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In a landmark move aimed at strengthening educational and professional ties with India, New Zealand has officially removed the International Qualification Assessment (IQA) requirement for most Indian degrees, effective June 23, 2025. This development makes it faster, cheaper, and simpler for Indians to study, work, or migrate to New Zealand, especially through the Student Visa, Skilled Migrant Category, and Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV).

India has now been added to New Zealand’s List of Qualifications Exempt from Assessment (LQEA), confirming the country’s academic credentials and streamlining the visa process for thousands of Indian applicants. This change also complements the growing usage of the NZETA visa for short-term travel, encouraging easier entry into New Zealand for Indian nationals, whether visiting, studying, or beginning their work journey.

What This Means for Indian Applicants

The removal of the IQA requirement eliminates a major hurdle that previously delayed and complicated visa applications. Earlier, Indian students and professionals were required to submit their qualifications for IQA through NZQA—a process that could take up to 12 weeks and cost NZD 445 to NZD 746. Now, for many degrees from recognized Indian institutions, this step is no longer necessary.

This streamlined process applies across various visa categories, including:

1. Student Visas
2. Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) Resident Visa
3. Green List Occupation Pathways
4. Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)
5. Short-term visits via NZETA Visa

Indian citizens planning short-term visits (for study tours, professional meetings, or tourism) can also take advantage of the NZETA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority), a quick-entry visa waiver available for eligible travelers.

Boost for Indian Students Studying in New Zealand

With the IQA requirement waived for most Indian degrees, New Zealand becomes an even more attractive destination for higher education. This reform helps students:

• Speed up visa approvals
• Save significantly on visa-related expenses
• Avoid unnecessary administrative delays

Secure admission faster for upcoming intakes

For Indian nationals arriving via the NZETA visa, this also means faster clearance for short academic programs, pre-admission campus visits, and post-admission travel arrangements. Paired with scholarships like the New Zealand Excellence Awards 2025, which offer up to NZD 20,000 per student, this makes study in New Zealand a compelling, cost-effective option.

Increased Opportunities for Indian Professionals

Indian professionals aiming to work in New Zealand through the AEWV or Skilled Migrant Category now enjoy a much simpler process. Their qualifications—bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degrees—will be accepted without requiring the lengthy IQA documentation, provided the issuing institution is listed by NZQA.

For skilled Indian workers in fields like engineering, information technology, medicine, construction, and teaching, this means:

• Faster job processing
• Fewer hurdles in employer sponsorship
• Enhanced eligibility for permanent residence
• Easier qualification recognition in Green List roles
• Short-term business visitors can also benefit from the NZETA visa, which is ideal for professionals traveling for interviews, conferences, or contract negotiations.

Important Steps for Indian Applicants

To take full advantage of this policy change, follow these key steps:

• Verify your degree – Ensure your qualification and university are on the NZQA’s recognized list.

• Choose the right visa – Depending on your goal, apply for a Student Visa, AEWV, SMC, or NZETA visa for short-term visits.

• Gather required documents – Include your digital transcript, English test scores (IELTS/PTE), financial proof, and health insurance.

• Submit your application early – Even with faster processing, early submission improves your chances of meeting intake or job deadlines.

Final Thoughts

This visa reform is a bold, welcoming step that opens the gates wider for Indian students and professionals. By removing the IQA requirement and simplifying eligibility for key visa categories—including the increasingly popular NZETA visa for short-term stays—New Zealand is positioning itself as one of the most accessible and opportunity-rich destinations for Indian talent.

Whether you’re planning to study, build a career, or explore short-term professional opportunities, 2025 is the ideal time to act. With fewer barriers, faster processing, and more scholarships, the New Zealand dream is now closer than ever.