool. Key sources: skilled employment in NZ (50), bonus outside Auckland (30), qualifications (50-70), age (varies).

What is an EOI?

Expression of Interest — you enter a pool and Immigration NZ selects candidates with 160+ points and invites them to apply for residence.