Qualification Requirements for New Zealand Work Visa Jobs in 2025 According to NZQCF
Work in New Zealand in 2025? Know Your Qualification Level First
If you’re an international skilled worker planning to work in New Zealand in 2025, you need to understand how your qualifications match with New Zealand’s education standards. The key system for this is the New Zealand Qualifications and Credentials Framework (NZQCF).
What Is NZQCF?
The NZQCF is New Zealand’s official framework that ranks and recognizes all qualifications—from high school certificates to university PhDs, including short courses (called micro-credentials). It helps immigration officers, employers, and education providers understand the value of both local and overseas qualifications.
It is managed by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) and reflects not only academic knowledge but also traditional indigenous Māori knowledge (Mātauranga Māori).
Why NZQCF Matters for International Workers
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Visa Eligibility
Many work visas (like the Accredited Employer Work Visa and the Skilled Migrant Category) require your qualification to match a certain NZQCF level.-
For example, Level 7 may be required for professional or managerial jobs.
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Levels 3 to 6 are common for technical or trade roles.
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Qualification Recognition
If you studied outside New Zealand, you may need to get your degree assessed through International Qualification Assessment (IQA) by NZQA. This tells you which NZQCF level your qualification is equal to. -
Job Matching
Many New Zealand job ads clearly mention the required NZQCF level. Knowing your level helps you apply for suitable positions. -
Upskilling in New Zealand
If your current qualification doesn’t meet visa requirements, you can study in New Zealand to move up to a higher NZQCF level.
NZQCF Levels: From Basic to Doctorate
NZQCF has 10 levels. The higher the level, the more advanced the learning:
| Level | Qualification Types | Also Includes |
|---|---|---|
| 1-4 | Certificates | Micro-credentials |
| 5 | Certificates, Diplomas | Micro-credentials |
| 6 | Diplomas, Certificates | Micro-credentials |
| 7 | Bachelor’s Degree, Graduate Certificate/Diploma | Micro-credentials |
| 8 | Honours, Postgraduate Certificate/Diploma | Micro-credentials |
| 9 | Master’s Degree | Micro-credentials |
| 10 | Doctoral Degree | Micro-credentials |
Micro-credentials are short, skill-based courses available across all levels.
Steps to Work in New Zealand in 2025
Step 1: Check Your Qualification Level
Use NZQA’s Qualification Recognition Tool or apply for an IQA to confirm the NZQCF level of your degree or diploma.
Step 2: Search for Jobs by Qualification Level
Look for jobs that match your NZQCF level. This is especially important for regulated professions or jobs on New Zealand’s Green List (high-demand occupations).
Step 3: Apply for a Suitable Work Visa
Once you secure a job offer and confirm your qualification level, you can apply for one of these visas:
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Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)
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Skilled Migrant Category (SMC)
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Green List – Straight to Residence Visa
Who Manages the NZQCF?
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NZQA oversees certificates, diplomas, private training institutions, and polytechnics (Te Pūkenga).
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Universities New Zealand (CUAP) handles university-level degrees like bachelor’s, master’s, and PhDs.
Māori Knowledge and Cultural Inclusivity
NZQCF includes Mātauranga Māori—a unique feature that values indigenous knowledge systems. This reflects New Zealand’s commitment to recognizing traditional wisdom in both education and employment.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the NZQCF is essential for anyone planning to live and work in New Zealand. It helps you match your education with visa and job requirements, makes the immigration process smoother, and opens up options for further education if needed.
To get started, check your qualification level today and explore high-demand job opportunities aligned with your NZQCF level.
Source:
New Zealand Qualifications and Credentials Framework (NZQCF)
