How do I get my qualifications assessed?

Qualifications, such as degrees and certifications, are ranked to help determine eligibility under Immigration New Zealand’s Skilled Migrant Category. If your qualification is not on the List of Recognised Qualifications, you will need to have it assessed by NZQA.

Getting your qualifications recognised is an important part of the moving process. Start the process as soon as possible to make it easier when you are offered a job.

Levels of qualification are ranked from one to 10, with 10 representing the highest level of qualification. Levels depend on the complexity of one’s education, rather than simply the time spent learning. Check your qualification ranking on the New Zealand Register of Quality Assured Qualifications to find out how many points your qualification is worth. 

Occupational registration bodies

For many occupations, such as those in the medical, education and architectural fields, you will be required to register with a New Zealand occupational registration body in order to legally undertake employment. Immigration New Zealand has a complete list of New Zealand occupational registration bodies.

TeachNZ, for example, provides an online guide that details the specific procedure necessary to validate your teaching qualifications in New Zealand.

Some other occupation industries requiring registration:

Further qualifications, such as those for accountants, can be assessed by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA).

Not all qualifications are required to be assessed. Immigration New Zealand keeps an up-to-date list of international qualifications exempt from assessment on its website.

If you inform NZQA that you are seeking professional registration, you will be given the contact details of the relevant New Zealand professional body when NZQA issues your assessment report.

What if my qualification was obtained in New Zealand?

If Immigration New Zealand has requested that you have the level of your New Zealand qualification confirmed by NZQA, you can apply in writing to: The Register Advisor, Tertiary Education Group, NZQA, PO Box 160, Wellington, 6140, New Zealand. Ensure that you include the name of the qualification you need to have assessed, the year the qualification was awarded, and your full return postal address.

What if my qualifications are not comparable?

You may still be able to apply for a job, but perhaps at a lower level of skill.

Alternatively, you could consider:

  • Taking a less specialised position
  • Taking a course to reach the standard requested
  • A career change
  • Starting your own business

Get help with your New Zealand visa.