Does my previous work experience from India count towards New Zealand PR points, or only experience gained in New Zealand?
No, work experience gained in India does not directly award points under New Zealand's Skilled Migrant Category. Your core 6 points come from qualifications, occupational registration, or New Zealand salary alone. Only work experience gained inside New Zealand adds up to 3 extra points, at 1 point per year.
No, your work experience from India does not directly add points under New Zealand's current Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa system. Only skilled work experience gained inside New Zealand earns you extra points, though your Indian background can still strengthen your overall job application and profile.
How Points Actually Work Under the SMC
| Point Source | Counts Toward Your 6 Core Points? | Extra Points Available |
|---|---|---|
| Recognized qualifications | Yes, one of three main options | Core 6 points |
| New Zealand occupational registration | Yes, one of three main options | Core 6 points |
| Income/salary from a skilled NZ job | Yes, one of three main options | Core 6 points |
| Skilled work experience gained in New Zealand | No, it is a top-up only | 1 point per year, up to 3 years |
| Overseas work experience (e.g., India) | No | None directly |
Where Your Indian Experience Still Helps
- You still need a skilled job or job offer from an accredited New Zealand employer to apply for the SMC visa in the first place.
- Employers routinely look at your Indian work history to judge whether you have the expertise the skilled role actually needs.
- If you plan to use your qualifications for core points, get them assessed by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) first.
My Advice
Do not count on your Indian experience for points math; instead, use it to win the accredited job offer that unlocks the visa, then let your time in New Zealand build the extra 1 to 3 points once you are there. Get your NZQA qualification assessment started early, since that document alone can decide whether your core 6 points are secured before you even land a job offer.
Planning to settle in NZ after your master's?
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