Step-by-step Guide: How to Get Registered as an International Nurse in New Zealand
Kia ora, and welcome to our guide on how to get registered as an international nurse in New Zealand! We know that the process of registering to work in a new country can be overwhelming, but we’re here to break it down into simple steps to make it easy for you.
Step 1: Check your eligibility
Before starting the registration process, it’s important to make sure you meet the eligibility criteria set by the Nursing Council of New Zealand (NCNZ). You can find detailed information about the criteria on their website, but here are some basic requirements:
- You must have a nursing qualification that meets the NCNZ’s standards
- You must have a current practicing certificate or registration in your home country
- You must have a minimum of two years of recent practice in nursing
Nursing Council of New Zealand’s eligibility criteria
If you meet these requirements, you can move on to the next step.
Step 2: Apply to the CGFNS
The first step in the registration process is to apply to the Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools (CGFNS). This organization verifies and evaluates your nursing education and registration to ensure that it meets the standards set by the NCNZ. The CGFNS will also help you with the documentation process and guide you through the steps required to get registered in New Zealand.
Step 3: Gather your documents
The next step is to gather all the necessary documents for your registration. This includes your nursing qualifications, registration or practicing certificate from your home country, proof of English language proficiency, and other documents as required by the NCNZ. You will also need to get your documents verified by the CGFNS.
Required Documents:
- Identity Documents
- Employment History
- Education History
- License Validation
- Language Proficiency
Exceptions:
- Australian nurses who hold an internationally recognized qualification are exempt from this requirement.
Fees:
- There is a $300 USD service fee for the Credentials Verification Service by CGFNS International, Inc. This fee is separate from the registration application fee for the Nursing Council of New Zealand.
Process:
- Start the process by submitting all the required documents to CGFNS International, Inc.
- After receiving all the documents, the verification process usually takes around 30 days.
- You can track your status through the CGFNS Application Status Tracker.
- Prospero recommends using the courier service to send and verify your documents for a faster process.
Step 4: Register with the NCNZ
Once you have completed the CGFNS process and have your documents verified, you can now apply to register with the Nursing Council of New Zealand (NCNZ).
The NCNZ will review your application and documents and determine if you meet their standards for registration. If you are successful, you will be issued a practicing certificate, which will allow you to work as a nurse in New Zealand.
Upon receiving your reports and documents, the Nursing Council of New Zealand will invite you via email to apply for registration. Again, you will have 30 days in which to complete this. The service fee at this stage is $485.00 NZD.
Begin your application here.
Step 5: Find a job with us and get ready to move!
Now that you’re registered to work as a nurse in New Zealand, it’s time to find a job and get ready to move.
Our recruitment agency specializes in helping international nurses find jobs across New Zealand. We have strong relationships with hospitals and healthcare providers across the country, and we can help you find a job that meets your skills, experience, and preferences.
In conclusion, the process of getting registered as an international nurse in New Zealand may seem daunting, but it’s achievable with the right guidance and support. Our team is here to help you every step of the way.
