New Skilled Migrant Category: Tips for Claiming Skilled Work Experience

Kia ora everyone,

Immigration New Zealand (INZ) has recently provided important information about claiming skilled work experience under the new Skilled Migrant Category (SMC). As your trusted immigration advisors, we at Surani Associates want to break down these guidelines to help you understand how they might affect your residence application.

Key Points About Skilled Work Experience:

1. When Skilled Work Experience Starts:

   • It begins when you start a job that pays at least the required median wage threshold.

   • Only counts up to the date you submit your residence application.

   • Must be full-time employment worked on a full-time basis.

2. When Skilled Work Experience Stops:

   • If you change jobs and the new role pays less than the current median wage.

   • If your pay decreases below the applicable median wage threshold.

   • Changes include switching employers (even in the same role) or changing roles with the same employer.

3. Leave and Remuneration:

   • Leave consistent with the Holidays Act 2003 can be counted if you were earning the required wage before the leave.

   • There are no other exemptions for decreased pay, including for COVID-19 related reasons.

General Tips:

• If claiming points for registration, your skilled work experience must be after meeting the registration requirements.

• When claiming points for income, your work experience must meet the same threshold percentage, not just the median wage.

• Provide IRD summaries covering all days of claimed skilled work experience.

• Job descriptions and signed employment agreements stating hours and pay are mandatory.

Important Clarifications:

1. For Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) holders: The median wage rate that applies is the one in effect when you start working in New Zealand, not the rate your AEWV was approved under.

2. Suitable Qualification: There's no requirement to be "suitably qualified" to start counting skilled work experience. However, INZ may consider your skills and experience when assessing if you match your claimed ANZSCO code.

At Surani Associates, we're here to help you navigate these complex requirements. Whether you're preparing to apply for residence under the Skilled Migrant Category or need advice on claiming skilled work experience, our experienced team can provide tailored guidance to strengthen your application.

Remember, accurate documentation and understanding these guidelines are crucial for a successful SMC application. If you have any questions or need assistance, please don't hesitate to reach out to us.

We'll continue to keep you updated on any further changes or clarifications from INZ. In the meantime, stay positive and let's work together to achieve your immigration goals in Aotearoa New Zealand.