New Zealand just made it easier for Indians to get a PR — but only if you have these jobs

Wellington/New Delhi: New Zealand has formally recognised select Indian qualifications, scrapping the need for the International Qualifications Assessment (IQA) process for eligible applicants from June 23, 2025. The move streamlines the path for Indian graduates aiming to work or settle in New Zealand--provided their qualifications and professions meet the country’s specific demands, according to Times of India.

The change, however, is far from a blanket endorsement. The exemption applies only to those whose qualifications are already recognised under the List of Qualifications Exempt from Assessment (LQEA) and who work in professions listed on New Zealand’s Green List — a priority list of occupations where the country faces critical skill shortages.

No more IQA—but not for everyone

Until now, Indian applicants were required to pay significant fees and endure lengthy processing times for the IQA, a prerequisite for work or residence visa applications. That hurdle has now been removed — but only for those in high-demand sectors such as engineering, healthcare, and construction. Those outside the list will still face the traditional immigration scrutiny.

The Green list: Who gets fast-tracked

New Zealand’s Green List is essentially a priority occupations list, divided into two tiers:

Tier 1 – Straight to Residence: Professionals in this category can apply for residency as soon as they have a job offer. This includes software engineers, civil and mechanical engineers, general practitioners, registered nurses, and midwives.

Tier 2 – Work to Residence: Occupations such as welders, metal fabricators, and painters fall under this category. Applicants must work in New Zealand for two years before they become eligible for permanent residency.

Key sectors in demand

1. Engineering and ICT

Roles such as software developers, civil engineers, and electrical engineers are among the most in-demand. Those falling under Tier 1 are eligible for immediate residency pathways.

2. Healthcare Professionals

New Zealand continues to grapple with shortages in the health sector. Doctors, registered nurses, midwives, and several allied health professionals are on Tier 1, enabling quicker visa processing and PR eligibility.

3. Construction and Skilled Trades

Project managers, surveyors, and quantity surveyors are part of Tier 1. Skilled tradespeople -- such as machinists and welders -- were added to Tier 2 of the Green List in August 2025.

Not just any degree will do

While New Zealand now recognises several Indian degrees -- particularly those from reputed institutions -- applicants must ensure that their qualification is listed under the LQEA. Importantly, a relevant job offer from an accredited employer remains non-negotiable for visa consideration.

Officials have cautioned applicants not to assume that generalist degrees (such as MBAs without clear job pathways) or non-technical backgrounds will be enough to qualify.

A calculated move

At a time when many countries are tightening immigration controls, New Zealand’s decision is a pragmatic signal to skilled migrants: “We trust your education, but we need your skills.” It also underscores a broader shift towards skills-based migration, where tangible expertise -- rather than just a degree -- opens the door.

What you should do

• Confirm your degree is LQEA-exempt
• Check if your profession is listed on the Green List
• Secure a job offer from an accredited New Zealand employer
• Ensure all documentation is accurate and complete

This policy shift marks a rare vote of confidence in the Indian education system from a major OECD country.