$83,000 Healthcare Jobs in New Zealand for Nigerians

New Zealand isn’t just scenic mountains and friendly sheep (though both are pretty amazing). A total of 48 health roles are on the Immigration Green List, enabling eligible people to apply to work in New Zealand through the Straight to Residence pathway. Translation? Your nursing degree from the University of Nigeria or your medical training from College of Medicine, University of Lagos, could be your golden ticket to not just a job, but permanent residence.

Here’s what makes New Zealand special for Nigerian healthcare workers:

The Numbers Don’t Lie:

• The average salary for a Registered Nurse is $79,050 per year in New Zealand
• Work-life balance that actually exists (40-hour work weeks are standard, not aspirational)
• Universal healthcare system where you’re making a difference, not just profit
• Green List roles that allow you to apply for a residence visa immediately or after 2 years of working

What Healthcare Jobs Are in High Demand in New Zealand?

Let’s cut straight to the chase – New Zealand’s healthcare system is crying out for skilled professionals, and Nigerian-trained healthcare workers are exactly what they need.

Top-Demand Healthcare Roles for Nigerians

Nursing Positions (The Golden Opportunity)

• Registered Nurses: All specialties welcome
• Mental health nurses: Critical shortage areas
• Emergency department nurses: High-demand specialty
• Aged care specialists: Growing sector due to aging population

Medical Practitioners

• General Practitioners: Rural areas especially desperate
• Emergency medicine doctors: Fast-track visa pathway
• Psychiatrists: Mental health is a national priority
• Specialists in cardiology, oncology, and radiology

Allied Health Professionals

• Physiotherapists: Strong demand across all regions
• Healthcare assistants: Entry-level pathway with visa sponsorship
• Medical laboratory technologists: Technical skills highly valued
• Community health workers: Culturally diverse teams needed

The Green List Advantage

Here’s something most people don’t understand about New Zealand’s immigration system – it’s designed to fast-track healthcare workers. If your role is listed on the Green List, and you have the qualifications, registration or experience required, you may be able to apply for a residence visa immediately or after 2 years of working.

For Nigerian healthcare workers, this is huge. It means your path from Lagos to permanent New Zealand residency could be as short as two years.

Role Category	Visa Pathway	Time to Residence	Average Salary (NZD)
Registered Nurse	Green List – Work to Residence	2 years	$79,000-85,000
Medical Practitioner	Green List – Straight to Residence	Immediate	$150,000-400,000+
Physiotherapist	Green List – Work to Residence	2 years	$70,000-95,000
Healthcare Assistant	Work Visa + Pathway	3-5 years	$50,000-65,000

Do I Need a Visa to Work in Healthcare in New Zealand?

Short answer: Yes, absolutely. If you’re planning to work in New Zealand and you’re not a citizen or permanent resident of NZ or Australia, you’ll need a visa that lets you work.

But here’s where it gets interesting for Nigerian healthcare professionals – you’ve got several visa pathways, and some are much faster than others.

Visa Options for Nigerian Healthcare Workers

Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) This is your most likely first step. You can apply for this visa if you have a job offer from an accredited employer. The employer must send you a link to the online application form.

What this means for you:

• Your New Zealand employer does the heavy lifting
• Visa duration: 7 months to 5 years depending on your role
• Fast processing for healthcare roles
• Can lead to residence pathways

Green List Work Visa For healthcare roles on the Green List, this is your express lane to New Zealand.

Two pathways:

1. Straight to Residence: Apply directly for residence (doctors, specialists)
2. Work to Residence: Work for 2 years, then apply for residence (nurses, allied health)

Care Workforce Work to Residence Visa After you have had a Care Workforce Work to Resident Visa for 2 years in a row, you can apply for a Permanent Resident Visa.

Perfect for aged care and disability support workers – sectors where Nigerian compassion and cultural sensitivity are highly valued.

How Much Do Healthcare Workers Earn in New Zealand?

Let’s talk money, because I know that’s on your mind. The earning potential in New Zealand’s healthcare sector might just surprise you.

Real Salary Data for Nigerian Healthcare Workers

Nursing Salaries:

• Average salary for a Registered Nurse is $79,050 per year
• The average registered nurse salary in New Zealand is $110,292 or an equivalent hourly rate of $53 (experienced nurses)
• Entry-level Nigerian nurses: NZ$65,000-75,000
• Specialized nurses (ICU, Emergency): NZ$85,000-110,000

Medical Doctor Salaries:

• General Practitioners: NZ$150,000-250,000
• Specialists: NZ$200,000-450,000
• Emergency doctors: NZ$180,000-300,000
• Consultants: NZ$250,000-500,000

Allied Health Salaries:

• Physiotherapists: NZ$70,000-95,000
• Healthcare assistants: NZ$50,000-65,000
• Medical technologists: NZ$65,000-85,000

Cost of Living Reality Check

Before you start planning your spending, here’s the reality of New Zealand living costs:

Major Cities (Auckland, Wellington):

• Rent: NZ$400-800/week for decent accommodation
• Groceries: NZ$150-200/week for a family
• Transport: NZ$50-100/week
• Utilities: NZ$150-250/month

Regional Areas (Hamilton, Tauranga, Dunedin):

• 20-30% lower living costs
• Better work-life balance
• Often easier visa pathways
• Strong community support for new immigrants

What Qualifications Do I Need to Work in Healthcare in New Zealand?

Here’s where your Nigerian qualifications either open doors or create hurdles – it all depends on how you navigate the recognition process.

Nigerian Qualifications Recognition

The Good News: New Zealand generally recognizes qualifications from reputable Nigerian institutions, especially:

• University of Ibadan medical programs
• University of Lagos nursing degrees
• Obafemi Awolowo University health sciences
• University of Nigeria medical training

The Process: Every healthcare profession has its own regulatory body, and you’ll need to register with the right one.

