New Zealand will stop accepting at-home Occupational English Test (OET) results for immigration applications from July 13, 2026, requiring applicants to complete all parts of the English language test in person at supervised test centres.
The change, announced by Immigration New Zealand on Monday, will apply from midnight on July 12, 2026, New Zealand Standard Time (NZST). OET is an English language test commonly used by immigration applicants working in the health sector.
Only supervised test centre results to be accepted
Under the new rule, Immigration New Zealand will accept only OET results from tests completed entirely at supervised testing facilities. Applicants who take the test on or after July 13 must appear at an authorised test centre and will no longer be able to complete any part of the exam online from home.
The immigration authority said the change aims to "keep the testing process fair for everyone", "protect the integrity of the immigration system", and "make sure results reflect each person's own skills and ability."
Existing at-home OET scores remain valid
Applicants who have already completed an at-home OET or who will finish the test by July 12, 2026, can continue to use those results for their immigration applications.
Immigration New Zealand acknowledged that the new requirement may require some applicants to adjust their plans. It said it is working closely with OET to support a smooth transition and minimise disruption for test takers.
The updated policy affects only applicants using OET to meet English language requirements for New Zealand immigration and does not change the acceptance of other approved English language tests.
