New Zealand Relaxes Visa Rules for Degree Holders from India and Eight Other Nations
2 Min Read
In a significant boost to international mobility, New Zealand has updated its List of Qualifications Exempt from Assessment (LQEA), easing immigration for degree holders from nine countries, including India.
The new exemption, announced by Immigration New Zealand (INZ), will allow applicants from India, Sri Lanka, Singapore, South Korea, France, Germany, Italy, Sweden, and Switzerland to bypass the lengthy and costly qualification assessment process under pathways such as the Skilled Migrant Category, Green List, or Accredited Employer Work Visa.
The move is expected to simplify and fast-track visa applications for eligible candidates, particularly in key markets like India, which has witnessed a surge in student visa approvals and growing educational ties with New Zealand.
“This is a welcome step for Indian degree holders and prospective students,” said Kajal Bhimani, Country Manager, India, Look Education New Zealand. “It reduces delays that previously led many students to miss their preferred intake.”
Immigration experts note that the International Qualification Assessment (IQA) process, which can take months and cost hundreds of dollars, often deter qualified applicants. “It’s not just about paperwork, it’s about keeping momentum and morale intact,” said Arunima Dhingra, CEO of Auckland-based Aims Global Immigration.
The changes come as part of a broader strategy to revive international enrolments in New Zealand, which are up 24% year-on-year. The update also aligns with New Zealand’s diplomatic push to strengthen its educational and trade relations with India, further evidenced by Prime Minister Christopher Luxon’s visit to the country earlier this year.
While the exemption streamlines processes for skilled and qualified migrants, the government continues to monitor immigration volumes. Requirements for low-skilled applicants have been tightened, with English-language criteria and reduced stay durations introduced.
Nonetheless, the new exemption list reflects a more welcoming approach for high-skilled migrants and international students, especially from India reinforcing NewZealand’s status as a desirable global education and work destination.
Source: THE PIE NEWS
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