An IQA check is how you find out if your qualifications will be recognised in New Zealand
Check if your qualifications are recognised
This page is designed to help you understand the process involved in checking whether your overseas qualifications are recognised in the same way in the New Zealand job market.
We have compiled an easy to understand guide for you, so you can be sure you have everything you need to apply for an International Qualifications Assessment (IQA).
An IQA costs $445 per assessment so it pays to know in advance if you need one (and why) - so you don't waste your time and money.
Your qualifications and the Green List Visa
The NZ government is providing a priority pathway to residency for people who can fill these positions - this is called the Green List Visa. If you work in one of the Green List occupations listed here, meet the eligibility criteria - and have a job offer from an accredited employer - you can come to New Zealand on a work visa and apply for residence from 5 September 2022. You can see more on the INZ website.
How do you get a job offer from an accredited employer?
You're right where you need to be. We help you get the offer.
We can assess your qualifications, check that you do meet the criteria, then match you with an accredited employer looking to find candidates to fill these in demand roles.
Who is exempt?
There are some exemptions to the assessment requirements for overseas qualifications. Exemptions apply when the country, university (or technical institute) and the course has been already assessed and considered a match for the NZ qualifications framework.
There is a list specific to each country that you can check to see if your qualification is acceptable and does not require verification.
There are also possible exemptions from an IQA check that depend on the pay rate you are promised by an accredited employer - this is set at double the median wage. This does not apply across all industries - so it’s always better to register with NZJS in order to be clear about what is required in your case.
Check the Immigration New Zealand exemption list.
Our immigration partner can help you
We're here to help smooth the way, and provide you with accurate information
Immigration information
If you want to find a job In New Zealand the first step is to find out if you are eligible to move here. Immigration New Zealand is a great resource to help you with this. Immigration New Zealand provides information on:
- Visa applications
- Skill eligibility and criteria
- New Zealand employment law and work rights
Our partner migration experts, New Zealand Immigration Law, can also help.
- As immigration lawyers NZIL’s services include:
- An assessment of your eligibility for migration
- Help with your visa application for work or residence
- Advice as to how your family might apply or also be eligible for a visa
Some of the ways our immigration law partner NZIL can assist you through this process are:
- Directing you to the correct place to secure your IQA and ensuring you have all the documents required for a successful application.
- Helping you understand whether you should apply for a Green List Visa or another type of Visa.
- Assisting you with understanding all the requirements and information you will need for a successful Visa application.
- Helping you with a partner or family visa
Get started with NZ jobs search and register your interest now
