{"meta":{"schema_version":1,"generated_at":"2026-07-08T16:58:13.359Z","data_source":"https://selfmigrate.app/api/llms/pathways","schema_url":"https://selfmigrate.app/api/llms/pathways/schema","attribution_required":"When citing or republishing this data, please attribute to Self Migrate (https://selfmigrate.app) and link back to the canonical source URL on each item.","license":"Free to use with attribution. Data is curated from official government sources; verify against the cited `sources` URLs before relying on it.","regulated_advice_disclaimer":"This dataset is general immigration information only. Personalised immigration advice may only be given by agents registered with MARA (Australia), CICC (Canada), or the IAA (New Zealand). Self Migrate is not registered with any of these authorities.","rate_limit":"10 requests per minute per IP","countries":["AU","CA","NZ"],"pathway_count":12,"data_last_verified_max":"2026-04-19"},"countries":[{"schema_version":1,"country_code":"AU","country_name":"Australia","official_languages":["en"],"currency_code":"AUD","phone_code":"+61","capital_city":"Canberra","timezones":["Australia/Perth","Australia/Adelaide","Australia/Brisbane","Australia/Sydney","Australia/Hobart"],"regulator":{"name":"Department of Home Affairs","short_name":"DHA","url":"https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/"},"regulated_advice_framework":{"statute":"Migration Act 1958 (Cth), section 276 (prohibition on unregistered immigration assistance)","regulator":"Office of the Migration Agents Registration Authority (MARA)","regulator_url":"https://www.mara.gov.au/","advice_vs_information_note":"The Migration Act 1958 restricts paid immigration assistance to registered migration agents (MARA) and Australian legal practitioners. Self-Migrate publishes general information, explainers, and eligibility tools — unregulated information — and does not provide personalised immigration assistance. Personalised recommendations for fee would require MARA registration or structuring the service so no consideration is exchanged for the advice portion.","penalty_for_unlicensed_advice":"Up to 10 years imprisonment and/or significant fines for giving immigration assistance while unregistered (Migration Act 1958 s. 281)."},"last_verified":"2026-04-19","sources":[{"title":"Department of Home Affairs — Immigration and citizenship","url":"https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/","accessed":"2026-04-19","publisher":"Department of Home Affairs","is_primary":true},{"title":"Office of the Migration Agents Registration Authority (MARA)","url":"https://www.mara.gov.au/","accessed":"2026-04-19","publisher":"MARA","is_primary":true},{"title":"SkillSelect — Expression of Interest system","url":"https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/working-in-australia/skillselect","accessed":"2026-04-19","publisher":"Department of Home Affairs","is_primary":true},{"title":"Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL)","url":"https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/working-in-australia/skill-occupation-list","accessed":"2026-04-19","publisher":"Department of Home Affairs","is_primary":true}],"notes_for_south_africans":["SA is not on Australia's Working Holiday Maker (subclass 417/462) bilateral partner list — no direct Working Holiday route for South Africans.","SA passport holders need a visa for any visit to Australia; there is no Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) eligibility for SA passports.","SA English-medium education qualifies for most skills assessments without translation; verify with the specific assessing authority.","IELTS and PTE Academic test centres widely available in Johannesburg, Cape Town, Pretoria, Durban and Port Elizabeth.","Australia has a large and established SA diaspora — especially Perth, Sydney, and Brisbane — with professional and social community networks."],"flags":[{"code":"points-cutoff-rising","severity":"info","message":"Invitation cutoffs for subclass 189 have hovered around 85+ points through 2025-2026 for most non-priority occupations. A 65-point minimum meets eligibility but not competitiveness.","last_reviewed":"2026-04-19"},{"code":"csol-replaced-stsol-mltssl","severity":"info","message":"The former STSOL/MLTSSL/ROL structure was consolidated into the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL) effective 7 December 2024. Older references to subclass-specific lists may be out of date.","last_reviewed":"2026-04-19"}]},{"schema_version":1,"country_code":"CA","country_name":"Canada","official_languages":["en","fr"],"currency_code":"CAD","phone_code":"+1","capital_city":"Ottawa","timezones":["America/Vancouver","America/Edmonton","America/Winnipeg","America/Toronto","America/Halifax","America/St_Johns"],"regulator":{"name":"Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada","short_name":"IRCC","url":"https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship.html"},"regulated_advice_framework":{"statute":"Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA), section 91","regulator":"College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants (CICC)","regulator_url":"https://college-ic.ca/","advice_vs_information_note":"IRPA s. 91 restricts paid immigration advice and representation to lawyers (including Quebec notaries), paralegals in good standing, and Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultants (RCICs) licensed by the CICC. Self-Migrate publishes information, explainers, and eligibility tools — unregulated information — and does not provide personalised paid advice. Personalised recommendations for consideration would require partnering with a licensed representative or structuring the service so no consideration is exchanged for the advice portion.","penalty_for_unlicensed_advice":"Up to 5 years imprisonment and/or CAD $200,000 fine under IRPA s. 91."},"last_verified":"2026-04-19","sources":[{"title":"Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada — homepage","url":"https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship.html","accessed":"2026-04-19","publisher":"Government of Canada","is_primary":true},{"title":"College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants","url":"https://college-ic.ca/","accessed":"2026-04-19","publisher":"CICC","is_primary":true},{"title":"Immigration Levels Plan 2026–2028","url":"https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/news/notices/supplementary-immigration-levels-2026-2028.html","accessed":"2026-04-19","publisher":"IRCC","is_primary":true},{"title":"CIC News — 2026 Express Entry changes","url":"https://www.cicnews.com/2025/12/these-are-the-biggest-changes-coming-to-express-entry-in-2026-1263223.html","accessed":"2026-04-19","publisher":"CIC News","is_primary":false}],"notes_for_south_africans":["SA is NOT in Canada's International Experience Canada (IEC) bilateral partners — no direct Working Holiday route.","SA passport holders need biometrics + TRV for short-term entry; eTA available only if prior Canadian visa in the last 10 years or a valid US non-immigrant visa.","SA English-medium education generally qualifies for Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) without translation.","IELTS General and CELPIP test centres available in Johannesburg, Cape Town, Pretoria and Durban."],"flags":[{"code":"immigration-levels-contraction-2026","severity":"warning","message":"Canada is in the middle of a deliberate PR contraction. Total admissions are held at 380,000/year for 2026–2028. Several business and caregiver streams are paused or closed. Verify the status of every pathway at application time.","last_reviewed":"2026-04-19"},{"code":"fee-increase-2026-04-30","severity":"info","message":"IRCC fees increased on 30 April 2026. Principal EE/economic PR processing fee rose from CAD $605 to CAD $700.","last_reviewed":"2026-04-19"}]},{"schema_version":1,"country_code":"NZ","country_name":"New Zealand","official_languages":["en","mi"],"currency_code":"NZD","phone_code":"+64","capital_city":"Wellington","timezones":["Pacific/Auckland","Pacific/Chatham"],"regulator":{"name":"Immigration New Zealand","short_name":"INZ","url":"https://www.immigration.govt.nz/"},"regulated_advice_framework":{"statute":"Immigration Advisers Licensing Act 2007","regulator":"Immigration Advisers Authority (IAA)","regulator_url":"https://www.iaa.govt.nz/","advice_vs_information_note":"Under the Immigration Advisers Licensing Act 2007, \"immigration advice\" — tailored recommendations to a specific person's situation — is regulated and must be given by licensed advisers, NZ-qualified lawyers with practising certificates, or listed exempt bodies (Community Law Centres, Citizens Advice Bureau). \"Information\" — publishing publicly available MBIE/INZ material, generic blog content, helping someone fill in a form using their own information — is not regulated. Self-Migrate publishes information and generic eligibility tools; it does not provide tailored recommendations for consideration without a licensed partner.","penalty_for_unlicensed_advice":"Up to 7 years imprisonment and/or NZD $100,000 fine. Active enforcement by the IAA."},"last_verified":"2026-04-19","sources":[{"title":"Immigration New Zealand — homepage","url":"https://www.immigration.govt.nz/","accessed":"2026-04-19","publisher":"Immigration New Zealand","is_primary":true},{"title":"Immigration Advisers Authority","url":"https://www.iaa.govt.nz/","accessed":"2026-04-19","publisher":"IAA","is_primary":true},{"title":"Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE)","url":"https://www.mbie.govt.nz/","accessed":"2026-04-19","publisher":"MBIE","is_primary":true},{"title":"INZ — Immigration median wage (effective dates)","url":"https://www.immigration.govt.nz/employ-migrants/median-wage","accessed":"2026-04-19","publisher":"Immigration New Zealand","is_primary":true},{"title":"Green List occupations","url":"https://www.immigration.govt.nz/new-zealand-visas/preparing-a-visa-application/working-in-nz/the-green-list","accessed":"2026-04-19","publisher":"Immigration New Zealand","is_primary":true}],"notes_for_south_africans":["SA is NOT in NZ's Working Holiday Visa network. SA citizens aged 18–30 cannot use this pathway — a hard gap versus Australia, which does offer WHV to SA.","SA passport holders are NOT eligible for the NZeTA electronic travel authority. A full Visitor Visa is required for short visits (~NZD $211 + $100 IVL; 20–45 working days processing).","English-language exemption does not apply to SA applicants. SMC and Green List routes require IELTS 6.5 (or equivalent PTE/TOEFL/OET).","SAPS police clearance takes 4–10+ weeks and must be dated within 6 months of the application. Chest X-ray mandatory for stays >6 months.","Licensed Immigration Adviser (LIA) fees typically NZD $3,000–$15,000+; optional but recommended for SMC and investor visas."],"flags":[{"code":"median-wage-2026-03","severity":"info","message":"Immigration median wage rose to NZD $35.00/hr on 9 March 2026 (from $33.56). Multiples used across SMC income bands: 1.5× = $52.50, 2× = $70.00, 3× = $105.00.","last_reviewed":"2026-04-19"},{"code":"anzsco-to-nol-transition","severity":"warning","message":"ANZSCO is being phased out; the National Occupation List (NOL) replaced it from November 2024 and became fully enforced for AEWV on 3 November 2025. SMC still partly references ANZSCO during the transition.","last_reviewed":"2026-04-19"},{"code":"smc-redesign-august-2026","severity":"warning","message":"Major Skilled Migrant Category redesign lands August 2026 with two new sub-pathways (Trades and Technician Pathway; Skilled Work Experience Pathway). Some point values shift.","last_reviewed":"2026-04-19"},{"code":"sa-friction-stack","severity":"warning","message":"SA citizens face an unusually friction-heavy compliance stack: no WHV, no NZeTA, mandatory police clearance + medicals, full English test required. Budget ZAR 15,000–25,000 for compliance paperwork before submitting.","last_reviewed":"2026-04-19"}]}],"pathways":[{"schema_version":1,"pathway_id":"au.subclass-189","display_name":"Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)","short_name":"189","country":"AU","category":"economic","outcome":{"outcome_type":"permanent-residence","duration_initial_months":null,"leads_to_pr":true,"years_to_citizenship":4},"summary":"The Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) is Australia's primary points-tested permanent residence pathway for skilled workers who are not sponsored by an employer, nominated by a state/territory, or sponsored by an eligible family member. Applicants submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect; invitations are issued per round based on points ranking.","status":"open","last_verified":"2026-04-19","effective_from":"2012-07-01","effective_to":null,"superseded_by":null,"sources":[{"title":"Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) — Department of Home Affairs","url":"https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/skilled-independent-189","accessed":"2026-04-19","publisher":"Department of Home Affairs","is_primary":true},{"title":"Skilled Independent — Points tested stream","url":"https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/skilled-independent-189/points-tested","accessed":"2026-04-19","publisher":"Department of Home Affairs","is_primary":true},{"title":"Points test for skilled migration","url":"https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/working-in-australia/skillselect/points-tables","accessed":"2026-04-19","publisher":"Department of Home Affairs","is_primary":true},{"title":"Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL)","url":"https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/working-in-australia/skill-occupation-list","accessed":"2026-04-19","publisher":"Department of Home Affairs","is_primary":true},{"title":"SkillSelect invitation rounds","url":"https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/working-in-australia/skillselect/invitation-rounds","accessed":"2026-04-19","publisher":"Department of Home Affairs","is_primary":true}],"eligibility":{"all":[{"id":"age.under-45","type":"number_between","field":"personal.age","min":18,"max":44,"explain":"Must be under 45 at the time of invitation. 