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Study in New Zealand
Your Pathway to PR this 2026
From August 2026, international graduates with a Master’s degree will be able to claim an additional 6 Skilled Migrant Points.
This means Filipino students who complete their Master’s in New Zealand can enjoy a faster and more streamlined pathway when applying for Permanent Residency.
With recent shifts in New Zealand’s workforce and migration policies, this change highlights the country’s commitment to attracting skilled international talent. It’s a great time to plan your study abroad journey and take advantage of these opportunities.
As of 2025, we have a 100% visa success rate for New Zealand, you’re in safe hands.
Download your FREE Study in New Zealand Guide Now!
*Includes information on schools, courses, and fees
The table below shows the current and the upcoming Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa SMC settings for New Zealand.
Currently, Master’s degree holders are only able to claim 5 points from their degree for SMC. With the new SMC plan, they will now be able to claim 6 points, fast-tracking their application for their PR!
|
Points
|
Current SMC settings
|
New SMC Settings
|
|---|---|---|
|
6
|
Qualification: Doctoral degree Registration: New Zealand recognised registration in a specified occupation, requiring at least 6 years’ training Income: Job or job offer that pays at least 3 times median wage
|
Qualification: Doctoral degree or New Zealand master’s degree Registration: New Zealand recognised registration in a specified occupation, requiring at least 6 years’ training Income: Job or job offer that pays at least 3 times median wage
|
|
5
|
Qualification: Master’s degree Registration: New Zealand recognised registration in a specified occupation, requiring at least 5 years’ training
|
Qualification: Master’s degree gained outside New Zealand, New Zealand bachelor’s degree, honours degree, post-graduate diploma or post-graduate certificate Registration: New Zealand recognised registration in a specified occupation, requiring at least 5 years’ training
|
Source: Immigration New Zealand
Why Filipinos Choose New Zealand
🎓 World-class universities and practical programs
💰 Affordable compared to Australia and the UK
🛡️ Safe, peaceful, multicultural environment
🏥 Strong demand for nurses, IT professionals, and trades
🇵🇭 Thriving Filipino community in Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch
Book your online consultation today and know your pathway in
New Zealand