New Zealand Major Visa Changes 2026 | 2 NEW Pathways for Skilled Workers & Trades Changes

New Zealand Major Visa Changes 2026 | 2 NEW Pathways for Skilled Workers & Trades Changes

New Zealand has announced major Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) visa changes coming in August 2026, introducing 2 brand-new residence pathways for skilled workers, tradespeople, and technicians. These changes aim to attract global talent and strengthen New Zealand’s workforce.

In this video, we explain:

✅ New Skilled Work Experience Pathway

✅ New Trades & Technician Pathway

✅ Updated points system

✅ Reduced work experience requirements

✅ Wage assessment rule changes

✅ Red & Amber occupation list impact

✅ Increased points for NZ qualifications

(Who Benefits):
These updates are especially beneficial for:

Skilled workers (ANZSCO Level 1–3)

Tradespeople with Level 4+ qualifications

International students in New Zealand

Migrants earning at or above the median wage

If you’re planning New Zealand PR, this video is a must-watch.
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📌 Comment your occupation to check eligibility

Timestamp

00:00 Disclaimer
00:59 Agenda
01:19 Introducing Victor
04:51 Skilled Migrant Category Visa Changes
05:39 Two New Residence Pathways Introduced
12:33 Enhanced Points for New Zealand Qualifications
20:14 Revised Points System: What's Changed
21:13 Critical Wage Assessment Changes
25:01 Occupation Lists: Red and Amber Classifications
26:55 Overseas Qualification Assessment Requirements
29:54 Trades and Technician Pathway: Detailed Requirements
30:34 Essential Requirements for All Applicants
33:48 Is Study route best way to migrate to NZ ?
40:04 Can UK experienced professionals apply for NZ jobs directly from the UK ?


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New Zealand has announced major changes to the Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) Resident Visa, effective August 2026. These reforms introduce two new residence pathways designed to better recognise skilled workers, tradespeople, and technicians already contributing to the New Zealand workforce.
The new Skilled Work Experience Pathway targets migrants in ANZSCO skill level 1–3 roles with substantial overseas and New Zealand experience, while the Trades and Technician Pathway focuses on specified trades with Level 4+ qualifications and post-qualification experience. The changes also include higher points for New Zealand qualifications, reduced work experience requirements, and simplified wage assessments.