0 points above 44; no pathway."},{"id":"occupation.on-csol","type":"lookup_contains","field":"work.occupation_codes","lookup":"au.csol","explain":"Nominated occupation must appear on the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL) and match the applicant's skills assessment."},{"id":"skills.positive-assessment","type":"boolean_true","field":"work.has_positive_skills_assessment_au","explain":"Must hold a positive skills assessment from the relevant Australian assessing authority for the nominated occupation (e.g. ACS for IT, Engineers Australia for engineering, VETASSESS for general professions)."},{"id":"language.competent-english","type":"language_minimum","field":"language_tests","test":"ielts-general","overall":6,"subscores":{"listening":6,"reading":6,"writing":6,"speaking":6},"note":"IELTS 6.0 in each band, or equivalent PTE Academic / TOEFL iBT / OET / CAE. Higher scores earn more points (Proficient 10 pts, Superior 20 pts).","explain":"Competent English (IELTS 6.0 each band) is the minimum threshold. Superior English scores meaningfully more points."},{"id":"eoi.submitted","type":"boolean_true","field":"work.eoi_submitted_au","explain":"An Expression of Interest must be submitted and active in SkillSelect. Invitations are issued per round, not on application."},{"id":"points.minimum","type":"number_min","field":"scoring.au_points","value":65,"explain":"Minimum pass mark is 65 points. In practice, competitive invitations require 85+ points for non-priority occupations."},{"id":"health.meets-requirement","type":"boolean_true","field":"health.meets_requirement","severity":"advisory","explain":"Must meet Australian health requirements. Applicants with significant health costs may be refused."},{"id":"character.meets-requirement","type":"boolean_true","field":"character.meets_requirement","severity":"advisory","explain":"Must pass character test including police clearances from every country lived in for 12+ months in the last 10 years."}]},"scoring":{"scheme":"au-points-test","max_score":130,"pass_threshold":65,"combine":"additive","notes":"Australia's skilled migration points test combines age, English, skills, qualifications, and a range of bonus categories. 65 points is the eligibility floor; invitation cut-offs vary by round and occupation ceiling. Competitive scores sit at 85+ points for most professions.","factors":[{"id":"age","group":"core","label":"Age","max_single":30,"input":"personal.age","mapping":[{"match":{"min":18,"max":24},"points":25},{"match":{"min":25,"max":32},"points":30},{"match":{"min":33,"max":39},"points":25},{"match":{"min":40,"max":44},"points":15},{"match":{"min":45},"points":0}]},{"id":"english","group":"core","label":"English language ability","max_single":20,"input":"language.level","mapping":[{"match":{"equals":"superior"},"points":20,"note":"IELTS 8.0 each / PTE 79 each / equivalent"},{"match":{"equals":"proficient"},"points":10,"note":"IELTS 7.0 each / PTE 65 each / equivalent"},{"match":{"equals":"competent"},"points":0,"note":"IELTS 6.0 each — meets threshold but no points"}]},{"id":"qualifications","group":"core","label":"Educational qualifications","max_single":20,"input":"education.highest_level","mapping":[{"match":{"equals":"phd"},"points":20},{"match":{"equals":"doctorate"},"points":20},{"match":{"equals":"masters"},"points":15},{"match":{"equals":"honours"},"points":15},{"match":{"equals":"bachelor"},"points":15},{"match":{"equals":"bachelors"},"points":15},{"match":{"equals":"diploma"},"points":10},{"match":{"equals":"trade-cert"},"points":10},{"match":{"equals":"trade"},"points":10},{"match":{"equals":"recognised"},"points":10},{"match":{"equals":"high-school"},"points":0},{"match":{"equals":"none"},"points":0}]},{"id":"australian-work-experience","group":"core","label":"Australian skilled work experience","max_single":20,"input":"work.years_of_australian_skilled_work","mapping":[{"match":{"equals":0},"points":0},{"match":{"min":1,"max":2},"points":5},{"match":{"min":3,"max":4},"points":10},{"match":{"min":5,"max":7},"points":15},{"match":{"min":8},"points":20}]},{"id":"overseas-work-experience","group":"core","label":"Overseas skilled work experience","max_single":15,"input":"work.years_of_overseas_skilled_work","mapping":[{"match":{"equals":0},"points":0},{"match":{"min":1,"max":2},"points":0},{"match":{"min":3,"max":4},"points":5},{"match":{"min":5,"max":7},"points":10},{"match":{"min":8},"points":15}],"note":"Home Affairs overseas-experience scale (corrected 2026-05-31 to match the standalone calculator + OVERSEAS_WORK_EXPERIENCE_POINTS): under 3yr = 0, 3-<5yr = 5, 5-<8yr = 10, 8yr+ = 15. Caps at 15."},{"id":"partner","group":"bonus","label":"Partner / spouse skills","max_single":10,"input":"spouse.status","mapping":[{"match":{"equals":"australian_citizen_or_pr"},"points":10},{"match":{"equals":"skilled_and_competent_english"},"points":10,"note":"Partner has competent English + positive skills assessment in a CSOL occupation"},{"match":{"equals":"competent_english_only"},"points":5},{"match":{"equals":"none"},"points":10,"note":"Single / no partner also scores 10 (applicant is not disadvantaged by being single)"},{"match":{"equals":"not_eligible"},"points":0}]},{"id":"australian-study","group":"bonus","label":"Australian study requirement","max_single":5,"input":"education.meets_australian_study","mapping":[{"match":{"equals":true},"points":5},{"match":{"equals":false},"points":0}],"note":"Completed at least 2 years of eligible study in Australia."},{"id":"specialist-education","group":"bonus","label":"Specialist education (STEM)","max_single":5,"input":"education.specialist_stem","mapping":[{"match":{"equals":true},"points":5},{"match":{"equals":false},"points":0}],"note":"Masters by research or Doctorate in a STEM field from an Australian institution."},{"id":"community-language","group":"bonus","label":"Accredited community language","max_single":5,"input":"language.naati_accredited","mapping":[{"match":{"equals":true},"points":5},{"match":{"equals":false},"points":0}],"note":"NAATI-accredited translator/interpreter credential."},{"id":"regional-study","group":"bonus","label":"Regional study in Australia","max_single":5,"input":"education.completed_in_regional_area","mapping":[{"match":{"equals":true},"points":5},{"match":{"equals":false},"points":0}]},{"id":"professional-year","group":"bonus","label":"Professional Year programme","max_single":5,"input":"work.completed_professional_year_au","mapping":[{"match":{"equals":true},"points":5},{"match":{"equals":false},"points":0}],"note":"Completed a Professional Year programme in Australia (accounting, engineering, or ICT)."}]},"costs":{"currency":"AUD","conversion":{"to":"ZAR","rate":11.8,"rate_date":"2026-04-19"},"items":[{"id":"principal-application","label":"Principal applicant application charge","amount":4640,"note":"Paid at time of application after invitation received."},{"id":"partner-application","label":"Partner / secondary applicant aged 18+","amount":2320,"optional":true},{"id":"dependent-child","label":"Dependent child under 18","amount":1160,"optional":true},{"id":"skills-assessment-acs","label":"Skills assessment — ACS (IT occupations)","amount":510,"optional":true,"note":"ACS fee range 500-530 depending on application type. Other assessing authorities vary."},{"id":"english-test","label":"IELTS / PTE Academic test","amount":430,"note":"IELTS approx AUD 430 in SA; PTE Academic similar."},{"id":"medical-exam","label":"Health examination (per person)","amount":500,"note":"Through Bupa Medical Visa Services (SA provider); approx AUD 400-600."},{"id":"police-clearance-sa","label":"SA Police Clearance Certificate","amount":50,"note":"SAPS clearance; equivalent to approximately R750."}],"estimated_total_single":5130,"estimated_total_family_of_three":8650,"note":"Single-applicant estimate covers visa fee + IELTS + skills assessment + medical + police clearance. Family total assumes primary + spouse + 1 child. Excludes translations, ImmiAccount pre-application prep, and any state-specific fees (irrelevant for 189 — no state nomination)."},"processing_time":{"p50_days":365,"p90_days":540,"range_days":[180,720],"last_updated":"2026-04-19","source_note":"DHA publishes processing time estimates as 50th and 90th percentile. 189 visas in 2026 typically grant 8-18 months from application lodgement, AFTER receiving the invitation. EOI-to-invitation wait is a separate variable that depends on points score and occupation ceiling."},"dependency_paths":[{"id":"direct-189","label":"Direct 189 application","sequence":["au.subclass-189"],"note":"Submit EOI in SkillSelect, wait for invitation, lodge visa application."},{"id":"bridging-via-485","label":"485 graduate → 189","sequence":["au.subclass-485","au.subclass-189"],"note":"Temporary Graduate visa holders often accumulate Australian work experience before applying for 189."}],"notes_for_south_africans":["South African Honours degree typically assessed as AQF Bachelor Degree by most authorities; some (ACS) may treat it as a Bachelor plus post-graduate credential for skill-level mapping.","SAPS Police Clearance is accepted by DHA; allow 4-8 weeks for processing through SAPS.","SA Bupa Medical Visa Services panel clinics are available in Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban, and Pretoria.","Large SA expat community in Perth and Brisbane makes settlement relatively smooth.","ACS skill assessment for SA software engineers requires verification that employment duties match ANZSCO code descriptors — keep detailed reference letters."],"flags":[{"code":"invitation-backlog","severity":"warning","message":"Invitation rounds have become less predictable through 2025-2026. Applicants with 65-75 points are seeing very long EOI waits for non-priority occupations. Budget 12+ months EOI-to-invitation for mid-score profiles.","last_reviewed":"2026-04-19"},{"code":"csol-consolidation","severity":"info","message":"Occupation list structure changed in December 2024 — former STSOL, MLTSSL, and ROL now consolidated into a single Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL) for subclass 189 assessment.","last_reviewed":"2026-04-19"}],"metadata":{"internal_notes":"Scoring factors here reflect the canonical points table used by the existing src/lib/constants/points-tables.ts. Keep this YAML in sync when DHA changes the points grid (historically rare — no changes since 2018)."