Major changes to Skilled Migrant Category

Expression of Interest – Selection criteria
The first major change is about the selection criteria for Expression of Interests.
At the moment an Expression of Interest (EOI) is automatically selected from the pool if the applicant claims 140 points or more. In addition, EOI’s with more than 100 but less than 140 points but with a job offer also get selected.

As from 12 October 2016, EOI’s with 160 points or more will be selected automatically.  The majority of people will need a skilled job offer from a New Zealand employer to reach 160 points.

English language requirements
From November last year, you are required to provide an IELTS test result or PET, TOEFL, and Cambridge to prove your English Proficiency.  Working in New Zealand for a minimum of 1 year is NO LONGER accepted as proof of English language ability.

Citizen of certain English-speaking countries (US, UK, Australia, Canada, Republic of Ireland) can claim an exemption when they have completed at least 5 years of work or study in that country (or in New Zealand).

If you completed a recognised qualification comparable to a level 7 Bachelor Degree in one of the countries listed above (or New Zealand) where they studied at least 2 years in that country or a level 8 or higher degree with at least 1 year of study, you would be exempted from this.

All other applicants (including secondary applicants) must take an IELTS test (or other approved test) and get the required overall band score.  

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