New Zealand actively recruits international nurses — and there are direct pathways from AEWV to permanent residence for nurses. Here's the complete picture for internationally trained nurses.
Can Nurses Immigrate to New Zealand? Visa Options and Requirements
New Zealand has a sustained and serious nursing shortage. The country actively recruits internationally trained nurses, and registered nurses appear on both tiers of New Zealand's Green List — meaning there are structured, direct pathways to permanent residence for nurses who qualify.
Here is a comprehensive picture for internationally trained nurses looking at New Zealand.
Nursing Council of New Zealand (NCNZ) Registration
Before you can work as a nurse in New Zealand, you must be registered by the Nursing Council of New Zealand (NCNZ). This is mandatory — your visa will be conditioned on having (or being eligible for) NCNZ registration.
The NCNZ assesses:
Whether your nursing qualification is comparable to a 3-year New Zealand nursing degree
Your clinical competency through the competency assessment process
Your English language proficiency
Your good character (police clearance)
How long does NCNZ registration take? The initial assessment and competency process typically takes 3 to 6 months. The NCNZ may grant provisional registration first, allowing you to work under supervision while your registration is assessed.
English Language Requirements
NCNZ requires strong English:
IELTS Academic: Minimum 7.0 overall with no band below 6.5
OET: Grade B in all components (Reading, Writing, Listening, Speaking)
These are high thresholds — higher than many other immigration pathways. If you are an English-speaking South African, UK, or Irish nurse, you may be exempt — check NCNZ's exemption policy.
Visa Options for Nurses
Option 1: Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)
The most common starting point. Your New Zealand employer must be accredited; the role must go through a job check. Once approved, your AEWV is granted for up to 3 years. Nursing salaries in NZ typically meet or exceed the median wage threshold (NZD $31.61/hour), which is the main salary requirement.
Option 2: Green List Work to Residence (Tier 2)
Registered Nurses are on Green List Tier 2 for most specialties. This means: work in New Zealand as a registered nurse for 2 years on an AEWV → then apply for residence through the Work to Residence pathway. You do not need to go through the SMC EOI pool.
Option 3: Green List Straight to Residence (Tier 1)
Certain nursing specialties are on Tier 1. Check the current Green List for which specialties qualify for straight-to-residence. ICU, neonatal, mental health, and midwifery specialties have been included on Tier 1 at various times.
Option 4: Skilled Migrant Category
If you are already working in NZ as a nurse and earning at or above the median wage, you likely have enough points for SMC residence without needing to wait 2 years.
What Salaries Do Nurses Earn in New Zealand?
New Zealand public health system nurses are employed under the Nursing Collective Agreement. As of 2024:
Registered Nurse (Year 1): NZD ~$65,000/year
Registered Nurse (Year 5+): NZD ~$80,000–$95,000/year
Specialist/Senior Nurse: NZD $95,000–$120,000+
Private hospital salaries vary but are broadly comparable. These are pre-tax figures — New Zealand has income tax, unlike Saudi Arabia.
The Practical Pathway
Most internationally trained nurses follow this route:
Obtain NCNZ provisional registration
Secure a job offer from a DHB (District Health Board) or private hospital
Employer obtains accreditation and job check
AEWV granted
After 2 years: Work to Residence residence application
Permanent resident of New Zealand