To practice medicine in New Zealand, doctors need to be registered with the Medical Council of New Zealand (MCNZ) and obtain an Annual Practicing Certificate (APC). Eligibility depends on qualifications, work experience, and whether the doctor’s medical degree and experience (3+ years experience) is from a recognised country.

The registration process involves submitting relevant documentation (qualifications, proof of identity, experience), passing an English language test if required (such as IELTS), and possibly undergoing a Competence Assessment. The pathway to registration can vary depending on whether you are a recent graduate or an experienced specialist.

Yes, if your primary medical qualification is not from a country where English is the first and native language, you may need to pass an English language proficiency test (usually IELTS or OET) to demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively with patients and colleagues.

The process for registration with the MCNZ can take several months, depending on the completeness of documentation, the type of registration applied for.

This depends on where you obtained your qualifications. The MCNZ recognises certain qualifications from countries like the UK, Ireland, and Australia, among others. If your qualification is from a non-recognised country, you may need to undergo further assessments or exams. We have provided a link to the MCNZ registration self-assessment tool: https://www.mcnz.org.nz/registration/getting-registered/tool/

You can apply for registration in New Zealand, if you have recent experience in a comparable health system. The MCNZ recognises certain countries as having health systems comparable to New Zealand. Please check the links provided to ensure your experience qualifies you for registration in New Zealand.

Doctors can apply for a Skilled Migrant Category visa or a Work to Residence visa, depending on their circumstances. The visa process typically requires sponsorship from a New Zealand employer and proof of a valid job offer.

The Employment Agreements can be negotiated but will usually vary from 1-year fixed-term contracts to permanent positions, depending on the employer and the nature of the role. Some positions, especially in rural areas, offer long-term contracts with the potential for residency.

Yes, all medical professionals working in New Zealand must apply for an Inland Revenue Department (IRD) number for tax purposes before starting work.

New Zealand has a consistent demand for doctors. General Practitioners (GPs), specialists, and emergency medicine doctors are especially sought after. Job availability can vary by region and specialty.

New Zealand has a consistent demand for doctors, particularly in rural and underserved areas. General Practitioners (GPs), specialists, and emergency medicine doctors are especially sought after. Job availability can vary by region and specialty.

Salaries vary depending on the doctor’s specialty, experience, and the region they work in. Generally, junior doctors (house officers) can earn between NZD 80,000–120,000 per year, while specialists and consultants can earn between NZD 150,000–300,000+ per year.

New Zealand has a progressive tax system. Income tax rates range from 10.5% to 39%, depending on your income bracket. As a doctor, you’ll also need to consider other deductions, such as KiwiSaver (retirement savings) and ACC (Accident Compensation Corporation).

New Zealand has a dual healthcare system with both public and private sectors. The public system provides universal healthcare funded by the government, but many doctors also work in the private sector, particularly for elective surgeries and specialist consultations

New Zealand is known for promoting a good work-life balance. Compared to other countries, doctors in New Zealand generally work fewer hours and have more time for personal activities, especially if they work in non-urgent care settings like general practice.

Yes, many visas, including the Skilled Migrant Category and Work to Residence visas, allow doctors to bring their spouse/partner and children. Family members may also be eligible for work or study visas.

The cost of living varies significantly depending on the region. Auckland and Wellington tend to be more expensive, particularly in terms of housing. Rural areas generally have a lower cost of living, but certain goods and services may be more limited or expensive due to distance from major cities.

Popular cities for doctors include Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch, which have larger healthcare facilities and more job opportunities. However, smaller towns and rural areas may offer better financial incentives, work-life balance, and faster visa/residency processing.

The medical work culture in New Zealand is often described as collaborative and supportive, with an emphasis on teamwork and patient-centred care. The relatively flat hierarchical structure makes it easier for junior staff to engage with senior colleagues.

Many healthcare organisations offer relocation assistance. IPEK Critical workforce will help with finding accommodation, navigating immigration, enrolling with the Medical Council of New Zealand, and supporting your family’s integration into New Zealand life.

Doctors in New Zealand are required to participate in CPD activities to maintain their registration. These may include attending courses, workshops, conferences, or participating in peer review programs. Most employers offer support for CPD, and it is considered an integral part of the healthcare profession.

New Zealand residents and visa holders have access to the public healthcare system, which covers most essential services at low or no cost. Private health insurance is also available and can be used for faster access to elective services.

Doctos: General Practitioners Emergency medicine Obstetrics and Gynaecology Psychiatrists Anaesthetists General Surgeons Intensive care medicine Radiologists Internal medicine Orthopaedics

We provide comprehensive recruitment services, including job placement, visa assistance, and relocation support for doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals seeking to work in New Zealand.

Yes, we have extensive experience in guiding candidates through the registration process with the Medical Council of New Zealand or Nursing Council of New Zealand.

Absolutely! We offer support throughout the visa application process to ensure that you meet all requirements for working in New Zealand.

If relocation costs are not covered by the employer, we can provide information and assistance when required.

Yes, candidates are encouraged to apply for multiple job opportunities to increase their chances of securing a position that fits their skills and preferences.

We offer continued support post-placement, including assistance with settling into your new role and guidance on professional development opportunities available in New Zealand.