Skilled Migrant and Essential Skills - Remuneration thresholds to change
The new thresholds are based on the New Zealand median salary and wage rate of NZD $25.50 per hour (up 2% from last year) which is equivalent to NZD $53,040 per year for a 40-hour per week job.
The remuneration threshold for Skilled Migrant Residence skilled employment has increased from $25 to $25.50 (for skill levels 1 - 3 occupations) equivalent to $53,040 per annum.
For skill level 4-5 occupations, SMC applicants must be paid NZD $38.25 or more per hour (NZD $79,560 per year), to be awarded points for skilled employment.
The new thresholds will be effective on 24 February 2020.
Kindly note that these changes to the threshold are different than the changes to be introduced to the temporary work visas in mid-2020.
Timeframe for the changes
If your expression of interest (EOI) was selected from the pool BEFORE 24 February 2020, your application will be assessed based on the old threshold.
If you apply for an Essential skills Work visa BEFORE 24 February 2020, your application will be assessed based on the old threshold.
