Many of our clients need to have their overseas qualification(s) assessed by the New Zealand Qualification Authority. This government body has recently changed their processes.
Why do I need an IQA?
You may need an IQA in order to be deemed qualified for a role, on the basis of which you want to seek a work visa. You may also need to claim points for your overseas qualification under the Skilled Migrant residence category.
How does this work?
Unless your overseas qualification is automatically recognised in New Zealand immigration policy, or gets recognised via occupational registration in New Zealand (electricians, nurses, etc.), it is likely that you will require an 'IQA' (International Qualification Assessment) by the New Zealand Qualifications authority. They will analyse your certificate(s) and transcripts and tell you what level on the NZ qualification framework your overseas qualification sits.
The processing time is 25 working days and each qualification costs NZD $445 to assess. There is a surcharge for qualifications obtained prior to 1998, and add-ons to teaching qualifications or a Skills Shortage assessment.
Are there exemptions?
Yes, there is a list of overseas qualifications that have been pre-assessed by Immigration New Zealand and do not require an IQA. Some teaching qualifications from Australia, Ireland, England / Scotland / Wales, Canada, South Africa, or Fiji may also be pre-approved by the NZ Qualification Authority. Last but not least, certain registration bodies in New Zealand may be better suited to assess certain types of qualifications (plumbers, electricians, nurses, engineers, etc.).