},"source_url":"https://selfmigrate.app/guides/subclass-189"},{"schema_version":1,"pathway_id":"au.subclass-190","display_name":"Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)","short_name":"190","country":"AU","category":"economic","outcome":{"outcome_type":"permanent-residence","duration_initial_months":null,"leads_to_pr":true,"years_to_citizenship":4},"summary":"The Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190) is a points-tested permanent residence pathway for applicants nominated by an Australian state or territory government. Nomination adds 5 points to your EOI. Holders commit to live in the nominating state/territory for an initial 2-year period, though this is a moral rather than legal obligation.","status":"open","last_verified":"2026-04-19","effective_from":"2012-07-01","effective_to":null,"superseded_by":null,"sources":[{"title":"Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190) — Department of Home Affairs","url":"https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/skilled-nominated-190","accessed":"2026-04-19","publisher":"Department of Home Affairs","is_primary":true},{"title":"State and territory nominated migration programmes","url":"https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/working-in-australia/state-territory-visa-nomination","accessed":"2026-04-19","publisher":"Department of Home Affairs","is_primary":true},{"title":"Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL)","url":"https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/working-in-australia/skill-occupation-list","accessed":"2026-04-19","publisher":"Department of Home Affairs","is_primary":true}],"eligibility":{"all":[{"id":"age.under-45","type":"number_between","field":"personal.age","min":18,"max":44,"explain":"Must be under 45 at time of invitation."},{"id":"occupation.on-state-list","type":"boolean_true","field":"work.occupation_on_any_state_list","explain":"Nominated occupation must be on the nominating state or territory's 190 occupation list. Each state publishes its own list and eligibility criteria."},{"id":"state.nomination-received","type":"boolean_true","field":"work.has_state_nomination","explain":"Must receive a nomination from an Australian state or territory government. Nomination is a separate application to the state, not to DHA."},{"id":"skills.positive-assessment","type":"boolean_true","field":"work.has_positive_skills_assessment_au","explain":"Positive skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority."},{"id":"language.competent-english","type":"language_minimum","field":"language_tests","test":"ielts-general","overall":6,"subscores":{"listening":6,"reading":6,"writing":6,"speaking":6},"explain":"Competent English (IELTS 6.0 each band). Some states require Proficient English (IELTS 7.0) in their nomination criteria."},{"id":"eoi.submitted-190","type":"boolean_true","field":"work.eoi_submitted_au","explain":"EOI must specify subclass 190 and the nominating state/territory."},{"id":"points.minimum","type":"number_min","field":"scoring.au_points","value":65,"explain":"Minimum 65 points. With state nomination (+5) this typically means a base points test result of 60 before nomination bonus."},{"id":"state.commitment","type":"boolean_true","field":"preferences.intent_to_live_nominating_state","severity":"advisory","explain":"Moral commitment to live in the nominating state/territory for the initial 2 years."}]},"scoring":{"scheme":"au-points-test","max_score":135,"pass_threshold":65,"combine":"additive","inherits_from":"au.subclass-189","notes":"Inherits the full subclass-189 points grid, plus 5 bonus points for state/territory nomination (brings theoretical max from 130 to 135). State eligibility criteria often require higher base scores than 65 — verify individual state requirements at application time.","factors":[{"id":"state-nomination-bonus","group":"additional","label":"State or territory nomination","max_single":5,"input":"work.has_state_nomination","mapping":[{"match":{"equals":true},"points":5},{"match":{"equals":false},"points":0}]}]},"costs":{"currency":"AUD","conversion":{"to":"ZAR","rate":11.8,"rate_date":"2026-04-19"},"items":[{"id":"principal-application","label":"Principal applicant application charge","amount":4640},{"id":"partner-application","label":"Partner / secondary applicant aged 18+","amount":2320,"optional":true},{"id":"dependent-child","label":"Dependent child under 18","amount":1160,"optional":true},{"id":"state-nomination-fee","label":"State nomination fee (varies by state)","amount":300,"note":"Ranges from AUD 0 (Tasmania) to AUD 550 (South Australia). NSW and Victoria around AUD 300."},{"id":"skills-assessment","label":"Skills assessment fee","amount":510,"optional":true},{"id":"english-test","label":"IELTS / PTE Academic","amount":430},{"id":"medical-exam","label":"Health examination (per person)","amount":500},{"id":"police-clearance-sa","label":"SA Police Clearance Certificate","amount":50}],"estimated_total_single":5430,"estimated_total_family_of_three":8950,"note":"Includes state nomination fee estimate; actual fee varies by state. Excludes translations and any state-specific additional requirements (e.g. some states require specific documents or interviews)."},"processing_time":{"p50_days":270,"p90_days":450,"range_days":[150,600],"last_updated":"2026-04-19","source_note":"190 visas typically process faster than 189 because state pre-nomination has already validated the applicant's occupation demand. Median 9 months from lodgement, but state-nomination wait is a separate variable (typically 1-4 months on top)."},"dependency_paths":[{"id":"direct-190","label":"Direct 190 via state nomination","sequence":["au.subclass-190"],"note":"Apply to state for nomination, submit EOI with nomination, lodge visa application after invitation."},{"id":"491-to-190","label":"Less common — 491 regional to 190","sequence":["au.subclass-491","au.subclass-190"],"note":"Unusual. Most 491 holders go to 191 PR, not 190."}],"notes_for_south_africans":["State occupation lists and criteria change frequently — verify the current list of each state before committing to an occupation or state plan.","NSW and Victoria nominate the largest volumes; SA, WA, Tasmania, ACT and NT often have slightly easier criteria but smaller allocations.","Some states require demonstrable intent to live in the state — evidence includes prior visits, job applications in the state, or family connections.","State nomination fees range from AUD 0 (Tasmania) to AUD 550 (South Australia)."],"flags":[{"code":"state-program-variability","severity":"warning","message":"State nomination programs are separate from the federal visa and change annually. Nomination priorities, minimum scores, and eligible occupations vary by state and can close mid-year when allocations are exhausted.","last_reviewed":"2026-04-19"}],"source_url":"https://selfmigrate.app/guides/subclass-190"},{"schema_version":1,"pathway_id":"au.subclass-491","display_name":"Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491)","short_name":"491","country":"AU","category":"regional","outcome":{"outcome_type":"work-to-residence","duration_initial_months":60,"leads_to_pr":true,"years_to_citizenship":7},"summary":"The Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491) is a 5-year provisional visa for skilled workers nominated by a state/territory government or sponsored by an eligible family member to live and work in a designated regional area of Australia. After 3 years of regional residence and meeting income requirements, holders apply for the permanent subclass 191 Skilled Regional visa.","status":"open","last_verified":"2026-04-19","effective_from":"2019-11-16","effective_to":null,"superseded_by":null,"sources":[{"title":"Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491) — Department of Home Affairs","url":"https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/skilled-work-regional-provisional-491","accessed":"2026-04-19","publisher":"Department of Home Affairs","is_primary":true},{"title":"Designated regional areas for skilled migration","url":"https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/working-in-australia/regional-migration/eligible-regional-areas","accessed":"2026-04-19","publisher":"Department of Home Affairs","is_primary":true},{"title":"Skilled Regional visa (subclass 191) — pathway from 491","url":"https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/skilled-regional-191","accessed":"2026-04-19","publisher":"Department of Home Affairs","is_primary":true}],"eligibility":{"all":[{"id":"age.under-45","type":"number_between","field":"personal.age","min":18,"max":44,"explain":"Must be under 45 at time of invitation."},{"id":"occupation.on-regional-list","type":"boolean_true","field":"work.occupation_on_any_state_regional_list","explain":"Occupation must be on the regional occupation list of the nominating state/territory, or eligible for family sponsorship."},{"id":"nomination.or-family-sponsor","type":"any_true","fields":["work.has_regional_nomination","work.has_regional_family_sponsor"],"explain":"Either state/territory nomination OR sponsorship by an eligible family member living in a designated regional area."},{"id":"skills.positive-assessment","type":"boolean_true","field":"work.has_positive_skills_assessment_au","explain":"Positive skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority."},{"id":"language.competent-english","type":"language_minimum","field":"language_tests","test":"ielts-general","overall":6,"subscores":{"listening":6,"reading":6,"writing":6,"speaking":6},"explain":"Competent English (IELTS 6.0 each band) is the minimum. Many regional nomination schemes require Proficient English."},{"id":"eoi.submitted-491","type":"boolean_true","field":"work.eoi_submitted_au","explain":"EOI must specify subclass 491 and the regional nomination basis."},{"id":"points.minimum","type":"number_min","field":"scoring.au_points","value":65,"explain":"Minimum 65 points. With regional nomination (+15) this means a base of 50 points before the bonus, BUT most regional programs require higher base scores."},{"id":"regional.commitment","type":"boolean_true","field":"preferences.intent_to_live_regional","explain":"Must live and work in a designated regional area for the full 5-year provisional period to qualify for the 191 PR transition."}]},"scoring":{"scheme":"au-points-test","max_score":145,"pass_threshold":65,"combine":"additive","inherits_from":"au.subclass-189","notes":"Inherits the full subclass-189 points grid, plus 15 bonus points for regional nomination or eligible family sponsorship (brings theoretical max from 130 to 145). 15 points is the largest single bonus available in the AU points test, making 491 the easiest points threshold to meet.","factors":[{"id":"regional-nomination-bonus","group":"additional","label":"Regional nomination or eligible family sponsor","max_single":15,"input":"work.has_regional_nomination_or_sponsor","mapping":[{"match":{"equals":true},"points":15},{"match":{"equals":false},"points":0}]}]},"costs":{"currency":"AUD","conversion":{"to":"ZAR","rate":11.8,"rate_date":"2026-04-19"},"items":[{"id":"principal-application","label":"Principal applicant application charge","amount":4640},{"id":"partner-application","label":"Partner / secondary applicant aged 18+","amount":2320,"optional":true},{"id":"dependent-child","label":"Dependent child under 18","amount":1160,"optional":true},{"id":"state-regional-nomination-fee","label":"Regional nomination fee (varies by state)","amount":300,"note":"Similar range to 190 state nomination fees."},{"id":"skills-assessment","label":"Skills assessment fee","amount":510,"optional":true},{"id":"english-test","label":"IELTS / PTE Academic","amount":430},{"id":"medical-exam","label":"Health examination (per person)","amount":500},{"id":"police-clearance-sa","label":"SA Police Clearance Certificate","amount":50},{"id":"subclass-191-transition","label":"Future subclass 191 application (after 3 years regional residence)","amount":485,"optional":true,"note":"Paid 3+ years later when transitioning to permanent 191 visa."}],"estimated_total_single":5430,"estimated_total_family_of_three":8950,"note":"Initial 491 costs only. 191 transition adds ~AUD 485 plus a fresh health examination. Total PR-pathway cost (491 + 191) is comparable to 189/190 over time, just spread across 3+ years."},"processing_time":{"p50_days":180,"p90_days":365,"range_days":[90,450],"last_updated":"2026-04-19","source_note":"491 typically processes faster than 189/190 as regional programs have smaller applicant pools. Median 6 months from lodgement."},"dependency_paths":[{"id":"direct-491-to-191","label":"491 → 191 PR","sequence":["au.subclass-491","au.subclass-191"],"note":"Standard regional pathway — 5 years on 491, apply for 191 after 3 years regional residence & income requirements met."