Nursing in New Zealand
Registered nurses are in high demand across New Zealand. As a Green List occupation, nursing offers a fast-tracked pathway to both a work visa and permanent residence.
Green List
Priority Occupation
2 yrs
To Residence
95%
Visa Approval Rate
Licensed
Immigration Advisers (LAI)
Why Nurses Choose New Zealand
New Zealand has a significant and ongoing shortage of registered nurses. This means faster processing, stronger visa conditions, and a clear pathway to residency for qualified nurses.
Green List Occupation
Registered nursing is on the New Zealand Green List, meaning nurses can apply for residence after just 2 years of working in New Zealand — without needing to meet the Skilled Migrant points threshold.
High Demand Nationwide
Nursing vacancies exist in hospitals, aged care, community health, and primary care settings across New Zealand — including in regions that offer additional immigration incentives.
Competitive Salaries
New Zealand nurses are employed under the Nursing Pay Equity Settlement, which has significantly increased nursing wages. Most nurses earn well above the AEWV median wage threshold.
Pathway to Residency
After 2 years working as a registered nurse in New Zealand under an AEWV, you can apply directly for residence under the Green List Straight to Residence or Work to Residence pathway.
Bring Your Family
Your partner may be eligible for an open work visa and your dependent children may study at a New Zealand state school while you work and build toward residence.
Quality of Life
New Zealand consistently ranks among the best countries in the world for quality of life, safety, and natural environment — making it a popular destination for internationally qualified nurses.
What You Need to Qualify
To work as a nurse in New Zealand you must be registered with the Nursing Council of New Zealand (NCNZ). This is separate from your visa application and must be done first.
NCNZ Registration
You must apply for and obtain registration with the Nursing Council of New Zealand before you can work as a nurse. NCNZ assesses your overseas qualifications, English language ability, and competency.
English Language Proficiency
NCNZ requires evidence of English language ability — typically an IELTS score of 7.0 overall (no band below 6.5) or equivalent. Some countries are exempt.
Job Offer from Accredited Employer
You need a job offer from a New Zealand employer who holds AEWV accreditation. Your employer must also complete a job check before you can apply for the visa.
Valid Passport
Must be valid for the full duration of your intended stay plus at least three months beyond your planned departure date.
Medical Certificate
Required for most AEWV applicants. Must be completed by an INZ-approved physician.
Police Certificate
A character certificate from your home country and any country where you have lived for 12 months or more in the past 10 years.
How We Help You Get Here
We guide nurses through every stage — from NCNZ registration advice through to visa approval and arrival.
Free Assessment
We review your nursing qualifications, English test results, and NCNZ eligibility — and map out the fastest pathway to a New Zealand work visa and residence.
NCNZ Registration Support
We advise on the NCNZ registration process, help you understand what documents are required, and coordinate with your employer to ensure your registration and visa timelines align.
Employer Accreditation & Job Check
We assist your employer with AEWV accreditation and the job check application so the visa process can begin as soon as your NCNZ registration is confirmed.
Visa Application Lodgement
We prepare and lodge your AEWV application — including medical certificate, police clearance, and all supporting documents — and manage all INZ correspondence.
Residence Planning
From day one, we track your eligibility for the Green List residence pathway and advise you on timing so your residence application is ready to lodge as soon as you qualify.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to be registered with NCNZ before applying for a visa?
Yes. INZ requires evidence of NCNZ registration as part of your AEWV application. You cannot work as a nurse in New Zealand without it. We advise on the NCNZ process in parallel with your visa preparation so both are completed as efficiently as possible.
How long does NCNZ registration take?
NCNZ registration processing times vary depending on your country of training and how quickly you can gather documents. It typically takes 3 to 6 months. Starting early is essential — we advise on this at the initial assessment stage.
Is nursing on the Green List?
Yes. Registered Nurse is on the Green List as a Work to Residence occupation, meaning after 2 years of working in New Zealand in a qualifying nursing role you can apply for residence. Some specialist nursing roles qualify for Straight to Residence.
Can I work in aged care or community health as well as hospitals?
Yes. The Green List covers registered nursing across all healthcare settings — hospitals, aged care, primary health, and community nursing. The key is that you hold NCNZ registration and work in a registered nursing role.
What if my English test score is below NCNZ requirements?
If your English score does not meet NCNZ standards, you may need to resit the test. We can advise on which English tests NCNZ accepts and what preparation resources are available. Do not submit your NCNZ application until your English results meet the threshold.
Can my partner work while I am on my nursing visa?
Yes. As an AEWV holder, your partner is typically eligible for an open work visa allowing them to work for any employer in New Zealand. We manage partner visa applications alongside yours.
Ready to Nurse in New Zealand?
Our licensed advisers have helped nurses from all over the world navigate NCNZ registration and the AEWV process. Get a free assessment and find out how quickly you could be working in New Zealand.
