Skilled Migrant Category changes take effect on 24 August 2026
Announced
Residency
Immigration New Zealand has published final instructions for revised Skilled Migrant Category and work-to-residence settings taking effect on 24 August 2026. Until then the current six-point framework continues. Applicants whose timing crosses that date must use the rules that apply when they are invited and lodge.
Who it affects
Prospective Skilled Migrant Category and work-to-residence applicants around the August transition.
Sources
Primary: Immigration New Zealand — final 2026 SMC changes ↗
Corroborating: 2026 SMC changes overview ↗
Verified 2026-08-02 · methodology