},{"id":"482-to-494-to-191","label":"Employer-sponsored regional alternative (not 491)","sequence":["au.subclass-482","au.subclass-494","au.subclass-191"],"note":"Alternative regional pathway via employer sponsorship — included here for context but not strictly a 491 dependency."}],"notes_for_south_africans":["Designated regional areas include ALL of Australia except major metro: Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane are the only excluded cities. Perth, Adelaide, Hobart, Canberra, Darwin, and all other cities are \"regional\" for this visa.","Perth and Adelaide have strong SA communities and count as regional — a practical choice for many SA applicants.","Regional occupation lists are typically broader than 189/190 lists, giving more occupations access to this pathway.","Income requirement for the 191 transition is currently AUD 53,900/year taxable income during the 491 provisional period."],"flags":[{"code":"long-pathway-total","severity":"info","message":"491 → 191 total pathway is 8+ years from arrival to citizenship (5 yrs provisional → 4 yrs PR residence for citizenship). Faster processing at the 491 stage is offset by longer overall timeline.","last_reviewed":"2026-04-19"},{"code":"regional-commitment-enforcement","severity":"warning","message":"Failing to live and work in the regional area for 3+ years breaks the 191 transition pathway — leaving the applicant on a temporary visa that expires at 5 years with no PR grant.","last_reviewed":"2026-04-19"},{"code":"494-overlap","severity":"info","message":"Subclass 494 (employer-sponsored regional) covers similar ground to 491 but is employer-driven. Consider 494 if you have an Australian employer willing to sponsor.","last_reviewed":"2026-04-19"}],"source_url":"https://selfmigrate.app/guides/subclass-491"},{"schema_version":1,"pathway_id":"ca.atlantic-immigration-programme","display_name":"Atlantic Immigration Programme (AIP)","short_name":"AIP","country":"CA","category":"regional","outcome":{"outcome_type":"permanent-residence","duration_initial_months":null,"leads_to_pr":true,"years_to_citizenship":3},"summary":"The Atlantic Immigration Programme is an employer-led pathway to PR for skilled workers with a job offer from a designated employer in one of the four Atlantic provinces (Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, Newfoundland and Labrador). It has lower language thresholds than FSW (CLB 5 for TEER 0–3) and requires a mandatory settlement plan.","status":"open","last_verified":"2026-04-19","effective_from":"2022-01-01","effective_to":null,"superseded_by":null,"sources":[{"title":"Atlantic Immigration Program — Canada.ca","url":"https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/immigrate-canada/atlantic-immigration.html","accessed":"2026-04-19","publisher":"IRCC","is_primary":true}],"eligibility":{"all":[{"id":"employer.designated","type":"boolean_true","field":"work.aip_designated_employer_offer","explain":"Must hold a job offer from an employer designated under the Atlantic Immigration Programme in NS, NB, PE or NL."},{"id":"intent.atlantic","type":"enum_in","field":"work.intent_to_live_province","values":["NS","NB","PE","NL"],"explain":"Must intend to live in Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island or Newfoundland and Labrador."},{"id":"experience.work","type":"number_min","field":"work.years_of_skilled_work","value":1,"severity":"advisory","explain":"At least 1 year (1,560 hours) of work experience in the last 5 years in a skill level eligible for the programme."},{"id":"education.secondary-minimum","type":"enum_in","field":"education.highest_level","values":["high-school","trade-cert","diploma","bachelor","honours","masters","phd"],"explain":"Canadian secondary-school equivalent or higher; foreign credentials require an ECA."},{"id":"language.clb5","type":"language_minimum","field":"language_tests","test":"ielts-general","overall":5,"subscores":{"listening":5,"reading":4,"writing":5,"speaking":5},"note":"CLB 5 across all four skills (approximate IELTS General mapping L5.0/R4.0/W5.0/S5.0).","explain":"Language proof at CLB 5 for TEER 0, 1, 2 or 3 jobs (CLB 4 for TEER 4)."},{"id":"settlement-plan.complete","type":"boolean_true","field":"work.aip_settlement_plan_complete","explain":"A mandatory settlement plan completed with a designated settlement service provider is required before applying."},{"id":"funds.settlement","type":"number_min","field":"finances.savings_equivalent_cad","value":3500,"severity":"advisory","explain":"Sufficient settlement funds to support the applicant and family, unless already legally working in Canada."}]},"costs":{"currency":"CAD","conversion":{"to":"ZAR","rate":13.43,"rate_date":"2026-04-19"},"items":[{"id":"principal-processing","label":"Principal applicant processing fee","amount":700,"effective_from":"2026-04-30"},{"id":"spouse-processing","label":"Spouse / common-law partner","amount":590,"effective_from":"2026-04-30"},{"id":"dependent-child","label":"Dependent child","amount":175,"effective_from":"2026-04-30","optional":true},{"id":"rprf","label":"Right of Permanent Residence Fee","amount":600},{"id":"biometrics-single","label":"Biometrics (single)","amount":85},{"id":"biometrics-family","label":"Biometrics (family)","amount":170,"alternative_to":"biometrics-single","optional":true}],"estimated_total_single":1385,"estimated_total_family_of_three":2860},"processing_time":{"median_days":180,"range_days":[120,365],"last_updated":"2026-04-19","source_note":"IRCC service standard is approximately 6 months. Employer designation and settlement-plan issuance can add 1–3 months on the provincial side before the federal application is submitted."},"dependency_paths":[{"id":"aip-direct","label":"AIP employer-led PR","sequence":["ca.atlantic-immigration-programme"],"note":"Single-step pathway from designated-employer offer to PR."}],"notes_for_south_africans":["Strong pathway for SA applicants with secondary education plus a job offer in healthcare, construction or hospitality.","Atlantic provinces are actively recruiting at 2026 job fairs; SA healthcare workers are a target cohort.","Lower CLB threshold (CLB 5) than FSW (CLB 7) — meaningful for applicants whose IELTS lands in the mid-6 range."],"flags":[{"code":"aip-admissions-target-2026","severity":"info","message":"2026 admissions target is approximately 4,000. Allocation is tight relative to the pool of interested applicants.","last_reviewed":"2026-04-19"}],"metadata":{"editor_handle":"@ca-sme"},"source_url":null},{"schema_version":1,"pathway_id":"ca.express-entry.cec","display_name":"Express Entry — Canadian Experience Class","short_name":"CEC","country":"CA","category":"economic","outcome":{"outcome_type":"permanent-residence","duration_initial_months":null,"leads_to_pr":true,"years_to_citizenship":3},"summary":"The Canadian Experience Class is the Express Entry stream for foreign nationals who have already worked in Canada legally (post-graduates on PGWP, work-permit holders, IEC participants). It has no separate 67-point selection grid — eligibility is a short checklist, then ranking by CRS in the Express Entry pool.","status":"open","last_verified":"2026-04-19","effective_from":"2008-09-01","effective_to":null,"superseded_by":null,"sources":[{"title":"Canadian Experience Class — Canada.ca","url":"https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/immigrate-canada/express-entry/who-can-apply/canadian-experience-class.html","accessed":"2026-04-19","publisher":"IRCC","is_primary":true},{"title":"Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) — tool used by Immigration","url":"https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/immigrate-canada/express-entry/check-score/crs-criteria.html","accessed":"2026-04-19","publisher":"IRCC","is_primary":true}],"eligibility":{"all":[{"id":"experience.canadian-skilled-work","type":"number_min","field":"work.years_of_canadian_work","value":1,"explain":"At least 12 months of full-time (or equivalent part-time) skilled work experience in Canada, gained within the last 3 years."},{"id":"occupation.teer-0-1-2-3","type":"lookup_contains","field":"work.occupation_codes","lookup":"ca.noc-teer-0-1-2-3","explain":"Canadian work experience must be in NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3."},{"id":"language.clb7-or-clb5","type":"language_minimum","field":"language_tests","test":"ielts-general","overall":6,"subscores":{"listening":6,"reading":6,"writing":6,"speaking":6},"note":"CLB 7 for TEER 0 or 1 jobs; CLB 5 for TEER 2 or 3 jobs. Engine uses occupation-code lookup to pick the threshold. This rule encodes the higher bar (CLB 7); the engine loosens it for TEER 2/3 codes.","explain":"Language proof at the required CLB level (7 for TEER 0/1 jobs; 5 for TEER 2/3 jobs)."},{"id":"intent.outside-quebec","type":"boolean_false","field":"preferences.intent_to_live_quebec","severity":"advisory","explain":"Applicants must intend to live in a province or territory other than Quebec."},{"id":"work-authorised.not-self-employed","type":"boolean_false","field":"work.self_employed_in_canada","severity":"advisory","explain":"Self-employment and work during full-time study do not count towards CEC."}]},"scoring":{"scheme":"crs","max_score":1200,"pass_threshold":null,"combine":"additive","inherits_from":"ca.express-entry.fsw","notes":"Ranking is by the same Comprehensive Ranking System used for all EE streams. CEC-specific draws hit CRS 507–511 in Q1 2026 — significantly higher than historical norms. CEC scoring inherits the CRS grid documented in ca.express-entry.fsw via the engine's inherits_from mechanism, so any update to FSW's factor grid flows through automatically."},"costs":{"currency":"CAD","conversion":{"to":"ZAR","rate":13.43,"rate_date":"2026-04-19"},"items":[{"id":"principal-processing","label":"Principal applicant processing fee","amount":700,"effective_from":"2026-04-30"},{"id":"spouse-processing","label":"Spouse / common-law partner processing fee","amount":590,"effective_from":"2026-04-30"},{"id":"dependent-child","label":"Dependent child processing fee","amount":175,"effective_from":"2026-04-30","optional":true},{"id":"rprf","label":"Right of Permanent Residence Fee","amount":600},{"id":"biometrics-single","label":"Biometrics (single)","amount":85},{"id":"biometrics-family","label":"Biometrics (family)","amount":170,"alternative_to":"biometrics-single","optional":true}],"estimated_total_single":1385,"estimated_total_family_of_three":2860},"processing_time":{"p80_days":180,"range_days":[150,450],"last_updated":"2026-04-19","source_note":"IRCC service standard is 6 months (80%) after ITA. CEC backlog has grown by 20,000+ applications since February 2026, reaching ~54,600 pending cases — in practice this stream is running slower than service standard in 2026."},"dependency_paths":[{"id":"study-to-pgwp-to-cec","label":"Study permit → PGWP → CEC","sequence":["ca.study-permit","ca.pgwp","ca.express-entry.cec"],"note":"Most common Canadian Experience Class entry path — study, graduate, work on PGWP, accumulate 12+ months, apply via EE."}],"notes_for_south_africans":["CEC requires existing Canadian work experience; SA applicants arriving direct from SA with no Canadian history usually apply via FSW instead.","Study-to-PGWP-to-CEC remains the most viable indirect route for younger SA applicants.","PGWP was restricted in 2024 — college/non-degree fields now limited to agri, healthcare, STEM, trades, transport."],"flags":[{"code":"cec-backlog-growing-2026","severity":"warning","message":"CEC backlog grew by 20,000+ applications since February 2026 and sits around 54,600 pending cases. Real processing times are running beyond the 6-month service standard.","last_reviewed":"2026-04-19"},{"code":"cec-cutoff-high-q1-2026","severity":"info","message":"Q1 2026 CEC-specific draws closed at CRS 507–515 — unusually high versus historical norms. Applicants with CRS <500 should not rely on CEC-specific draws alone.","last_reviewed":"2026-04-19"}],"metadata":{"editor_handle":"@ca-sme","internal_notes":"Scoring factors are inherited from the CRS grid in ca.express-entry.fsw. When the shared scoring module is extracted, remove the placeholder factor here and have the engine resolve CRS from the shared module."