A quick announcement hot off the press from Immigration New Zealand (INZ).
Currently, in order to apply for some visa types, certain qualifications gained outside of New Zealand need to be evaluated and compared to New Zealand qualifications. This is done via an International Qualifications Assessment (IQA).
An IQA compares overseas qualifications to:
- a level of the New Zealand Qualifications Framework (NZQF), and
- a New Zealand qualification type, if a direct comparison exists.
Yesterday, INZ announced that there will be an update to the List of Qualifications Exempt from Assessment (LQEA) with the first change coming into effect on the 29 September 2023. The list will detail which qualifications are exempt from needing an IQA.
The List of Qualifications Exempt from Assessment will apply to the following visas:
- the Green List (including STR)
- Sector Work to Residence
- Accredited Employer Work Visa
- Skilled Migrant Category
The first phase will include qualifications from the following countries:
- United Kingdom
- South Africa
- United States of America
- Hong Kong
- Ireland
- Malaysia
- Philippines
The LQEA update will come into effect for when the Green List and Sector Work To Residence categories open on the 29 September 2023 and when the SMC Points category opens on the 09 October 2023.
If you have a qualification from one of the above countries, we will be able to advise closer to 29 September 2023 whether or not you need to apply for an International Qualification Assessment (IQA) for your visa application.
The next phase will include further countries.
We will update you once we have further information.
Our team of Licensed Immigration Advisers has a combined experience of more than 120 years! We can assist with any immigration matter, and provide options for your pathway to New Zealand.
