Updated NZ Qualification Exemption List (IQA) – June 2025
From 23 June 2025, important changes will be introduced to the List of Qualifications Exempt from Assessment (LQEA). These aim to provide international candidates a more efficient, transparent, and streamlined pathway toward living and working in New Zealand.
This is for skilled professionals applying for a Resident Visa under the SMC (Skilled Migrant Category).
These changes are part of a broader strategy to align New Zealand’s skilled migration system with global educational standards, making it easier for professionals to transition into New Zealand’s workforce.
Which Countries Are Affected by the June 2025 Updates?
Several new countries have been added to the List of Qualifications Exempt from Assessment, meaning applicants holding eligible qualifications from these countries will no longer be required to undergo an International Qualification Assessment (IQA). These newly included countries are:
- France
- Germany
- India
- Italy
- Singapore
- South Korea
- Sri Lanka
- Sweden
- Switzerland
Additionally, changes will be made to qualifications from the following countries to enhance consistency:
- Australia
- Japan
- Malaysia
- South Africa
- United Kingdom
- United States of America
These changes reduce the workload for candidates and immigration authorities, improving overall processing efficiency.
What Is the International Qualification Assessment (IQA)?
The International Qualification Assessment is a formal evaluation provided by the NZQA (New Zealand Qualifications Authority). It determines how your overseas qualification compares to New Zealand Qualifications and Credentials Framework qualifications.
This process is critical when applying for visas that require your qualifications to be considered equivalent or comparable to New Zealand standards, such as the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa.
The IQA outlines the qualification level, structure, and learning outcomes, clarifying whether an applicant meets the academic criteria for a New Zealand visa or occupational registration.
Do You Need an IQA?
While many international qualifications require assessment, there are exemptions, especially for those:
- Applying under the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa, where their qualification is pre-approved
- Holding an engineering degree accredited by the Washington Accord
- Holding an engineering technology degree accredited by the Sydney Accord
Note: Even if your qualification is listed on the exemption list, Immigration New Zealand may still request an International Qualification Assessment depending on the specific requirements of your visa, especially when credit value or subject content is relevant.
What Is the Washington Accord?
The Washington Accord is an international agreement recognizing the substantial equivalency of engineering degree programs. If you hold an engineering degree accredited by the Washington Accord, you are not required to complete an IQA for most New Zealand visa applications.
The same applies to qualifications under the Sydney Accord, which covers engineering technology degrees. These accords help maintain consistency and uphold professional engineering standards across signatory countries.
How to Apply for an International Qualification Assessment (IQA)
You must apply for an International Qualification Assessment via the New Zealand Qualifications Authority if your qualification is not exempt. Here’s how to begin:
-
Determine the Type of IQA You Need
-
- Standard IQA – for comparing qualifications or general visa purposes
- Skill Shortage List IQA – for jobs on the Green List
- Teaching IQA – for those seeking teacher registration
-
Prepare and Upload Documents
Collect academic transcripts, degree certificates, and identity documents. These must meet NZQA’s formatting and language standards.
-
Review the Terms and Pay the Fee
Understand the processing time, refund policy, and payment requirements.
-
Submit the Application Online
Apply through NZQA’s official online system and track your real-time progress.
How Long Does an IQA Take?
The standard processing time for a complete IQA is 30 working days, not including weekends and public holidays. However, NZQA prioritizes well-documented applications.
Once all required information is submitted and verified, 90% of IQAs are completed within 15 business days.
You will receive an Electronic Recognition Statement (eRS) at the end of the process. This document is essential for your Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa application or occupational registration in New Zealand.
What Happens After You Apply?
Check the status of your application through the NZQA portal. The status will move through stages such as:
- Pre-evaluation
- Waiting for information
- Evaluation
- Peer Review / Quality Assurance
- Publish / Complete
If your application is not complete or you are missing documents, processing may be delayed.
Appealing the Outcome
If you believe your IQA result is incorrect, you may appeal within 3 months of receiving your outcome. The appeal fee is $765; only one appeal is permitted per assessment.
Making Supporting or Follow-up Applications
If you plan to have additional qualifications assessed after your initial IQA, you can request an add-on evaluation within 12 months of the original assessment. You can also contact NZQA’s Qualifications Recognition Services team for assistance in choosing the right type of IQA for your case.
The 2025 update to the List of Qualifications Exempt from Assessment is a welcome change for skilled migrants. With additional countries now included, many applicants will no longer need to go through the International Qualification Assessment, reducing the paperwork and wait times.
Still unsure if you need an IQA or if your qualification is exempt? The expert team at Oracle Immigration Consultants can help you determine your eligibility, guide you through the NZQA application, and ensure your visa journey is smooth and stress-free.
Book an appointment with us now and take the first step toward your New Zealand migration goals!