},"source_url":null},{"schema_version":1,"pathway_id":"ca.express-entry.fsw","display_name":"Express Entry — Federal Skilled Worker Program","short_name":"FSW","country":"CA","category":"economic","outcome":{"outcome_type":"permanent-residence","duration_initial_months":null,"leads_to_pr":true,"years_to_citizenship":3},"summary":"The Federal Skilled Worker Program is Canada's main federal pathway for overseas skilled workers with no Canadian experience required. Candidates must pass a 67/100 selection grid and are then ranked in the Express Entry pool by the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). Invitations to Apply are issued per federal draw based on the ranking cut-off.","status":"open","last_verified":"2026-04-19","effective_from":"2015-01-01","effective_to":null,"superseded_by":null,"sources":[{"title":"Federal Skilled Worker Program — Canada.ca","url":"https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/immigrate-canada/express-entry/who-can-apply/federal-skilled-workers.html","accessed":"2026-04-19","publisher":"IRCC","is_primary":true},{"title":"Six selection factors — Federal Skilled Worker Program","url":"https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/immigrate-canada/express-entry/who-can-apply/federal-skilled-workers/six-selection-factors-federal-skilled-workers.html","accessed":"2026-04-19","publisher":"IRCC","is_primary":true},{"title":"Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) — tool used by Immigration","url":"https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/immigrate-canada/express-entry/check-score/crs-criteria.html","accessed":"2026-04-19","publisher":"IRCC","is_primary":true},{"title":"Express Entry rounds of invitations","url":"https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/immigrate-canada/express-entry/rounds-invitations.html","accessed":"2026-04-19","publisher":"IRCC","is_primary":true}],"eligibility":{"all":[{"id":"age.reasonable","type":"number_between","field":"personal.age","min":18,"max":64,"explain":"Between 18 and 64 at submission. CRS penalises age >45, but ineligibility starts outside this range."},{"id":"experience.skilled-work","type":"number_min","field":"work.years_of_skilled_work","value":1,"explain":"At least 12 months continuous full-time (or equivalent part-time) paid skilled work in a single NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 occupation within the last 10 years."},{"id":"occupation.on-teer-0-1-2-3","type":"lookup_contains","field":"work.occupation_codes","lookup":"ca.noc-teer-0-1-2-3","explain":"Occupation must map to a NOC code classified as TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3."},{"id":"language.clb7","type":"language_minimum","field":"language_tests","test":"ielts-general","overall":6,"subscores":{"listening":6,"reading":6,"writing":6,"speaking":6},"note":"Minimum CLB 7 in each of the four skills (or equivalent in French via TEF/TCF, or CELPIP).","explain":"Language proof at CLB 7 in all four skills (e.g. IELTS General 6.0 in each band)."},{"id":"education.secondary-minimum","type":"enum_in","field":"education.highest_level","values":["high-school","trade-cert","diploma","bachelor","honours","masters","phd"],"explain":"Canadian secondary-school equivalent or higher. Foreign credentials require an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) from a designated organisation."},{"id":"education.eca-required","type":"enum_in","field":"education.eca_status","values":["in-progress","completed","not-applicable"],"severity":"advisory","explain":"An ECA (e.g. WES, ICES, IQAS) is required for foreign credentials before submitting."},{"any":[{"id":"funds.meets-threshold","type":"number_min","field":"finances.savings_equivalent_cad","value":14690,"explain":"CAD $14,690 in settlement funds for a single applicant (2026 figure, indexed annually; more for family)."},{"id":"funds.exempt-job-offer","type":"boolean_true","field":"work.has_job_offer.CA","explain":"Settlement-funds requirement is waived for applicants with a valid Canadian job offer or existing authorisation to work in Canada."}]},{"id":"intent.outside-quebec","type":"boolean_false","field":"preferences.intent_to_live_quebec","severity":"advisory","explain":"Applicants must intend to live in a province or territory other than Quebec."}]},"scoring":{"scheme":"crs","max_score":1200,"pass_threshold":null,"combine":"additive","group_caps":{"transferability":100},"notes":"CRS is a ranking tool used in the Express Entry pool. There is no fixed pass mark; invitations to apply are issued per-draw based on the draw's cut-off. Q1 2026 CEC-specific draws sat at 507–515; French-language category draws at 379–419; Healthcare at 467; Physicians at 169 (record low); PNP-enhanced at 710–802 (includes +600 nomination). Skill-transferability is capped at 100 per IRCC rules — the engine enforces this via `group_caps.transferability`.","factors":[{"id":"core.age","group":"core","label":"Age (core / human-capital)","max_single":110,"max_with_spouse":100,"input":"personal.age","mapping":[{"match":{"min":20,"max":29},"points":{"single":110,"with_spouse":100}},{"match":{"equals":30},"points":{"single":105,"with_spouse":95}},{"match":{"equals":31},"points":{"single":99,"with_spouse":90}},{"match":{"equals":32},"points":{"single":94,"with_spouse":85}},{"match":{"equals":33},"points":{"single":88,"with_spouse":80}},{"match":{"equals":34},"points":{"single":83,"with_spouse":75}},{"match":{"equals":35},"points":{"single":77,"with_spouse":70}},{"match":{"equals":36},"points":{"single":72,"with_spouse":65}},{"match":{"equals":37},"points":{"single":66,"with_spouse":60}},{"match":{"equals":38},"points":{"single":61,"with_spouse":55}},{"match":{"equals":39},"points":{"single":55,"with_spouse":50}},{"match":{"equals":40},"points":{"single":50,"with_spouse":45}},{"match":{"equals":41},"points":{"single":39,"with_spouse":35}},{"match":{"equals":42},"points":{"single":28,"with_spouse":25}},{"match":{"equals":43},"points":{"single":17,"with_spouse":15}},{"match":{"equals":44},"points":{"single":6,"with_spouse":5}},{"match":{"min":45},"points":0},{"match":{"max":17},"points":0}]},{"id":"core.education","group":"core","label":"Level of education (core / human-capital)","max_single":150,"max_with_spouse":140,"input":"education.highest_level","mapping":[{"match":{"equals":"phd"},"points":{"single":150,"with_spouse":140}},{"match":{"equals":"masters"},"points":{"single":135,"with_spouse":126}},{"match":{"equals":"honours"},"points":{"single":128,"with_spouse":119}},{"match":{"equals":"bachelor"},"points":{"single":120,"with_spouse":112}},{"match":{"equals":"diploma"},"points":{"single":98,"with_spouse":91}},{"match":{"equals":"trade-cert"},"points":{"single":90,"with_spouse":84}},{"match":{"equals":"high-school"},"points":{"single":30,"with_spouse":28}},{"match":{"equals":"none"},"points":0}],"note":"Professional-degree values mapped to PhD; two-or-more-credentials combinations not modelled here — treat as edge case."},{"id":"core.language-first","group":"core","label":"Official languages — first (core / human-capital)","max_single":136,"max_with_spouse":128,"input":"language_tests","mapping":[{"match":{"min":8},"points":{"single":136,"with_spouse":128}},{"match":{"min":7.5,"max":7.5},"points":{"single":124,"with_spouse":116}},{"match":{"min":7,"max":7},"points":{"single":116,"with_spouse":108}},{"match":{"min":6.5,"max":6.5},"points":{"single":92,"with_spouse":84}},{"match":{"min":6,"max":6},"points":{"single":64,"with_spouse":60}},{"match":{"max":5.5},"points":0}],"note":"IELTS General proxy. Engine must use language-test conversion table to translate subscores to CLB, then map to points per skill; this is a simplified overall-score representation used for quick estimation."},{"id":"core.canadian-experience","group":"core","label":"Canadian work experience (core / human-capital)","max_single":80,"max_with_spouse":70,"input":"work.years_of_canadian_work","mapping":[{"match":{"equals":0},"points":0},{"match":{"equals":1},"points":{"single":40,"with_spouse":35}},{"match":{"equals":2},"points":{"single":53,"with_spouse":46}},{"match":{"equals":3},"points":{"single":64,"with_spouse":56}},{"match":{"equals":4},"points":{"single":72,"with_spouse":63}},{"match":{"min":5},"points":{"single":80,"with_spouse":70}}]},{"id":"spouse.education","group":"spouse","label":"Spouse education","max_single":0,"max_with_spouse":10,"input":"spouse.spouse_education","mapping":[{"match":{"equals":"phd"},"points":10},{"match":{"equals":"masters"},"points":10},{"match":{"equals":"honours"},"points":9},{"match":{"equals":"bachelor"},"points":8},{"match":{"equals":"diploma"},"points":6},{"match":{"equals":"trade-cert"},"points":5},{"match":{"equals":"high-school"},"points":2},{"match":{"equals":"none"},"points":0}],"note":"2026 proposed reform: IRCC has proposed removing the spousal grid entirely. Monitor for implementation."},{"id":"transferability.education-language","group":"transferability","label":"Education + first official language (CLB 9+)","max_single":50,"max_with_spouse":50,"inputs":["education.highest_level","language_tests"],"mapping":[{"match":{"education.highest_level":{"in":["masters","phd"]},"language_tests":{"min":7}},"points":50,"note":"Master's/PhD + CLB 9+ in all four abilities (IELTS 7.0+ each band)"},{"match":{"education.highest_level":{"in":["bachelor","honours","diploma","trade-cert"]},"language_tests":{"min":7}},"points":25,"note":"Post-secondary credential + CLB 9+"},{"match":{"education.highest_level":{"in":["masters","phd"]},"language_tests":{"min":6,"max":6.5}},"points":25,"note":"Master's/PhD + CLB 7-8"},{"match":{"education.highest_level":{"in":["bachelor","honours","diploma","trade-cert"]},"language_tests":{"min":6,"max":6.5}},"points":13,"note":"Post-secondary credential + CLB 7-8"}],"note":"Engine simplification: uses lowest IELTS subscore as the CLB proxy (most conservative). IRCC scores per ability so a 6.5 across all four bands clears CLB 7; 7.0 each clears CLB 9."},{"id":"transferability.foreign-work-language","group":"transferability","label":"Foreign work experience + first official language (CLB 9+)","max_single":50,"max_with_spouse":50,"inputs":["work.years_of_overseas_skilled_work","language_tests"],"mapping":[{"match":{"work.years_of_overseas_skilled_work":{"min":3},"language_tests":{"min":7}},"points":50,"note":"3+ years foreign skilled work + CLB 9+"},{"match":{"work.years_of_overseas_skilled_work":{"min":1,"max":2},"language_tests":{"min":7}},"points":25,"note":"1-2 years foreign skilled work + CLB 9+"},{"match":{"work.years_of_overseas_skilled_work":{"min":3},"language_tests":{"min":6,"max":6.5}},"points":25,"note":"3+ years foreign skilled work + CLB 7-8"},{"match":{"work.years_of_overseas_skilled_work":{"min":1,"max":2},"language_tests":{"min":6,"max":6.5}},"points":13,"note":"1-2 years foreign skilled work + CLB 7-8"}]},{"id":"transferability.foreign-work-canadian-work","group":"transferability","label":"Foreign work experience + Canadian work experience","max_single":50,"max_with_spouse":50,"inputs":["work.years_of_overseas_skilled_work","work.years_of_canadian_work"],"mapping":[{"match":{"work.years_of_overseas_skilled_work":{"min":3},"work.years_of_canadian_work":{"min":2}},"points":50,"note":"3+ years foreign + 2+ years Canadian"},{"match":{"work.years_of_overseas_skilled_work":{"min":1,"max":2},"work.years_of_canadian_work":{"min":2}},"points":25,"note":"1-2 years foreign + 2+ years Canadian"},{"match":{"work.years_of_overseas_skilled_work":{"min":3},"work.years_of_canadian_work":{"min":1,"max":1}},"points":25,"note":"3+ years foreign + 1 year Canadian"},{"match":{"work.years_of_overseas_skilled_work":{"min":1,"max":2},"work.years_of_canadian_work":{"min":1,"max":1}},"points":13,"note":"1-2 years foreign + 1 year Canadian"}]},{"id":"additional.pnp-nomination","group":"additional","label":"Provincial/territorial nomination","max_single":600,"max_with_spouse":600,"input":"work.has_pnp_nomination","mapping":[{"match":{"equals":true},"points":600},{"match":{"equals":false},"points":0}],"note":"Adding 600 CRS effectively guarantees an ITA."},{"id":"additional.arranged-employment","group":"additional","label":"Arranged employment (Canadian job offer)","max_single":200,"max_with_spouse":200,"input":"work.has_job_offer.CA","mapping":[{"match":{"equals":true},"points":50},{"match":{"equals":false},"points":0}],"note":"The arranged-employment CRS bonus was de-scoped after LMIA-fraud issues in 2024 and the 2025 anti-fraud reforms. Verify at application time; treat as zero in practice unless IRCC confirms otherwise. Senior-management TEER 0 Major Group 00 jobs could historically attract +200 instead of +50."