In New Zealand, registered nurses are listed under Tier 1 of the Green List roles, making it easier for them to obtain visas under the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) category or the Straight to Residence Visa category. Nursing in New Zealand is a highly esteemed and sought-after profession. International nurses can pursue a career in New Zealand by obtaining Nursing Registration from the Nursing Council of New Zealand (NCNZ) as Internationally Qualified Nurses (IQN). To apply, nurses must meet specific requirements related to qualifications and experience to ensure the quality of the healthcare system in New Zealand remains excellent and that the nurses are well-suited for their roles.
Once registered with the NCNZ, internationally qualified nurses can explore various employment opportunities in hospitals, clinics, aged care facilities, and community health organizations across New Zealand. The country offers a diverse and welcoming environment for nurses from different cultural backgrounds to thrive and contribute to the well-being of its population. Additionally, the government and healthcare institutions provide support programs to help international nurses settle into their new roles and adapt to the local healthcare system. Overall, New Zealand presents a promising and fulfilling career path for registered nurses seeking to make a positive impact in a developed country.
In this article, you can find the information on Nursing Registration New Zealand Requirements that were updated by the Nursing Council of New Zealand. The document requirements are outlined in detail, along with a breakdown of the steps that incur fees. If you are planning to work in New Zealand as a registered nurse then apply for it through West Highlander to get a high success rate. We can guide you through the registration process, requirements, visitor visa and then permanent residency in New Zealand.
Nursing Registration in New Zealand Requirements
On 4th December 2023, the Nursing Council of New Zealand (NCNZ) updated their regulations for Nursing Registration. Now with this, the Nursing Registration in New Zealand Requirements are also updated.
Previously, the NCNZ assessed nurses based on the Competence Assessment Program (CAP). However, the process and criteria have since been altered, and the CAP program is no longer in use. The NCNZ has introduced a new system to evaluate nurses’ competency. This updated procedure emphasizes a thorough and modernized method to guarantee that nurses deliver safe and top-notch care to their patients. The new criteria encompass factors like continuous professional development, assessments of clinical skills, and compliance with ethical standards. By adapting to the evolving healthcare environment, the NCNZ strives to assist nurses in their ongoing progress and improvement, ultimately enhancing both the healthcare system and the communities they cater to. The updated Nursing Registration in New Zealand Requirements are:
Work Experience Requirement
Nurses seeking Nursing Registration in New Zealand must have a minimum of 1800 hours of nursing experience within the last 10 years. Once this criterion is met, applicants can proceed with the Nursing Registration application in New Zealand through CGFNS (Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools). It is essential to remember that applicants must first apply to CGFNS to validate their documents before applying directly to the Nursing Council of New Zealand.
Qualification and Registration as Nurse
Internationally Qualified Nurses (IQN) must meet specific qualifications to register as nurses in New Zealand. These criteria ensure the maintenance of healthcare standards in New Zealand. By meeting these requirements, IQN can effectively contribute to the healthcare sector in New Zealand and deliver top-notch care to patients nationwide. To apply through CGFNS, candidates need to be currently registered as a nurse with an overseas registration authority within the past 10 years. Furthermore, they should have completed a Bachelor of Nursing degree (or equivalent) or a Master’s degree in nursing that led to their registration. These qualifications must be equivalent to New Zealand qualifications.
English language Requirements
The Internationally Qualified Nurses must pass two language proficiency tests to be eligible for the Nursing Registration in New Zealand: IELTS and OET.
IELTS Academic: The minimum required score is a band score is 7, in reading, listening and speaking and a minimum band score of 6.5 in writing.
OET (Occupational English Test): IQN is required to score a minimum of 350 in speaking, listening and reading and a minimum of 300 in writing.
The candidates have the opportunity to reach the minimum English Language test scores by taking the test multiple times within a year of their initial attempt. This flexibility enables candidates to pace themselves, giving them sufficient time to enhance their scores. With multiple sittings allowed within a year, candidates can concentrate on specific areas for improvement and steadily progress towards achieving their target scores. This method fosters a growth mindset, allowing candidates to demonstrate their language proficiency progressively. It encourages an inclusive testing approach that emphasizes ongoing learning and advancement.
Identity Proof
The first step of the Nursing Registration is document verification by CGFNS. One crucial document to be verified is your Identity. To fulfil this requirement, applicants need to submit coloured copies of a certified valid passport along with another identity document that includes a clear photo of the applicant to verify the name. All identity documents submitted for the registration application must be valid at the time of application to CGFNS. The approved forms of photo identification (ID) documents are:
- Passport (mandatory)
- Driver’s License
- Other government-issued ID
Additional acceptable forms of identification comprise:
- Birth certificates
- Marriage certificates
- Divorce certificates
In case of the name change the applicants are needed to provide a Legal name change affidavits.
