Discover the steps to register as an internationally qualified nurse in New Zealand and kickstart your career in healthcare.
To work as a nurse in New Zealand, it is important to understand the nursing registration process. The Nursing Council of New Zealand is the regulatory body responsible for setting the standards and requirements for nursing practice in the country. Nursing registration in New Zealand ensures that nurses meet the necessary qualifications and competencies to provide safe and effective care to patients. It also allows nurses to legally practice and use the title of a registered nurse.
The registration process for internationally qualified Nurses involves assessing the qualifications, skills, and experience of internationally qualified nurses to determine their eligibility to practice in New Zealand. This ensures that the quality of nursing practice is maintained at a high standard.
Nurses are listed on the Green List of occupations in New Zealand, which means there is a shortage of nurses and employers can hire migrants for these jobs. New Zealand also offers a Straight to Residence pathway for Nurses, allowing applicants to apply for Residence as soon as they find suitable employment.
Requirements for International Nurses
If you are an internationally qualified nurse seeking registration in New Zealand, there are certain requirements that you need to fulfil as listed below:
– A current registration/s held for the last 10 years.
– A Nursing qualification equivalent to NZ qualifications.
– A minimum level of English language proficiency, usually demonstrated through an English language test such as IELTS or OET.
– Proof of good standing with the nursing regulatory authority in the country of practice.
– Evidence of 1,800 hours post-registration nursing practice, typically within the last five years;
These requirements ensure that internally qualified nurses can provide safe and competent nursing care in New Zealand.
Process for Registration & moving to NZ
The application process involves several steps as below:
1. Meet the required English Language Proficiency test scores.
2. Gather the other required documents to prove health, character, qualifications and experience.
3. Verify and authenticate your documents with CGFNS.
4. Check if competence assessment is required which includes an IQN theoretical examination and a clinical competence assessment process.
5. Complete the IQN theoretical examination in your home country.
6. Get selected to appear for the clinical competence assessment in New Zealand.
7. Appear for the clinical competence assessment in New Zealand you are required to travel to New Zealand on a Visitor Visa.
8. Complete two free online courses on culturally safe nursing practice in New Zealand.
9. Apply for registration with the Nursing Council.
10. Start applying for jobs while in New Zealand.
11. Apply for a applicable visas for yourself and the family after securing suitable employment.
How can AJV Global assist?
> Our evaluation process involves assessing their qualifications, skills, English proficiency, and experience to determine their eligibility for various roles in New Zealand. We prioritise filling crucial skill shortages in a range of occupations that are in high demand in New Zealand. To achieve this, we work closely with recruitment partners to offer a select number of roles.
> In a comprehensive and personalised paid consultation, a highly qualified and experienced Licensed Immigration Adviser will carefully evaluate an applicant’s specific circumstances and assess their eligibility to meet the criteria for either an Accredited Employer Work Visa or a Resident Visa in New Zealand. The consultation will provide applicants with invaluable immigration advice for their future visas in New Zealand, including Permanent Residence, as well as visa options for their family members to accompany them. The Licensed Immigration Adviser will explain the complex immigration processes involved, and guide the necessary documentation and steps required to successfully obtain the desired visa. The consultation will ensure that the applicant is fully informed and well-prepared to make informed decisions about their future in New Zealand.
> Upon sign-up, applicants are provided with detailed checklists and guidance to meet the prerequisites for their occupation. This may include qualification assessments through NZQA, occupational registration with the respective board/council, English proficiency tests, and criminal checks.
> Our Job Connect Team offers training and support to help applicants apply for jobs on their own. We provide help in preparing CVs and cover letters, as well as guidance on networking through LinkedIn. Additionally, we collaborate with recruitment partners to offer a chance to secure high-demand roles. We also prepare applicants with comprehensive interview training to help make the right impression and increase their chances of securing the job. We cover various aspects of the interview process, including effective communication, body language, answering challenging questions, and cultural differences, among others. With our interview training, clients can feel more confident and prepared to ace the interview and get the job of their dreams.
> After receiving our constant support and guidance, our well-prepared applicants are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to confidently make job applications. We ensure that our applicants are fully prepared and equipped with the best practices, giving them the competitive edge they need to stand out from the crowd and secure a job. Once our applicants have been selected for a job, our dedicated Job Connect Team goes the extra mile to provide support in preparing them for the interview. We ensure that they are fully equipped with the skills and confidence required to make a lasting impression on the hiring manager.
> When a job offer is made to a client, it marks only the beginning of the process. Our team understands that obtaining a visa and complying with immigration policies can be complex and challenging. Therefore our Licensed Immigration Adviser conducts a thorough assessment of each Job Offer and employment agreement to ensure that it is suitable for obtaining a visa and meets all the necessary immigration requirements before accepting the same. This process is crucial in ensuring that our clients have a smooth and successful immigration experience.
> Our team of highly qualified and experienced Advisers are committed to walking our applicants through each stage of the application process, ensuring that they have all the necessary documents and that they are accurately completed and submitted. With our guidance, applicants can rest easy knowing that their visa application is in capable hands, and we will do everything possible to assist in obtaining the visas they require.
> We provide a one-of-a-kind pre-departure orientation program to guarantee a smooth migration experience for our clients and their families. The program includes essential information on travel recommendations, cultural norms, customs, healthcare, housing, and transportation in New Zealand. Additionally, during this session, clients can discuss any other requirements, such as financial asset relocation, comprehensive insurance, and moving services, to make their family’s transition to New Zealand as comfortable as possible. When new migrants arrive in New Zealand, our Onshore Support Team will be there to assist them with a variety of services to help them settle into their new environment. Our team can provide expert advice on how to rent a property, purchase a car, open bank accounts, apply for a tax number, choose a school, driver’s license conversions and other essential tasks that new migrants may need to complete. We understand that moving to a new country can be a daunting experience, which is why we are here to provide our clients with the support they need to make their transition as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Author: Mary Joseph, General Manager New Zealand and Licensed Immigration Adviser
