New Zealand is one of the most popular destinations for skilled professionals looking for permanent residency (PR). With its strong economy, high quality of life, and welcoming immigration policies, thousands of applicants apply every year.

To apply under the Skilled Migrant Category (SMC), the first step understands the New Zealand PR Points Calculator. This tool helps you estimate your eligibility based on your profile.

What Is the New Zealand PR Points Calculator?

The New Zealand PR Points Calculator is an eligibility system used by Immigration New Zealand to assess skilled migrants. Points are awarded based on factors such as age, skilled employment, work experience, qualifications, and partner skills.

Applicants who score the minimum required points can submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) for New Zealand PR.

Minimum Points Required for New Zealand PR

• Currently, you generally need 180 points or more to be selected under the Skilled Migrant Category.
• Points alone do not guarantee selection; your occupation must also be skilled and in demand.

New Zealand PR Points Breakdown

1. Age Points

You score more points if you are younger:

• 20–39 years: Maximum points
• 40–44 years: Moderate points
• 45–55 years: Lower points

(Applicants over 55 are not eligible under SMC)

2. Skilled Employment in New Zealand

Having a skilled job offer or current employment in New Zealand gives a significant boost.

• Skilled job offer in NZ
• Extra points if the job is outside Auckland
• Additional points for jobs in skill shortage areas

3. Work Experience

Points depend on the number of years of relevant skilled experience:

• 2–4 years: Basic points
• 6+ years: Higher points
• Bonus points if experience is:
  • In New Zealand
  • In a skill shortage occupation

4. Qualifications

Your education plays a key role:

• Bachelor’s degree
• Master’s or PhD
• Bonus points for:
  • Qualifications completed in New Zealand
  • Qualifications related to skill shortages

5. Partner Points (If Applicable)

You can earn extra points if your partner has:

• A recognized qualification
• Skilled employment in New Zealand

How to Use the New Zealand PR Points Calculator

1. Assess your age category
2. Check if your job/occupation is skilled
3. Calculate work experience points
4. Add qualification points
5. Include partner points (if applicable)
6. Add everything to get your total score

If your score meets or exceeds the required threshold, you may proceed with submitting your Expression of Interest (EOI).

Who Has the Best Chances for New Zealand PR?

• Skilled professionals aged 20–39
• Applicants with job offers in New Zealand
• Occupations listed in Green List / skill shortage
• Candidates with New Zealand work or study experience
• Applicants with strong English proficiency

Final Thoughts

The New Zealand PR Points Calculator is a powerful tool to help you understand where you stand before applying. While points are important, factors like job demand, documentation accuracy, and profile strength also play a crucial role in PR approval.

Before applying, it’s recommended to get your profile evaluated by an immigration expert to improve your chances and avoid mistakes.

Source Url: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/new-zealand-pr-points-calculator-check-your-easily-shivani-arora-jegkc