Immigration New Zealand (INZ) has announced a major update to its List of Qualifications Exempt from Assessment (LQEA)—a move designed to simplify the visa process for skilled migrants and international workers.
Effective 23 June 2025, applicants with recognized qualifications from nine new countries will benefit from streamlined processing, without needing an International Qualification Assessment (IQA).
This update is part of INZ’s broader strategy to ease migration pathways under the Skilled Migrant Category, Green List roles, and the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV).
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What Is the LQEA?
The List of Qualifications Exempt from Assessment (LQEA) identifies foreign qualifications that are pre-approved by INZ to meet New Zealand’s standards.
If your qualification appears on the LQEA, you are not required to complete an IQA through the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA). This saves time, money, and effort during the application process.
The LQEA applies across various visa types, including:
- Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa
- Green List Occupations
- Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)
- Other residence and temporary visas that require formal qualifications
9 New Countries Added to the LQEA
Starting 23 June 2025, INZ will include qualifications from the following additional countries:
- France
- Switzerland
- Germany
- Sweden
- India
- Sri Lanka
- Italy
- South Korea
- Singapore
This update benefits skilled professionals across sectors such as healthcare, engineering, IT, and education, especially those transitioning from student to work visas.
Updates to Existing Entries
In addition to adding new countries, INZ is also updating existing LQEA entries to improve consistency and clarity. Revisions affect qualifications from:
- United States
- Australia
- United Kingdom
- Japan
- South Africa
- Malaysia
The revised listings aim to clarify qualification titles, standardize levels, and ensure fair and transparent assessments across all applications.
Why This Matters for Visa Applicants
If your qualification is listed on the LQEA:
- You are exempt from IQA/NZQA assessments
- You benefit from faster visa processing
- You face lower documentation and cost requirements
This is especially valuable for applicants applying under Green List roles or in high-demand occupations, where verified qualifications are essential.
How to Check if Your Qualification Is on the LQEA
To check the latest list, visit the Immigration New Zealand website and:
- Select your country of qualification
- Enter the name of your qualification and awarding institution
- Confirm whether it appears in the approved list
If your qualification is listed, you do not need an IQA. If not, you may still be eligible—but you will likely need to apply for a formal International Qualification Assessment.
What If Your Qualification Isn’t on the LQEA?
If your qualification is not listed, you will typically need to complete an IQA through NZQA.
In rare cases, INZ may still request an IQA even if your qualification appears on the list—especially when additional evidence is required to verify credits, content, or level of study.
Who Should Pay Attention to This Update?
- Skilled Migrant Category Applicants: Those seeking permanent residency through employment
- Green List Occupation Holders: High-demand professionals needing fast-tracked approvals
- Employers and Immigration Advisors: Reduced paperwork, easier onboarding of skilled foreign workers
A Smoother Path for Global Talent
New Zealand’s expansion of the LQEA reflects its ongoing commitment to welcoming international talent. By recognizing more foreign qualifications, the country is removing barriers and accelerating pathways for skilled migration.
If you’re planning to move to New Zealand for work or permanent residence, now is the ideal time to verify your credentials and prepare your application ahead of the June 2025 changes.
