NZ SMC 6-Point Calculator
Check if you have the 6 points required for New Zealand Permanent Residency under the new Skilled Migrant Category rules.
Step 1: Choose Your Primary Pillar
You can only claim points from ONE of the following three categories. You cannot combine them.
Step 2: Add NZ Work Experience
Must be in a skilled role in New Zealand.
Step 3: Mandatory Job Offer
Total SMC Points
3
6 Points Required to Apply
education Pillar+3 pts
NZ Experience+0 pts
Not Eligible
You do not have the required 6 points. You need to work in NZ longer or upgrade your primary skill pillar.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the new NZ 6 point system work?
The new Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) is vastly simplified. You must claim your base points from ONE of three pillars: Education (e.g. Master's = 5 pts), Income (e.g. 1.5x median wage = 3 pts), OR Professional Registration. You then add points from your New Zealand work experience (up to 3 points). If your total hits exactly 6, and you have a job offer, you can apply for Residency.
Can I combine education and income points for NZ residency?
No. This is the most common mistake applicants make. You cannot mix and match from the three skill pillars. If you claim 4 points for your income, you cannot also claim 3 points for your Bachelor's degree. You must choose ONE pillar to be your foundation, and then add NZ Work Experience points to it.
How many points do I need for NZ Skilled Migrant?
You need exactly 6 points. Unlike the old system where the threshold floated between 160 and 180 points based on draws, the new system is a hard 6-point target. Once you hit 6 points, you are eligible to apply.
Does a master's degree give 6 points in NZ?
No, a standard Master's degree gives you 5 points. To reach the 6 points required, you will need to work in New Zealand for 1 year in a skilled role (which provides the final 1 point). A PhD is the only degree that grants 6 points instantly.