New Zealand Is Smaller Than You Think — In a Good Way
New Zealand does not have the same name recognition as Australia, Canada, or the UK when it comes to immigration. But for skilled professionals, it is one of the most accessible and liveable destinations in the world.
The country has a genuine skills shortage across healthcare, engineering, IT, construction, and education — and the immigration system is designed to fill those gaps with qualified people from abroad. For Kenyans with the right qualifications and work experience, New Zealand is a very realistic option.
The Skilled Migrant Category (SMC)
The Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) is New Zealand's primary pathway to permanent residency for skilled workers. It is a points-based system — similar in concept to Australia's skilled migration and Canada's Express Entry — but with some important differences.
Unlike Australia and Canada, New Zealand's SMC does not use a pool-and-draw system. Instead, you submit an Expression of Interest (EOI), and if you meet the threshold, you are invited to apply for residence.
How the Points System Works
Points are awarded for:
| Factor | Points |
|---|---|
| Skilled employment in New Zealand | 50–60 |
| Offer of skilled employment in NZ | 50 |
| Work experience (outside NZ) | 10–50 |
| Qualifications | 40–70 |
| Age (20–39 years) | 30 |
| Partner's qualifications or employment | 10–20 |
| Working in a region outside Auckland | 30 |
The current points threshold to be selected from the pool is 180 points. Most successful applicants score well above this.
Who Is This Visa For?
The SMC is designed for people who:
You do not need a job offer to submit an Expression of Interest — but having one significantly boosts your points and your chances.
English Language Requirements
New Zealand requires evidence of English language proficiency. Accepted tests include:
Some applicants are exempt — for example, if you are a citizen of the UK, Ireland, USA, Canada, or Australia, or if you completed a degree taught in English.
We offer in-person IELTS and PTE Academic preparation classes at our Kericho head office. If you need to meet the New Zealand English requirement, we can help you prepare.
Skills Shortage Lists
New Zealand publishes two key lists that affect your SMC application:
Long Term Skill Shortage List (LTSSL) — occupations in critical shortage. Being on this list gives you bonus points and makes it easier to get a job offer.
Regional Skill Shortage List (RSSL) — occupations in shortage in specific regions. Working in a region outside Auckland gives you 30 bonus points.
Occupations currently in high demand include:
The Application Process
Processing Times
Can My Family Come With Me?
Yes. Your partner and dependent children can be included in your residence application. Your partner can work in New Zealand on an open work visa while your application is being processed.
Path to Citizenship
After holding a New Zealand residence visa for 5 years (with at least 1,350 days physically present in New Zealand), you can apply for New Zealand citizenship. New Zealand allows dual citizenship, so you can retain your Kenyan passport.
Cost of Living
New Zealand is generally more affordable than Australia for housing outside of Auckland. Wellington, Christchurch, Hamilton, and Tauranga all offer a high quality of life at lower costs than the major Australian cities. This is worth factoring into your decision.
Is New Zealand Right for You?
New Zealand suits professionals who:
If you are unsure whether New Zealand is the right destination for your skills and goals, book a free consultation. We will look at your profile across all five of our destination countries — Australia, UK, Canada, UAE, and New Zealand — and tell you honestly where you have the strongest case.
Free Consultation
Ready to take the next step?
Speak with one of our immigration advisors. We'll assess your situation and give you a clear, honest path forward — at no cost.
