WE’RE HERE FOR ANY QUESTIONS ABOUT THE New Zealand HEALTHCARE INDUSTRY, FINDING A JOB HERE, AND MAKING THE MOVE

Our expert team know the ins and outs of the NZ health job recruitment, visa and moving process. They are available to answer any questions you may have so don’t hesitate to get in touch.
We have also listed some of our most commonly asked questions below.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

HOW WE HELP

What can you do to help me?

We understand that relocating to another country can be a huge and daunting step. The Working In NZ Health recruitment team is here to support you every step of the way and take all the stress away from finding your perfect role in New Zealand. We are a small team of friendly, approachable people with a wealth of New Zealand healthcare and recruitment knowledge – this work is our passion.  Please feel free to contact us https://workingin-health.co.nz/contact-us/ and we’ll be in touch to arrange a consultation.

Can I talk to someone in the recruitment team?

Yes, absolutely! We would love to meet you online. A free consultation will give you the opportunity to ask us any questions you have. It will also help us understand your plans, clinical skills and experience, so that we can provide the best advice and support.

Can I sign up with more than one recruitment agency?

Our preference is to work with you exclusively to find you the best opportunity that fits your skills and experience. We act as your advocate on the ground in New Zealand and make sure your new role ticks all of your boxes.

Is there a charge for your service?

No, our recruitment service is completely free!

What information do I need on my CV/ resume?

As part of our service, we can help with CV formatting.

You will need an up-to-date CV, including your employment history (most recent first), qualifications, and any additional training. Your employment history should include your position, employer, dates started and finished, and key clinical duties and responsibilities.

Do you help with interview preparation?

Yes, absolutely. As part of our service, we provide advice and support to get you ‘interview ready’.

Can you help all types of Health Professionals?

Yes, we assist Doctors, Nurses, Midwifes, and Allied Health and Technical professionals.

What qualifications do I need to work as a Healthcare Professional in NZ?

A Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent is normally required.

Registration

How do I get New Zealand registration?

You will need to apply for registration with the relevant New Zealand Regulatory Board.

For a list of health boards, see here.

Do I need NZ registration before I can get a job?

Not always. Some employers will consider offering a job if you have started the registration process, however, some employers prefer you to have New Zealand registration in place first. If you are planning on moving to New Zealand, we recommend getting started with registration straight away as this is an important sign of commitment to moving.

How much does registration cost?

This varies depending on the registration you require. Each registration board has information on the requirements, the process, and the costs.

Can you help me with the registration process?

Yes, we can support you with the process and will be on hand to help with any queries, but you will be required to complete the application and provide the relevant documentation.

How long does the process take?

This will depend on the particular regulatory board. Generally, you should allow around three to six months. Our advice is to start your application process as soon as you can. This will show potential employers that you are serious, and it will put you in a good position for a potential job offer. 

Will I need to do an English test?

You may be required to pass an approved English language test, depending on where you obtained your qualification and/or which country(s) you are registered in.

IELTS and OET are the recognised English language tests.

More information about the required scores specific to your registration can be found on the relevant board website.

Working In New Zealand

How long will it take to find a job in New Zealand?

We can start the job search process around six months before your expected arrival. Usually, we can secure a job for you in about two months. The time can vary depending on factors like your availability, the interview process, reference checking, selection, and contract preparation.

Do New Zealand employers offer sponsorship to overseas candidates?

No, NZ employers do not offer sponsorship. However, relocation allowances are commonly provided.  Part of our recruitment service is to negotiate the best package for you.

Relocation expenses (based on your individual employment agreement) are normally reimbursed in your first pay.

How much will I get paid in New Zealand?

This will depend on your profession and experience but, on average, Healthcare Professionals in New Zealand are paid well above the living wage, and Nurses have recently had a significant pay increase.

How much annual leave will I get?

You will be entitled to four weeks annual leave but some employers offer more. There are 11 public holidays (bank holidays) in New Zealand throughout the year.

How long are the shifts and how many hours will I be expected to work each week?

This will depend on the individual employer and your contract. For visa purposes, your contract must be a minimum of 30 hours per week. Full-time employment in New Zealand is 40 hours per week. A normal shift is eight hours.

Where in New Zealand do you have opportunities?

We have opportunities throughout the whole country – both in the North Island and South Island. We have extensive knowledge of every region and city, so first we can discuss your needs and then recommend the best location(s) for you.

Which employers do you work with?

We have close relationships with a nationwide network of employers both in the public and private sectors, including hospitals, clinics, and community health providers. Once we understand your experience, skills and preferences, we are dedicated to matching you with the most suitable employer.

Immigration and Visas

Is there an age limit for moving to NZ?

Only if you would like to apply for residency. You must be 55 years or younger to submit an application for residency.

How do I enquire about applying for a Visa?

We have an expert team of Licensed Immigration Advisors at Working In. They can advise you on current visa policy and recommend the best visa for you (and your family if applicable). We can manage the full visa process until final approval. If you would like to book a no-obligation chat, please start by completing a free eligibility assessment here.

How much will the Visa application cost?

This will depend on the type of visa and who is included in the application. You can book a no-obligation chat with one of our immigration experts to find out more. Please start by completing a free eligibility assessment here.

Can I bring my partner and children?

Yes, absolutely. If you are the principal visa applicant, you may be eligible to support a partner visa and dependent children. New Zealand is a great place for families and children! Our Visa team can provide you with detailed advice based on your personal circumstances.

Can I bring my cat or dog?

Yes, we have lots of families that bring their pets. Obviously, there are costs involved in this but we work with top relocation partners and can help you manage this aspect of your move.

Click here for a step-by-step guide.

How long will the visa process take?

This will depend on the individual visa application. An average processing time is around two months.

We recommend talking to one of our Licensed Immigration Advisors as soon as you have made the decision to move, so that you can start the preparation process.

How much money do I need to move to New Zealand?

Before you consider moving, it’s important to ensure that you will have sufficient funds to cover registration costs, visas, flights, shipping and other miscellaneous costs associated with moving. We can put you in touch with our relocation expert when you are ready to discuss this.   

LIVING IN NZ

Is schooling free in New Zealand?

New Zealand has an excellent education system, and public education is free for children aged 5-17 years. Find out more information here.

What is the cost of living like?

New Zealand is similar to other developed countries. According to livingcost.org, the average cost of living in NZ is 7% lower than in the UK, and 22% lower than in Australia.

How do I open a bank account?

You must hold a valid visa before you can open a New Zealand bank account but you can do this before your arrival. We can help you with this. Here is more information.

What are the tax rates like?

See here for New Zealand tax rates.

Will I need a driver’s licence

You can use your overseas driver’s license for a maximum of 12 months from your date of entry into New Zealand but it is advisable to get a New Zealand licence as soon as you can.

Find out how here.

TRUSTED NZ BASED RECRUITMENT TEAM  |  LICENSED NZ IMMIGRATION ADVISERS  |  FULLY SUPPORTED PROCESS