New Zealand, known for its breath taking landscapes and high standard of living, is also a land of growing healthcare demands. With an aging population and an increasing need for skilled healthcare workers, the country offers excellent opportunities for qualified nurses from abroad—especially those from the UAE. If you’re a nurse based in Dubai or anywhere in the UAE and considering working in New Zealand, here’s a detailed guide to help you understand how to secure a work visa and make a smooth transition.
1. Eligibility Criteria for Nurses to Work in New Zealand
To work as a registered nurse in New Zealand, there are several eligibility requirements that must be met:
a. Nursing Registration with the Nursing Council of New Zealand (NCNZ):
Before applying for a visa, overseas-trained nurses must obtain registration from the NCNZ. This involves:
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Holding a qualification comparable to New Zealand’s standards
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Having at least two years of recent nursing experience
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Proving English language proficiency (IELTS score of 7.0 in all bands or OET with a minimum grade B)
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Completing the Competency Assessment Program (CAP) in New Zealand, if required
b. Job Offer from an Accredited Employer:
Once registered, you must secure a job offer from a New Zealand employer accredited under the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) scheme.
c. Health and Character Requirements:
As part of your visa process, you must undergo a medical examination and provide police clearance certificates to show good character.
2. Types of Work Visas for Nurses
The most suitable visa for foreign nurses is the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV). Key features include:
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Valid for up to 3 years (extendable)
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Requires a job offer from an accredited employer
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Allows you to apply for residence later, depending on eligibility
Some experienced and highly skilled nurses may also be eligible under the Green List pathway, which allows direct residence or a fast-tracked pathway to PR.
3. Salary Range for Nurses in New Zealand
Salaries in New Zealand vary based on experience, region, and employer, but nurses are generally well-compensated.
Nursing Role | Salary Range (NZD/year) | Salary Range (AED/year) |
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Registered Nurse | NZD 64,000 – 85,000 | AED 144,000 – 191,000 |
Senior Nurse | NZD 85,000 – 100,000+ | AED 191,000 – 225,000+ |
Nurse Practitioner | NZD 100,000 – 120,000+ | AED 225,000 – 270,000+ |
Note: These figures are approximate and may vary by location and specialization.
4. Job Opportunities for Nurses in New Zealand
The healthcare sector in New Zealand is facing a critical shortage of skilled nurses, particularly in:
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Aged care facilities
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Emergency departments
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Mental health services
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Community health and midwifery
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Rural and regional hospitals
Registered nurses are listed on New Zealand’s Green List, which means the government recognizes this occupation as a priority for immigration. This enhances job opportunities and supports faster visa and residence processing.
5. Dependent Visa & Family Visa Options
One of the most attractive aspects of moving to New Zealand on a work visa is the ability to bring your family:
Spouse/Partner:
Your legally married or de facto partner can apply for a Partner of a Worker Work Visa. This visa usually allows them to work full-time in New Zealand.
Children:
Dependent children (under 18) are eligible for student visas and can attend public schools free of charge. Children above 18 may be eligible for other visa pathways based on their education and status.
Having your family with you makes transitioning to life in New Zealand easier and less stressful, allowing you to focus on your career.
6. Permanent Residency (PR) Pathways for Nurses
Nurses have promising PR options in New Zealand due to their high demand:
a. Green List Pathway:
As registered nurses are on Tier 1 of the Green List, they can apply for residence after 2 years of working in New Zealand, or even immediately under the straight-to-residence visa if their role qualifies.
b. Skilled Migrant Category (SMC):
Nurses who meet the point threshold (based on age, work experience, education, and job offer) can apply for PR under the SMC category.
c. Residence from Work Visa:
After completing 2 years on the AEWV, nurses may be eligible to apply for residence, provided they meet all health, character, and employment requirements.
How Nova Immigration Helps Nurses Migrate from Dubai, UAE to New Zealand
At Nova Immigration, we specialize in guiding skilled professionals—especially nurses—through the complex journey of migrating from Dubai or other parts of the UAE to New Zealand. Our expert team assists with every step of the process:
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Assessment of eligibility and credentials
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Support in NCNZ registration and CAP enrollment
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Securing job offers from accredited New Zealand healthcare employers
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Comprehensive visa application support for both main applicants and family members
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Advice on PR pathways and long-term settlement plans
Our mission is to simplify the New Zealand migration process and ensure that you and your family enjoy a smooth, stress-free transition to a rewarding life and career in New Zealand.
If you’re a nurse ready to take the leap, contact Nova Immigration today—your future in New Zealand awaits!