},{"id":"additional.sibling-in-canada","group":"additional","label":"Sibling in Canada (PR or citizen, age 18+)","max_single":15,"max_with_spouse":15,"input":"personal.has_sibling_in_canada","mapping":[{"match":{"equals":true},"points":15},{"match":{"equals":false},"points":0}],"note":"+15 CRS for a full/half/step sibling who is a Canadian PR or citizen, age 18+, living in Canada. Common-law and adopted siblings count."},{"id":"additional.french-clb7-plus","group":"additional","label":"French CLB 7+ (TEF Canada / TCF Canada)","max_single":50,"max_with_spouse":50,"input":"language.french_clb7_plus","mapping":[{"match":{"equals":true},"points":50},{"match":{"equals":false},"points":0}],"note":"+50 CRS for French CLB 7 or higher in all four abilities (regardless of English level). Strong CRS lever for SA applicants willing to invest in French. Replaces the pre-2023 +25/+50 split."},{"id":"additional.canadian-education","group":"additional","label":"Canadian post-secondary education","max_single":30,"max_with_spouse":30,"input":"education.studied_in_canada","mapping":[{"match":{"equals":"long"},"points":30},{"match":{"equals":"short"},"points":15},{"match":{"equals":"none"},"points":0}],"note":"+15 for a 1-2 year credential at a Canadian post-secondary institution; +30 for a 3+ year credential or graduate-level."}]},"costs":{"currency":"CAD","conversion":{"to":"ZAR","rate":13.43,"rate_date":"2026-04-19"},"items":[{"id":"principal-processing","label":"Principal applicant processing fee","amount":700,"effective_from":"2026-04-30","note":"Increased from CAD $605 on 30 April 2026."},{"id":"spouse-processing","label":"Spouse / common-law partner processing fee","amount":590,"effective_from":"2026-04-30"},{"id":"dependent-child","label":"Dependent child processing fee","amount":175,"effective_from":"2026-04-30","optional":true},{"id":"rprf","label":"Right of Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF)","amount":600},{"id":"biometrics-single","label":"Biometrics (single)","amount":85},{"id":"biometrics-family","label":"Biometrics (family, 2+ persons)","amount":170,"alternative_to":"biometrics-single","optional":true},{"id":"eca-external","label":"Educational Credential Assessment (WES/ICES/IQAS)","amount":275,"optional":true,"note":"External fee; ~CAD $230–$320 depending on body."}],"estimated_total_single":1385,"estimated_total_family_of_three":2860,"note":"Excludes IELTS (~ZAR 4,550 / CAD 330), SA police clearance, and medical exam. Estimated totals assume single biometrics for individuals and family biometrics for families of three."},"processing_time":{"p80_days":180,"range_days":[120,540],"last_updated":"2026-04-19","source_note":"IRCC service standard is 6 months (80%) after Invitation to Apply. FSW processing has reportedly sped up in 2026 while CEC has slowed."},"dependency_paths":[{"id":"fsw-direct","label":"Direct PR via FSW","sequence":["ca.express-entry.fsw"],"note":"Standalone Express Entry stream; no prior Canadian work required."},{"id":"pnp-boost-fsw","label":"FSW + PNP nomination (+600 CRS)","sequence":["ca.pnp.base","ca.express-entry.fsw"],"note":"A PNP enhanced-stream nomination adds 600 CRS and effectively guarantees an ITA."}],"notes_for_south_africans":["SA Honours degrees evaluate well in the ECA (WES) process and typically map to the two-or-more-credentials band in CRS.","IELTS General (not Academic) is the correct test for FSW.","SA English-medium education is generally accepted without translation for the ECA.","South Africans typically cannot claim \"first official language French\" without deliberate investment; English tests are the realistic path."],"flags":[{"code":"crs-reform-spousal-grid","severity":"warning","message":"IRCC has proposed removing the CRS spousal grid because it has, counter-intuitively, lowered many couple applicants' scores. Watch for implementation in 2026.","last_reviewed":"2026-04-19"},{"code":"arranged-employment-bonus-overhauled","severity":"warning","message":"The +50 / +200 arranged-employment CRS bonus is effectively de-scoped pending anti-fraud reforms. Treat as zero when estimating unless IRCC confirms otherwise.","last_reviewed":"2026-04-19"},{"code":"smaller-draws-higher-cutoffs","severity":"info","message":"IRCC has shifted to smaller, more frequent category-based draws in 2026 (down from ~8,000 ITAs/draw to ~2,000 by mid-April 2026), concentrating competition among higher scorers.","last_reviewed":"2026-04-19"}],"metadata":{"editor_handle":"@ca-sme","internal_notes":"CRS mapping here is simplified for the estimator. The full grid with per-skill language points and skill-transferability combinations should be externalised into data/countries/CA/scoring/crs.yaml once the engine's scoring module is implemented."},"source_url":null},{"schema_version":1,"pathway_id":"ca.pnp.base","display_name":"Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) — generic","short_name":"PNP","country":"CA","category":"economic","outcome":{"outcome_type":"permanent-residence","duration_initial_months":null,"leads_to_pr":true,"years_to_citizenship":3},"summary":"The Provincial Nominee Program is the umbrella under which each of Canada's provinces and territories (except Quebec and Nunavut) runs its own streams targeting local labour needs. Each PNP has at least one \"enhanced\" stream aligned with Express Entry that adds +600 CRS on nomination, and usually a \"base\" stream outside Express Entry. This file models the generic framework; per-province streams are separate pathways that reference this one.","status":"open","last_verified":"2026-04-19","effective_from":"1998-01-01","effective_to":null,"superseded_by":null,"sources":[{"title":"Provincial Nominee Program — Canada.ca","url":"https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/immigrate-canada/provincial-nominees.html","accessed":"2026-04-19","publisher":"IRCC","is_primary":true},{"title":"Immigration Levels Plan 2026–2028 — PNP allocation","url":"https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/news/notices/supplementary-immigration-levels-2026-2028.html","accessed":"2026-04-19","publisher":"IRCC","is_primary":true}],"eligibility":{"all":[{"id":"intent.province","type":"boolean_true","field":"work.intent_to_live_in_nominating_province","explain":"Applicant must intend to live and work in the nominating province or territory."},{"id":"nomination.held","type":"boolean_true","field":"work.has_pnp_nomination","explain":"Applicant must hold a valid nomination from a participating province or territory."},{"any":[{"id":"nomination.enhanced-stream-ee-eligible","type":"boolean_true","field":"work.pnp_enhanced_stream","explain":"Enhanced (Express-Entry-aligned) streams require the applicant to meet a federal EE programme (FSW, CEC, or FST)."},{"id":"nomination.base-stream","type":"boolean_false","field":"work.pnp_enhanced_stream","explain":"Base streams are outside Express Entry and apply directly through IRCC with the province's support."}]},{"id":"language.clb4-minimum","type":"language_minimum","field":"language_tests","test":"ielts-general","overall":4,"note":"Minimum language thresholds vary by province and stream; CLB 4 is a conservative floor.","explain":"Language proof per provincial stream requirements. Most streams require CLB 4–7 depending on occupation."}]},"costs":{"currency":"CAD","conversion":{"to":"ZAR","rate":13.43,"rate_date":"2026-04-19"},"items":[{"id":"federal-processing","label":"Federal processing fee (principal)","amount":1205,"effective_from":"2026-04-30","note":"Federal fee on top of provincial fees."},{"id":"rprf","label":"Right of Permanent Residence Fee","amount":600},{"id":"biometrics-single","label":"Biometrics (single)","amount":85},{"id":"biometrics-family","label":"Biometrics (family)","amount":170,"alternative_to":"biometrics-single","optional":true},{"id":"provincial-fee-range","label":"Provincial application fee (varies)","amount":500,"optional":true,"note":"Provincial fees range from CAD $0 (some MPNP streams) to CAD $1,500 (OINP, BCPNP). Treat the indicative figure as a placeholder."}],"estimated_total_single":2390,"note":"Costs exclude IELTS, ECA, medical, and police clearances. Provincial fees vary widely; the indicative placeholder should be overridden per province in province-specific pathway files when those are added."},"processing_time":{"median_days":210,"range_days":[150,420],"last_updated":"2026-04-19","source_note":"Base PNP processing: ~13 months. Enhanced PNP (Express-Entry-linked): ~7 months. Figures are IRCC-side only; provincial nomination itself takes an additional 2–6 months depending on province and stream."},"dependency_paths":[{"id":"pnp-to-ee","label":"PNP enhanced nomination → Express Entry with +600 CRS","sequence":["ca.pnp.base","ca.express-entry.fsw"],"note":"Enhanced nomination adds 600 CRS to the federal pool score, effectively guaranteeing an ITA."}],"notes_for_south_africans":["NB, NS, NL, and SK have grown fast in 2026 — worth monitoring their sector-specific streams (healthcare, construction, trades).","Ontario (OINP) has the largest 2026 allocation at 14,119 nominations, redesigned in Spring 2026.","Quebec does not participate in PNP — use the Quebec PSTQ pathway (not in v1 seed data) instead."],"flags":[{"code":"pnp-allocation-increase-2026","severity":"info","message":"PNP allocation rose 66% to 91,500 nominations for 2026 after a deep 2025 cut. Provincial caps and stream redesigns are in flux. Check each province's own intake schedule before applying.","last_reviewed":"2026-04-19"},{"code":"ontario-oinp-redesign-spring-2026","severity":"warning","message":"Ontario OINP stream redesign is launching in Spring 2026. Existing stream names may shift; verify OINP's own publication before preparing an application.","last_reviewed":"2026-04-19"},{"code":"nova-scotia-consolidation","severity":"info","message":"Nova Scotia consolidated its Entrepreneur and International Graduate Entrepreneur streams in 2026. See NSNP directly for current stream definitions.","last_reviewed":"2026-04-19"}],"metadata":{"editor_handle":"@ca-sme","internal_notes":"This is the generic PNP pathway. Per-province streams (Alberta AAIP Opportunity, Ontario OINP Employer Job Offer, BCPNP Skilled Worker, etc.) should each become their own pathway file under data/countries/CA/pathways/ and reference this one via a dependency path or superseded_by chain where appropriate.","known_province_allocations_2026":{"ontario":14119,"alberta":6403,"british_columbia":5254,"manitoba":6239,"new_brunswick":4573,"newfoundland_labrador":3050,"northwest_territories":197,"nova_scotia":5236,"pei":1704,"saskatchewan":6033,"yukon":282}},"source_url":null},{"schema_version":1,"pathway_id":"nz.active-investor-plus","display_name":"Active Investor Plus Visa","short_name":"AIP","country":"NZ","category":"investor","outcome":{"outcome_type":"permanent-residence","duration_initial_months":null,"leads_to_pr":true,"years_to_citizenship":5},"summary":"The Active Investor Plus visa is New Zealand's premier investor residence pathway, redesigned on 1 April 2025. Applicants choose between a Growth Category (NZD $5m into higher-risk investments over 3 years) and a Balanced Category (NZD $10m into a mix over 5 years). In its first year the refreshed scheme attracted NZD $3.39 billion. The English-language requirement was removed in the 1 April 2025 refresh.","status":"open","last_verified":"2026-04-19","effective_from":"2025-04-01","effective_to":null,"superseded_by":null,"sources":[{"title":"Active Investor Plus Visa","url":"https://www.immigration.govt.nz/new-zealand-visas/apply-for-a-visa/about-visa/active-investor-plus-visa","accessed":"2026-04-19","publisher":"Immigration New Zealand","is_primary":true}],"eligibility":{"any":[{"id":"growth-category","all":[{"id":"growth.investment","type":"number_min","field":"finances.nzd_investment_capital","value":5000000,"explain":"Growth Category requires a minimum NZD $5 million investment over 3 years."},{"id":"growth.investment-type","type":"enum_in","field":"finances.aip_investment_type","values":["managed-funds","direct-nz-business","philanthropy"],"explain":"Growth Category funds must be deployed into higher-risk investments (managed funds, direct NZ businesses, philanthropy)."},{"id":"growth.period","type":"number_min","field":"finances.aip_investment_period_years","value":3,"explain":"Investment must be held for at least 3 years."}]},{"id":"balanced-category","all":[{"id":"balanced.investment","type":"number_min","field":"finances.nzd_investment_capital","value":10000000,"explain":"Balanced Category requires a minimum NZD $10 million investment over 5 years."