Competent to Practice
The nurses applying need to complete a competence assessment to prove that they are competent to practice nursing in New Zealand. This is checked through a series of exams to check the ethics, nursing knowledge, clinical knowledge, etc.
Welcome to the Aotearoa New Zealand program
The initial phase involves completing two free online courses for students to gain an understanding of culturally safe nursing practice in New Zealand. The applicants are required to pass these two tests in order to become registered nurses in New Zealand. These tests are accessible for online completion from home and consist of:
- Test 1: Ngā Paerewa Te Tiriti Module 1
- Test 2: Foundations in Cultural Competence
Theoretical Exam
The second step of the process involves nurses taking an online theoretical exam. This assessment tests their nursing knowledge and can be completed globally at a Pearson VUE-accredited Nursing Council exam centre. The exam consists of two parts:
- Part A: Medication Safety
- Part B: Nursing Knowledge
To successfully navigate this assessment, candidates must demonstrate their knowledge and skills in both Part A and Part B. However, if you find yourself facing the challenge of not passing the exam or any one part of it, then you have the opportunity to retake the exam, albeit with additional fees. This option allows you to review your performance, identify areas for improvement, and come back stronger in your next attempt.
OSCE Exam
The Objective Structured Clinical Exam (OSCE) is a thorough two-day orientation and preparation program that concludes with a 3-hour OSCE exam. This clinical assessment takes place in person at an accredited examination centre in New Zealand. Candidates qualified for this examination must visit New Zealand on a New Zealand Visitor Visa to participate. In the event of failing the OSCE, candidates have the option to retake the exam.
Fitness to Practice
Additional steps in the process involve a Fitness to Practice evaluation. This assessment is a mandatory requirement once you receive an invitation to register with the Nursing Council. As part of the process, all applicants must undergo an International Criminal History Check (ICHC) conducted by Fit2work.
Cost Requirements for Nursing Registration in New Zealand
Throughout the nursing registration process, applicants must pay specific fees at each stage. Firstly, the applicants need to pay fees for document verification at CGFNS. After submitting the initial application for nursing registration, applicants will need to pay the required processing fee. Once the application is reviewed and approved, there will be additional fees for the examination and background check.
By understanding the breakdown of fees and being prepared for each step, applicants can navigate the registration process with confidence and ease. Here is a breakdown of the steps that require payment, along with the exact amounts.
| The Steps | FEES IN NZ$ |
| CGFNS verification service | $489 |
| Nursing Council application & processing | $485 |
| International Criminal History Check (ICHC) | $169 |
| IQN Theoretical Examination | $140 |
| Part A of Theoretical Exam: Medication Safety (RETAKE) | $32 |
| Part B of Theoretical Exam: Nursing Knowledge (RETAKE) | $108 |
| OSCE Orientation & Preparation Course | $500 |
| OSCE – Clinical Examination | $3,000 |
| OSCE – Clinical Examination (RETAKE) | $3,000 |
After Nursing Registration in New Zealand
After completing the registration process and passing the exams, applicants are now at the final stage of relocating to New Zealand. The next step in the process involves applying for Permanent Residency in New Zealand. Nursing in New Zealand falls under Tier 1 of the Green List roles, making it simpler for candidates to pursue permanent residency and settle in New Zealand through a Straight to Resident Visa. This visa category enables individuals in Tier 1 of the Green List roles who fulfil the Green List criteria to apply for residency directly, without the need to work in New Zealand for two years beforehand. The Straight to Resident Visa provides a wonderful opportunity for skilled nurses to make New Zealand their home without the requirement of prior work experience in the country. This streamlined process acknowledges the value that nurses bring to the community and aims to attract and retain talented healthcare professionals who can contribute to the well-being of New Zealand’s residents.
Nursing Registration in New Zealand through LIA
Indian nurses seeking to register as nurses in New Zealand and kick start their nursing career in the country can receive support for their application from West Highlander. With over 18 years of experience in assisting applicants in obtaining New Zealand visas, our director, Ms Parwinder Kaur, who is an LIA (Licensed Immigration Adviser), is equipped to lead you through each step of the process. Navigating the Nursing Registration process in New Zealand may appear difficult, but with West Highlander’s expertise, you can be confident that you are in capable hands. Whether it’s Nursing Registration in New Zealand, visitor visas for the OSCE exam, applying for a New Zealand Work Visa, or Permanent Residency after the registration we ensure a seamless and efficient process. Count on West Highlander to deliver excellent services to make your journey stress-free and successful.
Our team at West Highlander understands the unique challenges and opportunities that come with pursuing a nursing career in a new country. We are dedicated to providing personalized assistance tailored to your specific needs, ensuring that you have all the information and support necessary to achieve your goals. From nursing registration and visa applications to Permanent Residency in New Zealand, we are committed to being your reliable partner every step of the way.