English language test results for entrepreneurs and employees relocating to NZ

Find out which English language test results are acceptable if you are applying for an entrepreneur visa or you are the employee of a business that is relocating to NZ.

English language test results we accept

Your English language test results

Your result must be no more than 2 years old at the time you apply and must be obtained by sitting the test in person at a test centre. Tests taken remotely outside of a test centre, such as ‘at home’ tests are not acceptable.

Check Table 1 to find out which English language test results we accept if you are the principal applicant for an:

  • Employees of Relocating Business Resident Visa
  • Entrepreneur Resident Visa, or
  • Entrepreneur Work Visa.

IELTS One Skill Retake (OSR)

In 2023 the International English Language Test System (IELTS) provider introduced a One Skill Retake option for both their Academic and General Training tests. The IELTS One Skill Retake must be completed within 60 days of the original test date.

Cambridge language assessments

The Cambridge English: First (FCE) is now called B2 First.

The Cambridge English: First for Schools (FCE) is now called B2 First for Schools.

Table 1: Test and score required
Test Minimum score you need

International English Language Testing System (IELTS):

4 overall

Test of English as a Foreign Language internet-Based Test (TOEFL iBT)

31 overall

Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic)

29 overall

Cambridge English B2 First

142 overall

Cambridge B2 First for Schools

142 overall

Occupational English Test (OET)
Paper or computer-based test

Grade D or higher in all 4 skills — listening, reading, writing and speaking.

You need this score in all 4 skills because there is no overall grade for this test.

Other ways to show English proficiency

Instead of taking an English language test, you can meet our English language requirements by:

  • proving you have an English-speaking background that is at the level needed for your visa
  • purchasing English language lessons for your partner and dependent children aged 16 and older, as part of your visa application.

English-speaking background

Learning English after you come to New Zealand