},{"id":"balanced.investment-type","type":"enum_in","field":"finances.aip_investment_type","values":["bonds","property-new-residential","property-commercial","managed-funds"],"explain":"Balanced Category funds may be deployed into bonds, new residential or commercial property, or managed funds."},{"id":"balanced.period","type":"number_min","field":"finances.aip_investment_period_years","value":5,"explain":"Investment must be held for at least 5 years."},{"id":"balanced.presence","type":"number_min","field":"finances.days_present_in_nz","value":105,"explain":"Balanced Category requires a minimum 105 days physical presence in NZ over the 60-month investment period."}]}]},"costs":{"currency":"NZD","conversion":{"to":"ZAR","rate":11.07,"rate_date":"2026-04-19"},"items":[{"id":"visa-application","label":"AIP visa application","amount":12000,"note":"Approximate — confirm current fee with INZ at application time; fee excludes the investment itself."}],"estimated_total_single":12000,"note":"The quoted fee excludes the investment capital (NZD $5m or $10m), professional legal/accounting costs to structure the investment (typically NZD $50,000–$250,000+), and any applicable due-diligence charges."},"processing_time":{"median_days":240,"range_days":[180,365],"last_updated":"2026-04-19","source_note":"6–12 months. Growth Category applications dominate: 545 received versus 114 Balanced as of 17 April 2026."},"dependency_paths":[{"id":"aip-direct","label":"Direct residence via AIP","sequence":["nz.active-investor-plus"],"note":"Single-step pathway from qualifying investment to residence."}],"notes_for_south_africans":["Relevant only for SA applicants with NZD $5m+ liquid capital (approx ZAR 55m+ at April 2026 rates). Most SA high-net-worth applicants will find the Growth Category more aligned with existing private-equity exposure.","English language requirement was REMOVED in the 1 April 2025 refresh — a meaningful change for older applicants.","NZ Reserve Bank and SARS forex rules mean moving NZD $5m+ out of SA requires careful tax/exchange-control structuring; use a Johannesburg-based tax attorney plus an NZ adviser."],"flags":[{"code":"heavy-growth-category-demand","severity":"info","message":"Growth Category dominates applications 5:1 over Balanced. Demand has pushed total inflows to NZD $3.39 billion in year one.","last_reviewed":"2026-04-19"},{"code":"english-removed-2025-04","severity":"info","message":"English-language requirement was removed in the 1 April 2025 refresh of the Active Investor Plus visa.","last_reviewed":"2026-04-19"}],"metadata":{"editor_handle":"@nz-sme"},"source_url":null},{"schema_version":1,"pathway_id":"nz.aewv","display_name":"Accredited Employer Work Visa","short_name":"AEWV","country":"NZ","category":"work-permit","outcome":{"outcome_type":"temporary-work","duration_initial_months":60,"renewable":true,"leads_to_pr":true,"years_to_citizenship":null},"summary":"The Accredited Employer Work Visa is New Zealand's primary work visa. It is a three-stage system: employer accreditation, role-specific Job Check, and the worker's visa application. The AEWV is the main entry point for South Africans into NZ skilled work and is the feeder for all major residence pathways.","status":"open","last_verified":"2026-04-19","effective_from":"2022-07-04","effective_to":null,"superseded_by":null,"sources":[{"title":"Accredited Employer Work Visa","url":"https://www.immigration.govt.nz/new-zealand-visas/apply-for-a-visa/about-visa/accredited-employer-work-visa","accessed":"2026-04-19","publisher":"Immigration New Zealand","is_primary":true},{"title":"INZ — Immigration median wage (effective dates)","url":"https://www.immigration.govt.nz/employ-migrants/median-wage","accessed":"2026-04-19","publisher":"Immigration New Zealand","is_primary":true}],"eligibility":{"all":[{"id":"employer.accredited","type":"boolean_true","field":"work.employer_accredited_nz","explain":"Employer must hold valid INZ accreditation (Standard, High-Volume, or Triangular)."},{"id":"job-check.approved","type":"boolean_true","field":"work.aewv_job_check_approved","explain":"The specific role must have passed the Job Check (labour market test or exemption) before the worker applies."},{"id":"job-offer.present","type":"boolean_true","field":"work.has_job_offer.NZ","explain":"A written job offer from the accredited employer for the approved role is required."},{"id":"minimum-wage.nz-floor","type":"number_min","field":"work.hourly_rate_nzd","value":23.5,"explain":"NZ minimum wage floor NZD $23.50/hr (from 1 April 2025). General median-wage requirement for AEWV was removed 10 March 2025, but market rate still applies."},{"id":"experience.skill-4-5","type":"number_min","field":"work.years_of_skilled_work","value":2,"severity":"advisory","explain":"For NOL/ANZSCO Skill 4/5 roles, a minimum of 2 years relevant experience is required (reduced from 3 years in 2026)."}]},"costs":{"currency":"NZD","conversion":{"to":"ZAR","rate":11.07,"rate_date":"2026-04-19"},"items":[{"id":"employer-accreditation-standard","label":"Employer Accreditation — Standard","amount":775,"note":"Employer cost; ~12–24 months validity; ~10 business days processing."},{"id":"employer-accreditation-high-volume","label":"Employer Accreditation — High-Volume","amount":1280,"optional":true,"alternative_to":"employer-accreditation-standard"},{"id":"employer-accreditation-triangular","label":"Employer Accreditation — Triangular","amount":4060,"optional":true,"alternative_to":"employer-accreditation-standard"},{"id":"job-check","label":"Job Check (per role)","amount":735,"note":"Employer cost; 14-day Seek/Trade Me advertising for NOL, 21-day for ANZSCO Skill 4/5; exemptions for 2× median or Green List."},{"id":"aewv-work-visa","label":"AEWV work visa","amount":1540,"note":"Applicant cost."}],"estimated_total_single":1540,"note":"Employer accreditation and Job Check fees are borne by the employer. The applicant pays only the AEWV visa fee (NZD $1,540). Processing service standard: 80% within 7 weeks."},"processing_time":{"p80_days":49,"range_days":[14,84],"last_updated":"2026-04-19","source_note":"INZ published service standard: 80% within 7 weeks. Employer Accreditation ~10 business days; Job Check 2–21 business days depending on occupation and advertising obligations."},"dependency_paths":[{"id":"aewv-to-wtr-to-pr","label":"AEWV → Work to Residence Tier 2 → PR","sequence":["nz.aewv","nz.green-list.tier2"],"note":"24 months of qualifying AEWV work in a Tier 2 Green List occupation enables residence."},{"id":"aewv-to-smc","label":"AEWV → SMC residence","sequence":["nz.aewv","nz.smc.main"],"note":"AEWV work accumulates NZ skilled work experience points for SMC."}],"notes_for_south_africans":["Primary entry point for SA workers. No bilateral Working Holiday pathway exists — SA applicants enter via employer sponsorship on the AEWV.","Partner support thresholds (from 9 March 2026): Skill 1–3 role wage ≥$28/hr unlocks Partner of a Worker Work Visa; below that, partner gets only a Visitor Visa. Green List roles have a $35/hr partner threshold.","5-year maximum AEWV duration requires the role to pay ≥1.5× median ($52.50/hr). Otherwise typical 3-year visa applies."],"flags":[{"code":"median-wage-2026-03","severity":"info","message":"Key AEWV thresholds from 9 March 2026: partner support (Skill 1–3) $28/hr; partner support (Skill 4–5) $52.50/hr; Green List partner support $35/hr; LMT exemption 2× median $70/hr; 5-year visa floor 1.5× median $52.50/hr.","last_reviewed":"2026-04-19"},{"code":"nol-replaces-anzsco","severity":"warning","message":"AEWV uses NOL (National Occupation List) as the official classification from 3 November 2025. ANZSCO references are being retired.","last_reviewed":"2026-04-19"},{"code":"migrant-exploitation-penalty-rise","severity":"info","message":"Proposed increase in migrant-exploitation prison sentence from 7 to 10 years — signals tighter employer compliance. Expect more audit activity.","last_reviewed":"2026-04-19"}],"metadata":{"editor_handle":"@nz-sme"},"source_url":null},{"schema_version":1,"pathway_id":"nz.smc.main","display_name":"Skilled Migrant Category — 6-Point System","short_name":"SMC","country":"NZ","category":"economic","outcome":{"outcome_type":"permanent-residence","duration_initial_months":null,"leads_to_pr":true,"years_to_citizenship":5},"summary":"The Skilled Migrant Category is New Zealand's primary points-based residence pathway for skilled workers. It requires a job or offer from an NZ Accredited Employer and uses a 6-point grid: 3–6 points from ONE skill category (occupational registration, qualification, or income) plus up to 3 points from NZ skilled work experience. A major August 2026 redesign adds two new sub-pathways.","status":"open","last_verified":"2026-04-19","effective_from":"2023-10-01","effective_to":null,"superseded_by":null,"sources":[{"title":"Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa","url":"https://www.immigration.govt.nz/new-zealand-visas/apply-for-a-visa/about-visa/skilled-migrant-category-resident-visa","accessed":"2026-04-19","publisher":"Immigration New Zealand","is_primary":true},{"title":"INZ — Immigration median wage (effective dates)","url":"https://www.immigration.govt.nz/employ-migrants/median-wage","accessed":"2026-04-19","publisher":"Immigration New Zealand","is_primary":true}],"eligibility":{"all":[{"id":"age.max","type":"max_age","field":"personal.age","value":55,"explain":"Applicants must be 55 or younger at submission."},{"id":"employer.accredited","type":"boolean_true","field":"work.employer_accredited_nz","explain":"The NZ employer offering the skilled job must be an Accredited Employer."},{"id":"job-offer.present","type":"boolean_true","field":"work.has_job_offer.NZ","explain":"A skilled job or offer of employment from the Accredited Employer is required. SMC is not pure self-nomination."},{"id":"language.ielts-6-5","type":"language_minimum","field":"language_tests","test":"ielts-general","overall":6.5,"subscores":{"listening":6.5,"reading":6.5,"writing":6.5,"speaking":6.5},"note":"IELTS 6.5 overall and 6.5 in each band, or PTE/TOEFL/OET equivalent. UK/US/CA/AU/IE passport holders exempt — SA NOT exempt.","explain":"English at IELTS 6.5 overall and 6.5 in each band (or equivalent)."},{"id":"scoring.pass-mark","type":"number_min","field":"scoring.nz_smc_points","value":6,"explain":"Pass mark is 6 points total from the 6-point grid (one skill category plus NZ skilled work experience)."}]},"scoring":{"scheme":"nz-6-point","max_score":9,"pass_threshold":6,"combine":"highest-of-then-add","notes":"Applicants pick the highest of three skill categories (Occupational Registration, Qualification, or Income) and then add up to 3 points for NZ skilled work experience. The August 2026 redesign caps NZ work-experience points at 2 and introduces two new sub-pathways (Trades and Technician; Skilled Work Experience). Values below reflect the current (pre-August 2026) grid.","factors":[{"id":"registration","group":"skill","label":"Occupational registration (training required)","max_single":6,"input":"work.occupational_registration_years","mapping":[{"match":{"min":6},"points":6},{"match":{"min":5,"max":6,"max_exclusive":true},"points":5},{"match":{"min":4,"max":5,"max_exclusive":true},"points":4},{"match":{"min":2,"max":4,"max_exclusive":true},"points":3},{"match":{"max":2,"max_exclusive":true},"points":0}],"note":"6+ yrs training (medical specialist) = 6; 5 yrs (GP, dentist) = 5; 4 yrs (engineer, nurse) = 4; 2-3 yrs = 3; under 2 yrs = 0. Encoded as continuous min/max ranges so a 3-year (or fractional) value scores correctly — see code review 2026-05-31."},{"id":"qualification","group":"skill","label":"Qualification","max_single":6,"input":"education.highest_level","mapping":[{"match":{"equals":"phd"},"points":6},{"match":{"equals":"masters"},"points":5},{"match":{"equals":"honours"},"points":4},{"match":{"equals":"bachelor"},"points":3},{"match":{"equals":"diploma"},"points":0},{"match":{"equals":"trade-cert"},"points":0},{"match":{"equals":"high-school"},"points":0}],"note":"Overseas Master's = 5; Overseas Honours/PGDip = 4; Overseas Bachelor = 3. NZ Master's = 6, NZ Honours/PGDip = 5, NZ Bachelor = 4 (increments apply from August 2026). Engine should pick the correct band from education.country_of_study."},{"id":"income","group":"skill","label":"Income (multiples of median wage)","max_single":6,"input":"work.hourly_rate_nzd","mapping":[{"match":{"min":105},"points":6},{"match":{"min":70,"max":105,"max_exclusive":true},"points":4},{"match":{"min":52.5,"max":70,"max_exclusive":true},"points":3},{"match":{"max":52.5,"max_exclusive":true},"points":0}],"note":"Based on immigration median wage NZD $35.00/hr from 9 March 2026. 