English Language Tests for New Zealand Visas

Immigration New Zealand trusts and accepts IELTS as proof of English language proficiency for all visa categories. In fact, IELTS is the only test accepted by all immigration authorities of New Zealand, Australia, Canada, and the UK.

For migration to New Zealand, you may need to show that you understand the English language. So, to prove this, Immigration New Zealand can ask you to show that you’ve done an official English language test, like IELTS. You may also have to show that in the 2 years before you apply you have gained the minimum scores needed for your visa.

Book IELTS for your visa

When you migrate to New Zealand and are applying for a visa, you may come across different English language proficiency levels. For example, there is functional English and vocational English. But also competent English, proficient English and even superior English. Each of these levels has a different IELTS score.

Full list of New Zealand Visas and IELTS Scores

Required Level of English for Migration to New Zealand

The principal applicant, their partner, and any dependent children aged 16 and over must all speak and understand English. Most of the time, Immigration New Zealand asks you to show this in your application with English language test results, such as an official IELTS Test Report Form. But, sometimes you are exempted from taking an English language test.

Book your IELTS test in New Zealand.

Exemptions to English Requirements for Immigration New Zealand

If one of the following applies, you don't need to provide test results:

• You are a citizen of Canada, Ireland, the United Kingdom or the United States, and you have spent at least 5 years working or studying in those countries, or Australia or New Zealand.

• You have a qualification similar to a New Zealand level 7 bachelor's degree gained in Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, the United Kingdom or the United States, and you studied for at least 2 years in any of those countries to get that qualification.

• You have a qualification gained in Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, the United Kingdom or the United States, which is comparable to a postgraduate New Zealand qualification. You must have studied for at least 1 year in any of those countries to get that qualification.

IELTS validity for Immigration New Zealand

If you need test results for your New Zealand visa application, they must be 2 years old or less at the time you apply. If your test results are older than two years, you need to book a test.

Immigration and the law

The content on this page is for general information on immigration to New Zealand and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Legislation about immigration changes frequently. It’s important to check the Immigration New Zealand website for changes that may apply to you. If you are interested in New Zealand student and work visas or looking to migrate permanently, you need to apply with the New Zealand Government. You may consider getting support from a lawyer or registered New Zealand Immigration Consultant.