New Zealand Require Healthcare, Engineering, IT Workers in 2025 on Skilled Migrant Visa

In an era where nations compete to attract the best global talent, New Zealand has made it clear that it aims to prioritize skilled professionals who can fill critical gaps in its economy, particularly within healthcare, engineering, and information technology (IT).

Recent changes to New Zealand’s Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) Resident Visa in 2024 reflect this strategic focus. By simplifying the points-based system, tightening eligibility criteria, and emphasizing job readiness, New Zealand is creating a streamlined pathway for top talent to integrate swiftly and contribute meaningfully.

These changes are set to impact 2025 applicants, making it imperative for prospective migrants to understand the new policies, eligible occupations, and the revised application process. This article covers the recent changes, their anticipated impact, eligible roles, and a step-by-step guide to applying in 2025.

Eligible Occupations for the SMC Visa in 2025

New Zealand’s economic needs drive its focus on key sectors with critical skills shortages. As of 2025, priority occupations eligible for the SMC visa include:

• Healthcare: High demand for nurses, doctors, medical specialists, and allied healthcare professionals.
• Engineering: Civil, structural, mechanical, and other engineering roles remain vital to New Zealand’s infrastructure and development.
• Information Technology (IT): The nation seeks software developers, IT analysts, data scientists, and cybersecurity experts to strengthen its digital economy.
• Construction and Trades: Roles such as electricians, carpenters, and plumbers continue to see high demand.
• Education: Qualified teachers, especially in STEM fields like mathematics and sciences, are highly sought after.

The full and up-to-date list of eligible occupations is maintained by INZ and reflects ongoing labor market needs here https://www.immigration.govt.nz/new-zealand-visas/preparing-a-visa-application/working-in-nz/skilled-work/skill-shortage-list-checker.

Changes to the Skilled Migrant New Zealand Visa Happened in 2024

Following 4 major changes are observed in the policy of New Zealand Skilled Migrant visa for 2025:

1# Simplified Points System

• Previous Structure: Traditionally, the points system required a minimum of 160 points, considering a range of factors such as age, qualifications, and work experience, leading to a cumbersome evaluation process.
• Updated Requirement: From 2024, the points requirement has been simplified to a minimum of 6 points, which can be earned through:
  1. Skilled Employment: Points are awarded for holding a current skilled job in New Zealand or possessing a job offer from an accredited employer.
  2. Qualifications: Points can be accrued for tertiary qualifications recognized by New Zealand immigration authorities.
  3. Work Experience: Time spent working in New Zealand further enhances an applicant’s points.
• Impact: The streamlined system is intended to make the visa more accessible to high-demand talent while ensuring that migrants are ready to contribute economically upon their arrival.

2# Mandatory Employment Requirement

• Policy Change: Applicants must now either hold a current skilled job in New Zealand or have a job offer from an accredited employer to qualify for the SMC visa.
• Reasoning: This change ensures that migrants are well-positioned to integrate immediately and contribute to key sectors, such as healthcare, engineering, and IT, reducing the risk of unemployment or underemployment.

3# Revamped Expression of Interest (EOI) Process

• Overview: Prospective migrants are required to submit an EOI through the official Immigration New Zealand (INZ) platform. High-ranking EOIs will receive invitations to apply for residency.
• Implication: The revised EOI process allows INZ to prioritize quality applicants and manage processing times more efficiently, ensuring that skilled professionals enter the labor market faster.
• EOI Submission for SMC in 2025: https://www.immigration.govt.nz/formshelp/smc-eoi-form.

4# Skilled Migrant Category Interim Visa

• Purpose: This newly introduced visa type allows applicants to stay in New Zealand while their residency applications are being processed.
• Benefits: The interim visa ensures stability, allowing migrants to continue working and contributing while awaiting residency approval.
• Apply: https://www.immigration.govt.nz/new-zealand-visas/preparing-a-visa-application/living-in-new-zealand-permanently/new-zealand-skilled-residence-pathways/skilled-migrant-category-interim-visa.

Applying for the SMC Visa in 2025

The new application process now includes EOI step so therefore the overhauled process is explained below:

1# Expression of Interest (EOI) Submission

• • Procedure: Prospective applicants must submit an EOI on the INZ website, providing detailed information on their qualifications, work experience, and current employment status.
  • Assessment: EOIs are evaluated based on the new points system, and top-scoring applicants will be invited to apply for residency.

2# Invitation to Apply (ITA)

• • Next Steps: Successful EOI applicants receive an ITA, confirming their eligibility to proceed with the residency application.

3# Residency Application Submission

• • Documentation: Applicants must submit comprehensive evidence of their job offer, qualifications, and other supporting documents, including medical and police checks.
  • Application Fees: Fees vary but are detailed on the INZ website.

4# Skilled Migrant Category Interim Visa (if applicable)

• • Purpose: This visa allows applicants to remain and work in New Zealand while awaiting residency approval, providing continuity and stability.

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