3× = $105/hr = 6 points; 2× = $70/hr = 4 points; 1.5× = $52.50/hr = 3 points."},{"id":"nz-work-experience","group":"experience","label":"NZ skilled work experience","max_single":3,"input":"work.years_of_nz_work","mapping":[{"match":{"equals":0},"points":0},{"match":{"equals":1},"points":1},{"match":{"equals":2},"points":2},{"match":{"min":3},"points":3}],"note":"From August 2026 this caps at 2 points."}]},"costs":{"currency":"NZD","conversion":{"to":"ZAR","rate":11.07,"rate_date":"2026-04-19"},"items":[{"id":"residence-application","label":"SMC Resident Visa application (includes immigration levy)","amount":6450},{"id":"eoi","label":"Expression of Interest submission","amount":0,"optional":true,"note":"EOI is free; fee applies at application stage after Invitation to Apply."}],"estimated_total_single":6450,"note":"Excludes IELTS (~ZAR 5,500–5,700), SAPS police clearance (ZAR 150–300 DIY or 1,500–3,500 expedited), medical + chest X-ray (ZAR 3,500–6,000), and optional Licensed Immigration Adviser fees (NZD 3,000–15,000+)."},"processing_time":{"median_days":210,"range_days":[180,365],"last_updated":"2026-04-19","source_note":"~6–9 months after Invitation to Apply. EOI selection window varies by demand."},"dependency_paths":[{"id":"aewv-to-smc","label":"AEWV work in NZ → SMC residence","sequence":["nz.aewv","nz.smc.main"],"note":"Most SA applicants arrive on AEWV, accumulate NZ skilled work experience points, then apply for SMC residence."},{"id":"green-list-tier2-to-smc","label":"Work to Residence Tier 2 → SMC","sequence":["nz.green-list.tier2","nz.smc.main"],"note":"24 months of Tier 2 work enables direct residence via WTR; some applicants route through SMC as an alternative with different scoring advantages."}],"notes_for_south_africans":["SMC is not pure self-nomination like Canada's Express Entry. SA applicants must secure AEWV-eligible work FIRST; typically 12–24 months of NZ work precede the SMC application.","English exemptions do not apply to SA passport holders — full IELTS/PTE/TOEFL/OET required.","A well-paid senior SA role mapped at 3× median wage ($105/hr ≈ NZD $218,400/yr) hits 6 points on income alone.","The August 2026 redesign adds a Trades and Technician Pathway for NZQF Level 4+ tradespeople — worth watching for SA applicants in construction and automotive trades."],"flags":[{"code":"smc-redesign-august-2026","severity":"warning","message":"August 2026 redesign: Trades and Technician Pathway (Level 4+ qualification + 4 yrs post-qual experience with 18 months in NZ at SMC median wage); Skilled Work Experience Pathway (5 yrs relevant experience, ≥2 in NZ, pay at 1.1× median). NZ work experience points cap at 2 from August 2026.","last_reviewed":"2026-04-19"},{"code":"median-wage-2026-03","severity":"info","message":"Median wage rose to NZD $35.00/hr on 9 March 2026. Income bands at 1.5×/2×/3× became $52.50/$70.00/$105.00 respectively.","last_reviewed":"2026-04-19"},{"code":"red-amber-list-incoming","severity":"warning","message":"A Red/Amber List for SMC is being introduced from August 2026 to manage risk in certain occupations. Full lists are pending.","last_reviewed":"2026-04-19"}],"metadata":{"editor_handle":"@nz-sme","internal_notes":"The \"highest-of-then-add\" combine semantics are implemented in the engine's scoring module for scheme: nz-6-point. The factor with the highest points from registration/qualification/income is picked and summed with nz-work-experience."},"source_url":null},{"schema_version":1,"pathway_id":"nz.green-list.tier1","display_name":"Straight to Residence — Green List Tier 1","short_name":"Green List T1","country":"NZ","category":"economic","outcome":{"outcome_type":"permanent-residence","duration_initial_months":null,"leads_to_pr":true,"years_to_citizenship":5},"summary":"The Straight to Residence visa is New Zealand's fastest path to residence for workers in Tier 1 Green List occupations (mostly healthcare, engineering and ICT). With a qualifying job offer from an Accredited Employer, applicants can apply for residence directly — no work-to- residence bridge required.","status":"open","last_verified":"2026-04-19","effective_from":"2022-09-05","effective_to":null,"superseded_by":null,"sources":[{"title":"Straight to Residence visa overview","url":"https://www.immigration.govt.nz/new-zealand-visas/apply-for-a-visa/about-visa/straight-to-residence-visa","accessed":"2026-04-19","publisher":"Immigration New Zealand","is_primary":true},{"title":"INZ — Green List occupations","url":"https://www.immigration.govt.nz/new-zealand-visas/preparing-a-visa-application/working-in-nz/the-green-list","accessed":"2026-04-19","publisher":"Immigration New Zealand","is_primary":true}],"eligibility":{"all":[{"id":"age.max","type":"max_age","field":"personal.age","value":55,"explain":"Applicants must be 55 or younger at submission."},{"id":"occupation.tier1","type":"lookup_contains","field":"work.occupation_codes","lookup":"nz.green-list.tier1","explain":"Occupation must appear on the Green List Tier 1."},{"id":"employer.accredited","type":"boolean_true","field":"work.employer_accredited_nz","explain":"Employer must be accredited by Immigration New Zealand."},{"id":"job-offer.present","type":"boolean_true","field":"work.has_job_offer.NZ","explain":"Must hold a qualifying job offer (or currently be working) in a Tier 1 role."},{"id":"job.pay-threshold","type":"boolean_true","field":"work.meets_role_pay_rate","explain":"Pay must meet the role's specified rate (or current median wage if no specific rate is prescribed)."},{"id":"job.term","type":"enum_in","field":"work.job_term_type","values":["permanent","fixed-term-12m-plus","contract-continuous-6m-plus"],"explain":"Job must be permanent, fixed-term 12+ months, or contract/continuous 6+ months."},{"id":"language.ielts-6-5","type":"language_minimum","field":"language_tests","test":"ielts-general","overall":6.5,"subscores":{"listening":6.5,"reading":6.5,"writing":6.5,"speaking":6.5},"note":"SA NOT in the English-exemption list.","explain":"IELTS 6.5 overall and 6.5 in each band (or equivalent)."},{"id":"registration.occupational","type":"boolean_true","field":"work.occupational_registration_completed","severity":"advisory","explain":"Occupational registration with the relevant NZ body is required where applicable (e.g. Medical Council, Nursing Council, Engineering New Zealand)."}]},"costs":{"currency":"NZD","conversion":{"to":"ZAR","rate":11.07,"rate_date":"2026-04-19"},"items":[{"id":"residence-application","label":"Straight to Residence application (includes immigration levy)","amount":6450}],"estimated_total_single":6450,"note":"Excludes IELTS, SAPS, medical, translation, and optional Licensed Immigration Adviser fees."},"processing_time":{"median_days":90,"range_days":[60,180],"last_updated":"2026-04-19","source_note":"INZ published range 2–6 months; fastest NZ residence pathway."},"dependency_paths":[{"id":"tier1-direct","label":"Direct residence via Green List Tier 1","sequence":["nz.green-list.tier1"],"note":"Single-step pathway from Tier 1 job offer to PR."}],"notes_for_south_africans":["Strongest pathway for SA healthcare professionals, engineers and senior software engineers. Tier 1 includes most registered medical specialists, nurses, midwives, and all registered engineering disciplines.","Employer accreditation is the employer's responsibility — but confirm accreditation status on the INZ public register before accepting an offer.","Occupational registration for SA-trained nurses and doctors can take 6–12 months and is a common bottleneck; start early."],"flags":[{"code":"green-list-placement-shifts","severity":"warning","message":"Green List occupation placements between Tier 1 and Tier 2 shift periodically. Always cross-check the INZ Green List search tool at the time of application.","last_reviewed":"2026-04-19"}],"metadata":{"editor_handle":"@nz-sme"},"source_url":null},{"schema_version":1,"pathway_id":"nz.green-list.tier2","display_name":"Work to Residence — Green List Tier 2 (24-month WTR)","short_name":"Green List T2","country":"NZ","category":"work-permit","outcome":{"outcome_type":"work-to-residence","duration_initial_months":60,"leads_to_pr":true,"years_to_citizenship":7},"summary":"Green List Tier 2 occupations (teachers, plumbers, electricians, mechanics, some ICT roles) are not eligible for straight-to-residence. Instead, a worker accumulates 24 months of NZ work in a Tier 2 role and then applies for residence. Entry is via the AEWV; residence is the final step of the sequence.","status":"open","last_verified":"2026-04-19","effective_from":"2022-09-05","effective_to":null,"superseded_by":null,"sources":[{"title":"Work to Residence visa — Green List Tier 2","url":"https://www.immigration.govt.nz/new-zealand-visas/apply-for-a-visa/about-visa/work-to-residence-green-list-occupations","accessed":"2026-04-19","publisher":"Immigration New Zealand","is_primary":true},{"title":"INZ — Green List occupations","url":"https://www.immigration.govt.nz/new-zealand-visas/preparing-a-visa-application/working-in-nz/the-green-list","accessed":"2026-04-19","publisher":"Immigration New Zealand","is_primary":true}],"eligibility":{"all":[{"id":"age.max","type":"max_age","field":"personal.age","value":55,"explain":"Applicants must be 55 or younger at submission."},{"id":"occupation.tier2","type":"lookup_contains","field":"work.occupation_codes","lookup":"nz.green-list.tier2","explain":"Occupation must appear on the Green List Tier 2."},{"id":"experience.24-months-nz","type":"number_min","field":"work.months_in_tier2_role","value":24,"explain":"Minimum 24 months of NZ work in the Tier 2 role with the qualifying pay rate before a residence application is allowed."},{"id":"employer.accredited","type":"boolean_true","field":"work.employer_accredited_nz","explain":"Employer must be accredited by Immigration New Zealand."},{"id":"language.ielts-6-5","type":"language_minimum","field":"language_tests","test":"ielts-general","overall":6.5,"subscores":{"listening":6.5,"reading":6.5,"writing":6.5,"speaking":6.5},"note":"SA NOT in the English-exemption list.","explain":"IELTS 6.5 overall and 6.5 in each band (or equivalent)."},{"id":"job.pay-threshold","type":"boolean_true","field":"work.meets_role_pay_rate","explain":"Pay must meet the role's specified rate (or current median wage if no specific rate is prescribed)."},{"id":"registration.occupational","type":"boolean_true","field":"work.occupational_registration_completed","severity":"advisory","explain":"Occupational registration with the relevant NZ body is required where applicable."}]},"costs":{"currency":"NZD","conversion":{"to":"ZAR","rate":11.07,"rate_date":"2026-04-19"},"items":[{"id":"aewv-work-visa","label":"AEWV work visa (entry step)","amount":1540,"note":"Required to enter the 24-month qualifying work period."},{"id":"residence-application","label":"Work to Residence application (includes immigration levy)","amount":6450}],"estimated_total_single":7990,"note":"Total is the sum of the AEWV entry visa and the final residence application. Employer Accreditation and Job Check costs are borne by the employer, not the applicant."},"processing_time":{"median_days":120,"range_days":[60,210],"last_updated":"2026-04-19","source_note":"Work visa 2–3 months; residence 3–6 months after the 24-month qualifying period. Total duration from application to PR typically 28–30 months including the qualifying work period."},"dependency_paths":[{"id":"aewv-to-wtr-tier2","label":"AEWV → Work to Residence Tier 2","sequence":["nz.aewv","nz.green-list.tier2"],"note":"Canonical chain: enter on AEWV in a Tier 2 role, work 24 months, apply for residence."}],"notes_for_south_africans":["Good pathway for SA tradespeople — electricians, plumbers, gasfitters, drainlayers, motor mechanics, panel beaters.","Also covers SA primary-school teachers and some secondary non-STEM teachers.","The 24-month clock only counts qualifying employment with an Accredited Employer at the required pay rate. Job changes must preserve this.","Budget for SAPS police clearance validity — the clearance is valid for 6 months only, so time the renewal carefully close to the residence application date."],"flags":[{"code":"green-list-placement-shifts","severity":"warning","message":"Green List occupation placements between Tier 1 and Tier 2 shift periodically. An occupation moving from Tier 2 to Tier 1 can shorten the path to residence.","last_reviewed":"2026-04-19"}],"metadata":{"editor_handle":"@nz-sme"},"source_url":null}]}