Skilled migrant category resident visa holders are an important part of the New Zealand labour market. They often have high levels of skills and experience that set them apart from other workers and can make a valuable contribution to businesses and economies across New Zealand. New Zealand established its skilled migrant category in 2008 so that people with in-demand skills wouldn't have to uproot their families to come work and live in the country. Applicants for a skilled migrant visa must either have completed an approved qualification or have at least one year of professional experience that is acceptable by New Zealand standards. New Zealand employers can sponsor foreign workers under the skilled migrant category.