New Zealand Points Calculator
Calculate your points for New Zealand Skilled Migrant Category residence visa. Enter values for instant results with step-by-step formulas.
Reviewed by Abdullah, Technical Content Specialist
Formula
Total Points = Age + Qualification + Work Experience + Employment + Bonus Points
Points are awarded across multiple categories: age (5-30), qualifications (40-70), work experience (10-50), NZ work experience (10-30), skilled employment (50), regional bonus (30), and partner points (20 each for qualification and employment). A minimum of 160 points is typically required for selection.
Worked Examples
Example 1: Young Professional with Masters
Problem:A 32-year-old with a NZ Masters degree, 6 years work experience, and skilled employment in Wellington.
Solution:Age (32): 30 points\nQualification (Level 9 Masters): 70 points\nNZ Qualification Bonus: 15 points\nWork Experience (6 years): 30 points\nSkilled Employment: 50 points\nTotal: 195 points
Result:195 points - Exceeds 160 threshold by 35 points
Example 2: Mid-Career with Bachelor Degree
Problem:A 42-year-old with overseas Bachelor degree, 10 years experience, no NZ employment yet. Partner has a degree.
Solution:Age (42): 20 points\nQualification (Level 7 Bachelor): 50 points\nWork Experience (10 years): 50 points\nPartner Qualification: 20 points\nTotal: 140 points
Result:140 points - Needs 20 more points (consider NZ job offer for +50)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the New Zealand Skilled Migrant Category visa?
The New Zealand Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) is a points-based residence visa pathway for skilled workers. Applicants submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) with their points claim to the Immigration New Zealand pool. Those selected from the pool are invited to apply for residence. The system awards points for age, qualifications, work experience, skilled employment, and other factors. Applicants generally need at least 160 points to be selected from the pool. Having a job or job offer in New Zealand is an important factor, as it provides significant additional points and satisfies the requirement for skilled employment.
How are age points calculated for the NZ points system?
Age points in the New Zealand Skilled Migrant Category reflect the economic contribution potential of different age groups. Applicants aged 20 to 39 receive the maximum 30 points, recognizing the long working years ahead. Those aged 40 to 44 receive 20 points, and applicants aged 45 to 49 get 10 points. Applicants aged 50 to 55 receive 5 points, which is the minimum. Applicants under 20 or over 55 are generally not eligible for this visa category. The age-based scoring encourages younger skilled migrants who will contribute to the workforce for a longer period, while still allowing pathways for experienced older workers.
What qualifications earn points in the NZ system?
Qualifications are assessed against the New Zealand Qualifications Framework (NZQF). Level 3-4 qualifications like trade certificates and national certificates earn 40 points. Level 5-7 qualifications including diplomas, graduate diplomas, and bachelor degrees earn 50 points. Level 8 postgraduate qualifications such as honours degrees and postgraduate diplomas earn 60 points. Level 9-10 qualifications, which are masters degrees and doctorates, earn 70 points. Overseas qualifications must be assessed by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) to determine their NZQF equivalent level. Additional bonus points of 10 to 15 are available if the qualification was obtained in New Zealand.
How does skilled employment affect my NZ points?
Skilled employment is a critical component of the New Zealand Skilled Migrant Category, awarding 50 points if you have current skilled employment or a job offer in New Zealand. Your employment must be on a skill level 1-3 occupation on the Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO). Additionally, if your skilled employment is outside the Auckland region, you earn 30 bonus points, reflecting the government's policy to encourage regional settlement and economic growth outside major urban centers. Having a job offer from an accredited employer can streamline your application and provide assurance to immigration officers.
References
Reviewed by Abdullah, Technical Content Specialist · Editorial policy