Published on: July 2025
New Zealand eases PR pathways for Indian students. Fast-track visas, no IQA, 25-hour work rule & PGDip+Masters combo now active.
From June 2025 onward, several new immigration benefits have come into effect—especially for Indian students graduating from top institutions. These include faster processing, PR-friendly degree recognitions, new post-study combinations, and relaxed investment rules for wealthy migrants.This guide breaks down all major policy changes and how Indian applicants can take advantage.
Education Recognition: India Added to NZQA’s Exempt List
India has been officially added to New Zealand’s List of Qualifications Exempt from Assessment (LQEA) as of June 23, 2025.
This applies to:
- Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD degrees
- From accredited Indian institutions like IITs, IIMs, IISERs, Central Universities
Key Impact:
No need to submit your degree for an International Qualification Assessment (IQA), saving:
- 8–12 weeks of processing time
- Around NZD 746 in fees
This streamlines visa processing and directly benefits PR-linked visa categories, such as:
- Skilled Migrant Category
- Green List roles
- Accredited Employer Work Visa
- Sector Agreement pathways
Postgraduate Dip + Master’s Combo Now Accepted
A new post-study academic route allows students to combine:
- Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip)
- Followed by a Master’s degree
This combo is now recognised for eligibility in post-study work and residency pathways.
It allows more flexible course planning, reduces academic pressure, and helps students gain both credentials within 2–3 years.
12-Month Extended Application Window
International graduates now have a 12-month window after graduation to:
- Apply for a post-study work visa
- Transition into residency
- Search for qualifying employment (with fewer restrictions)
This offers students time to settle emotionally, relocate strategically, and apply confidently.
Work Rights Expanded: 25 Hours/Week for Students
Effective November 2025, international students can now work up to:
- 25 hours per week during study terms (up from 20 hours)
This helps students earn more, offset tuition costs, and gain relevant work experience even before graduation.
Residency-Focused Investor Visa Options
New Zealand’s investor visa system has been completely restructured into 2 simplified categories under the Active Investor Plus (AIP) program:
Growth Category
- NZ$5 million over 3 years
- Only 21 days physical presence in NZ required
Balanced Category
- NZ$10 million over 5 years
- Only 105 days in NZ across the full term
No English test or upper age limit required.
Applicants can now invest in:
- Managed funds
- Direct businesses
- Residential or commercial real estate
- Government bonds
Application interest has doubled in 2025 alone.
Removal of IQA = Faster PR for Graduates
Previously, graduates needed to wait up to 3 months for IQA just to begin their residency pathway. Now, with India on the exempt list, eligible Indian degree holders can directly:
- Apply under the Skilled Migrant Category
- Fast-track their EOI (Expression of Interest)
- Convert student visas to work + PR status within months
This makes New Zealand one of the most PR-friendly countries for Indian graduates in 2025.
How Velynt Global Can Help
Whether you’re planning to study, invest, or work in New Zealand, we provide full support:
- University & course selection
- Student visa documentation
- Post-study work strategy
- Skilled Migrant Category assistance
- Investor visa consultation
Contact our team today for a step-by-step checklist based on your goals.
📧 [email protected]
📞 +91 90748 07602
🌐 www.velyntglobal.com
FAQs
Q1: Do I still need IELTS for NZ study visas?
Yes, unless exempted by the institution or program. PR and investor routes may not require IELTS now.
Q2: Can I switch from student to PR without an employer?
Yes, if your course and qualification match the Green List or Skilled Migrant Category.
Q3: Can I apply from India under the investor route?
Yes, and you don’t need to move to New Zealand full-time. Physical stay requirements are minimal.
Q4: What if my Indian university is not on the NZQA list?
You may still apply, but will require IQA and additional verification. Contact us to check your eligibility.