Chapter 4 of 15

Paperwork & Bureaucracy

Skilled Migrant Category, work visas, SMC points

Summary

New Zealand has a clear but evolving immigration system. The main route for skilled migrants is the Skilled Migrant Category (SMC), which requires scoring points based on work, qualifications, and age. There are also work visas and partner visas. Unlike Australia and Canada, the system is smaller and more personal, but also stricter in some aspects.

What you need to know

Immigration routes overview

Route	For whom	Duration	Cost (NZD)
Skilled Migrant Category (SMC)	Skilled workers with job offer	6-12 months	4,290
Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)	Workers with sponsored job	3-6 months	750
Working Holiday Visa	Age 18-30	Immediate	455
Partnership Visa	Partner of NZ citizen/resident	6-12 months	1,830

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Knowledge Base

Emigrating to New Zealand
Complete guide for emigrating to New Zealand.
Cost of living in New Zealand
Overview of cost of living in New Zealand.
Skilled Migrant Visa New Zealand
Skilled Migrant visa for New Zealand.
Healthcare in New Zealand
Everything about healthcare in New Zealand.
Taxes in New Zealand
Explanation of the New Zealand tax system.

Glossary

IRD Number (Tax Number)
The New Zealand tax number. Required for working (otherwise 45% tax), opening a bank account and KiwiSaver. Apply online at Inland Revenue after arrival.
ACC (Accident Compensation)
The New Zealand accident insurance system. Covers all residents and visitors for accident injuries. Funded via taxes and levies. You cannot sue for injury.
KiwiSaver (Retirement Savings)
The New Zealand retirement savings plan. You contribute 3-10% of your salary, your employer minimum 3%. Can also be used for your first home. Automatically enrolled when you start working.
NHI Number (Health Index Number)
Your New Zealand health number. Automatically assigned at your first healthcare contact. Links all your medical records in the national system.
Skilled Migrant Category Visa
The main work visa for skilled migrants to New Zealand. Points system based on age, education, work experience and job offer. Your occupation must be on the Skill Shortage List.
NZQA (Qualifications Authority)
The New Zealand qualifications authority. If you want to use your Dutch diplomas in NZ, you must have them assessed by NZQA. Takes 4-6 weeks, costs ~$270 NZD.
Inland Revenue (NZ Tax Authority)
The New Zealand tax authority. Tax year runs from April 1 to March 31. NZ has a relatively simple tax system with progressive rates from 10.5% to 39%.
Immigration New Zealand (INZ)
The New Zealand immigration service. Processes all visa applications, residence permits and work permits. Applications via the online portal.
Tenancy Bond (Rental Deposit)
The New Zealand rental deposit: maximum 4 weeks rent. Must be lodged with Tenancy Services (government), not with the landlord. Protects your money.
WOF (Warrant of Fitness)
The New Zealand vehicle inspection (MOT). Mandatory annually (or biannually for cars older than 2000). Without a valid WOF you may not drive and are not insured.