New Zealand Grants Direct Visa to Indian Graduates

In a landmark decision aimed at streamlining immigration processes, New Zealand has announced that Indian degree holders will now be eligible for direct visa access without the need for a prior qualification assessment. The move comes as India is officially added to New Zealand’s List of Qualifications Exempt from Assessment (LQEA), significantly easing the path for skilled workers and students.

Previously, Indian applicants were required to obtain an International Qualification Assessment (IQA) from the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) to validate their academic degrees. This process was often time-consuming and expensive, leading to delays in visa processing. The new policy, effective from June 23, 2025, removes that hurdle for applicants holding recognized bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Indian institutions.

The change is expected to benefit thousands of Indian professionals and students applying under key visa categories such as the Skilled Migrant Category, Accredited Employer Work Visa, and student visas. It also aligns with New Zealand's broader strategy to attract global talent and strengthen bilateral ties with India.

Immigration experts and education consultants have welcomed the move, calling it a timely and practical step that reduces red tape and enhances New Zealand’s appeal as a destination for higher education and employment.

The decision follows recent efforts by the New Zealand government to deepen engagement with India, including the announcement of new scholarships and trade partnerships. India remains one of New Zealand’s top sources of international students, with over 22,000 Indians currently enrolled in various institutions across the country.

This reform is expected to accelerate visa approvals, improve enrollment timelines for students, and support economic and cultural ties between the two nations.