New Zealand has rewritten the rulebook. Find out whether the 18 August 2025 changes could make qualifying for residence easier than ever.
New Zealand Residence Update – Skills & Qualifications Changes from 18 Aug 2025
“Education is not preparation for life; education is life itself.” – John Dewey
New Zealand updated its Skilled Migrant Category points system. For graduates of NZ universities, this changes how fast you can reach residence.
Master’s Degree from a NZ University
- 6 points from 18 Aug 2025
- You still need skilled employment in NZ. A job offer at the required wage lets you apply, but you must hold the job while INZ processes it
- To get 6 points: You must have studied full-time for 30+ weeks in NZ and already hold a bachelor’s degree. That bachelor’s can be from any country
NZ Bachelor’s, Honours, Postgrad Diploma, Postgrad Certificate
- 5 points for a NZ bachelor’s with a bachelor’s, NZ honours degree, NZ postgrad diploma, or NZ postgrad certificate
- You’ll need 1 more point = 1 year of skilled work in NZ before applying for residence
Wage Threshold 2026
Skilled work must meet INZ pay rates:
- $33.56/hour from 18 Aug 2025 to 8 Mar 2026
- $35.00/hour from 9 Mar 2026 for ANZSCO skill levels 1-3. Levels 4-5 need 150% of median wage
Why Study in NZ?
NZ qualifications now give more points and cut your work-experience requirement. All 8 NZ universities are NZQA-accredited. You can work 20hrs/week during study and get a Post Study Work Visa after.
Next changes come 24 Aug 2026 with new Trades & Skilled Work Experience pathways.
