Claiming Points for Recognised Qualifications

The popular Skilled Migrant Category visa pathway is based on a point system.

If you wish to claim points for your qualification in your Expression of Interest, you need to prove that your qualification is comparable to a recognised New Zealand Qualification and that suits the required standard. 

When a qualification is recognised:

  • It is on the List of Qualifications Exempt from Assessment; or
  • It has been assessed by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA); or
  • It has been assessed by a New Zealand registration authority at the same level as a qualification on the List of Qualifications Exempt from Assessment as part of an application for New Zealand occupational registration; or
  • It is a Washington Accord or Sydney Accord accredited undergraduate degree.

Principal applicants under the Skilled Migrant Category must submit their qualifications and provide evidence that the qualifications are on a sufficient level on the New Zealand Qualifications Framework.

How many points can you claim for your qualification?

NOTE: Points for recognised qualifications are not cumulative. You can claim points for one qualification only.  

Claim bonus points for your qualifications:

In addition to the points above, you might be able to claim bonus points in your Expression of Interest.

Does my qualification need to be assessed by the NZQA? 

Our Licensed Immigration Advisers will assess your qualification documents and let you know whether your qualifications need to be externally assessed by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority.

Only if this is necessary, we will prepare and lodge an application for an assessment of your qualification with NZQA.

Do I have to apply for professional registration?

In New Zealand, professional registration is required by law to undertake employment in certain professions.

This will also affect the number of points you will be able to claim for your Expression of Interest. In order for a qualification to qualify for points on the bases of full or provisional registration, sufficient evidence must be provided.

Get in contact with us for a Free Assessment of your migration options by our Licensed Immigration Advisers, or continue your Self-Assessment with our Quick Self-CheckGuide.

Read more about character:

Read more Visa FAQ's:

Which Visa is Right for You?

Read more about the Points System:

Read more about health:

Read more about Critical Workers:

The Skill Shortage Lists

Do you want to migrate to New Zealand?

Base your move on solid grounds: Ask us for a Free Assessment first!