Big News! New Zealand Adds India & 8 Nations to IQA Exempt List – Effective June 23, 2025

Highlights: New Zealand Adds India to Fast-Track Qualification List — Major Relief for Skilled Visa Applicants

• Immigration New Zealand has announced that the revised List of Qualifications Exempt from Assessment (LQEA) will come into effect from June 23, 2025.
• Under the update, qualifications from India and eight other countries, including France, Germany, and Singapore will be added to the LQEA.
• Updates will also be made to qualifications from Australia, Japan, South Africa, the UK, and the USA to improve clarity and consistency.
• With these changes, eligible applicants will no longer be required to undergo the International Qualification Assessment (IQA).
• The exemption applies to major visa categories such as the Skilled Migrant Category, Accredited Employer Work Visa, and Green List pathways.
   

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New Zealand Simplifies Skill-Based Migration with Updated Qualification List

With the upcoming revision to New Zealand’s List of Qualifications Exempt from Assessment (LQEA), the country is broadening its recognition of overseas qualifications to reduce processing barriers and attract skilled talent more efficiently. This change eliminates the need for an International Qualification Assessment (IQA) for eligible applicants from a growing list of countries, making key visa pathways like the Skilled Migrant Category and Green List roles more accessible. The updated list will take effect from June 23, 2025, and reflects New Zealand’s intent to align with trusted international education systems.
 

The list of countries that are newly added to the LQEA are as follows:
 

• India
• France
• Germany
• Italy
• Singapore
• South Korea
• Sri Lanka
• Sweden
• Switzerland

The list of countries with updated qualification recognition are as follows:

• Australia
• Japan
• Malaysia
• South Africa
• United Kingdom
• United States of America
   

Also, read…

New Zealand eases visa rules allowing to work remotely
 

What Indian Applicants Should Do Next to Make the Most of This Opportunity

With India now added to New Zealand’s updated qualification list, Indian professionals have a smoother path ahead—but preparation is still key.
 

Here’s how you can make the most of this change:
 

• Check if your qualification is covered: Not all degrees may be included, review the updated LQEA list carefully once published.
• Plan your visa route early: Whether it’s the Skilled Migrant Category, Green List roles, or the Accredited Employer Work Visa, identify which pathway best suits your profile.
• Save time and money: If your qualification is exempt from IQA, you will avoid delays and assessment costs.
• Get your documents in order: Prepare transcripts, degree certificates, and work experience letters ahead of time for a faster application.
• Seek expert help: Connect with Y-Axis advisors to get a clear understanding of your eligibility, documentation, and visa strategy.
   

Note: This change takes effect from June 23, 2025, so early preparation can put you ahead in the queue.
 

*Are you looking for step-by-step assistance with overseas immigration? Contact Y-Axis, the world’s No. 1 overseas immigration consultancy!
 

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