The Most Likely Visa options for Doctors Coming to New Zealand: What You Need to Know
Are you a doctor looking to work in New Zealand? The process of securing a visa and finding employment may feel overwhelming, but with the right information, it can be a seamless experience. At STAT Recruitment, we specialize in helping healthcare professionals, including doctors, find work in New Zealand, and we are here to support you through the process.
While we’re not licensed immigration specialists ourselves and can’t provide specific advice on any visa applications, we have worked with many doctors who have successfully made the move to New Zealand. We have built strong relationships with some great licensed immigration specialists in the industry, and we can refer you to the right contacts to get that requirement of your journey started.
Here are some examples of the most common visa types our doctors have obtained in the past:
- Resident Visa: Skilled Migrant Category
The Skilled Migrant Category is one of the most popular pathways for doctors looking to move to New Zealand. It’s based on a points system, where your occupational registration or qualifications or income and skilled work experience in New Zealand contribute to your eligibility for residency.
To qualify as a doctor, you will need to:
- Skills and Qualifications: Your medical qualifications must be recognized by the New Zealand Medical Council (MCNZ). This usually involves verification and sometimes completing assessments to ensure your credentials meet New Zealand’s standards.
- Work Experience: The more years of relevant experience you have, the better your chances of qualifying.
- Job Offer: You must have a job offer with a New Zealand employer that holds Accredited Employer status with Immigration New Zealand, in order to apply.
- Meet the English language requirements
The Skilled Migrant Category offers a pathway to permanent residency and may be an option if you plan to settle long-term in New Zealand.
- Resident visa: Green List: Tier 1, Straight to Residence
New Zealand has identified a number of professions, including doctors, as being in demand. If you have a job offer in a medical role that’s listed on New Zealand’s Green List, you may be eligible for a Straight to Residence visa.
To apply for this visa, you’ll need:
- A job offer from a New Zealand employer that holds Accredited Employer status with Immigration NZ
- To meet the strict registration and qualification requirements
- To meet the English language requirements
- Accredited Employer Work Visa
The Accredited Employer Work Visa is another option for doctors, especially those with an offer from a recognized New Zealand employer. This visa allows you to work for an employer who is accredited by Immigration New Zealand, and it can make the visa process faster and more efficient.
To qualify, you’ll need:
- A job offer from an accredited employer in New Zealand.
- To meet the health and character requirements.
- To meet the specific work experience and/or qualification requirements specified in the Job Check.
This visa can last up to five years, and during that time, you can gain experience and potentially become eligible to apply for a resident visa.
- Working Holiday Visa
If you’re looking to experience New Zealand on a more temporary basis, the Working Holiday Visa could be a great option. This visa is typically for individuals aged 18 to 30 (or 35 in some cases) from certain countries and allows you to live and work in New Zealand for up to 12 months (or up to 36 months for some countries).
For doctors, this visa can be a good way to gain some experience working in New Zealand’s healthcare system without committing to long-term residency right away. While this visa won’t automatically lead to permanent residency, it may provide a flexible opportunity to explore New Zealand and decide whether you’d like to stay longer.
There are a lot of categories and detailed eligibility requirements for any type of visa application as they are complex, so for more detailed information on visa categories, your eligibility, and application processes, be sure to visit the Immigration New Zealand (INZ) website and the New Era Immigration website. These platforms provide up-to-date details on visa requirements, costs, and processing times.
- Immigration New Zealand website https://www.immigration.govt.nz/new-zealand-visas
- New Era Consulting (Licensed Immigration Consultants)
Seeking advice from a Licenced Immigration Consultant on your specific situation can help you avoid errors and costly mistakes for you and/or your family.
Helping You Find Work in New Zealand
At STAT Recruitment, we specialize in matching healthcare professionals, including doctors, with top job opportunities across New Zealand. Whether you’re looking for a short-term role to get a feel for the country or seeking a long-term career opportunity, we can help you navigate the process and find the perfect position for your skills and expertise.
We’ve developed strong relationships with hospitals, medical practices, and health organizations across the country, and we pride ourselves on providing personalized, efficient, and professional recruitment services. We understand the immigration process and the specific requirements for healthcare professionals, and we work closely with candidates to ensure they find the right fit.
Get in Touch with STAT Recruitment
While we are not licensed immigration advisors and can’t provide specific visa advice, we’re more than happy to help you find the right job in New Zealand’s healthcare system. We’ve worked with several reputable organisations in the past and can refer you to trusted partners who can guide you through the immigration process.
If you’re ready to explore opportunities in New Zealand, STAT Recruitment is here to assist. Contact us today, and we’ll help you take the first step toward your exciting new career in New Zealand!
New Zealand offers amazing opportunities for doctors, with a high demand for skilled medical professionals. Whether you’re looking to stay long term, permanently, or just experience New Zealand’s healthcare sector for a shorter period, there are several visa options available that may apply to your situation and eligibility. With the right resources and support, your journey to New Zealand can be both exciting and rewarding.
Good luck – and we hope to help you take the next step in your career!
