Update on English language testing requirements for immigration applications
Effective July 12, 2026, Immigration New Zealand (INZ) will only accept in-person Occupational English Test (OET) results for immigration applications that require OET as evidence of English language proficiency. All components of the test must be completed in person at a supervised testing facility.
The OET is commonly used by applicants working in healthcare professions. INZ has advised that the change is intended to support the integrity of the testing process, ensure fairness for all candidates, and confirm that test results accurately reflect an individual’s English language abilities.
Applicants who have already completed an at-home OET, or who complete the test on or before July 12, 2026, may continue to use those results for immigration purposes. Applicants taking the OET from July 13, 2026, onwards must complete the test in person at an approved test center.
This summary was prepared using information provided from the Immigration New Zealand
Disclaimer: The above information is provided for general information purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. If you have any further inquiries regarding the applicability of this information, please click to contact our Immigration Specialists.