Registration Bodies by Profession

Nursing Council of New Zealand (NCNZ)

• The regulatory authority responsible for the registration of nurses
• CVS-NCNZ fee is $380 USD plus NCNZ’s registration application fee of $485 NZ
• Process includes competency assessment program
• English language requirements (IELTS or OET)

Medical Council of New Zealand

• For doctors and medical practitioners
• AMC examination may be required
• Supervised practice period typically needed
• Registration fees around NZ$1,500-3,000

Allied Health Professional Bodies

• Physiotherapy Board of New Zealand
• Pharmacy Council of New Zealand
• Medical Sciences Council of New Zealand

The Nigerian Advantage

Here’s something that might surprise you – your Nigerian training often includes experiences that New Zealand desperately needs:

Resourcefulness: Working in resource-limited settings makes you incredibly adaptable Cultural competency:Nigeria’s diversity prepares you for New Zealand’s multicultural healthcare environment Clinical skills: Nigerian medical training is rigorous and comprehensive Community health focus: Perfect match for New Zealand’s public health priorities

Is There a Pathway to Permanent Residence Through Healthcare Jobs?

Absolutely, and this is where New Zealand’s immigration system really shines for healthcare workers. Unlike many countries that keep you on temporary visas indefinitely, New Zealand has clear pathways to permanent residence.

Green List Pathways

Straight to Residence (Immediate Pathway):

• Medical practitioners
• Specialist nurses (ICU, theatre, emergency)
• Medical imaging technologists
• Senior healthcare roles

Work to Residence (2-Year Pathway):

• Registered nurses (general)
• Physiotherapists
• Healthcare assistants in aged care
• Community health workers

The Two-Year Journey

Let me walk you through what the typical pathway looks like for a Nigerian nurse:

Year 1:

• Arrive on work visa with job offer
• Complete registration with NCNZ
• Begin supervised practice period
• Settle into New Zealand life

Year 2:

• Full registration achieved
• Demonstrate competency in role
• Build professional networks
• Prepare residence application

Month 24:

• Submit residence application
• Continue working while application processes
• Plan for family reunion (if applicable)

Month 30-36:

• Residence visa approved
• Apply for permanent resident visa
• Full access to all New Zealand services
• Pathway to citizenship after 5 years

Which Cities in New Zealand Have the Most Healthcare Job Opportunities?

Location matters more than you might think. Some New Zealand cities are goldmines for healthcare opportunities, while others might leave you struggling to find the right fit.

Major Healthcare Hubs

Auckland (The Megacity)

• Population: 1.7 million (third of New Zealand’s population)
• Healthcare facilities: Auckland City Hospital, North Shore Hospital, Middlemore Hospital
• Nigerian community: Largest in New Zealand, strong support networks
• Opportunities: Abundant but competitive
• Salary premium: 10-15% higher than national average
• Cost of living: Highest in New Zealand

Wellington (The Capital)

• Population: 500,000
• Healthcare facilities: Wellington Regional Hospital, Hutt Valley Hospital
• Government jobs: Ministry of Health opportunities
• Work-life balance: Excellent
• Nigerian community: Growing professional network
• Unique advantage: Policy and administrative healthcare roles

Christchurch (The Rebuild City)

• Population: 400,000
• Healthcare facilities: Christchurch Hospital (major trauma center)
• Opportunities: Excellent post-earthquake reconstruction
• Housing: Most affordable major city
• Community: Tight-knit, welcoming to immigrants

Regional Goldmines (Hidden Opportunities)

Hamilton

• Major hospital serving Waikato region
• 30% lower living costs than Auckland
• Strong rural health networks
• Easy pathway to residence through regional employment

Tauranga

• Fastest-growing city in New Zealand
• Aging population creating healthcare demand
• Beautiful coastal lifestyle
• Growing Nigerian expatriate community

Dunedin

• University city with medical school
• Research opportunities
• Very affordable living
• Strong international student support networks

City	Healthcare Jobs	Nigerian Community	Cost of Living	Visa Advantage
Auckland	High	Largest	High	Competitive
Wellington	High	Growing	Medium-High	Government roles
Christchurch	High	Medium	Medium	Rebuild opportunities
Hamilton	Medium	Small	Low-Medium	Regional priority
Tauranga	Growing	Small	Medium	Growth area

Can International Nurses Work Immediately Upon Arrival in New Zealand?

Here’s the reality check you need: No, you cannot work immediately as a registered nurse upon arrival. But don’t let that discourage you – there’s a clear pathway, and it’s faster than many other countries.

The Registration Timeline

Phase 1: Initial Assessment (1-3 months)

• Submit application to Nursing Council of New Zealand
• Credential verification through approved services
• English language test (if required)
• Pay fees (approximately NZ$485 + USD$380 for verification)

Phase 2: Competency Assessment Program (CAP) This is where many Nigerian nurses initially struggle, but with proper preparation, it’s very manageable.

What’s involved:

• Written examination testing New Zealand nursing standards
• Clinical skills assessment
• Understanding of New Zealand healthcare system
• Cultural competency evaluation

Duration: 3-6 months depending on your performance and English proficiency

Phase 3: Supervised Practice Period

• Work under supervision of experienced New Zealand nurse
• Duration: Usually 3-6 months
• Full salary during this period
• Mentorship and professional development

Phase 4: Full Registration

• Apply for Annual Practicing Certificate
• Full nursing practice privileges
• Independent practice allowed
• Pathway to specialization

Smart Preparation Strategies

Before You Leave Nigeria:

• Start English language preparation early (aim for IELTS 7+ in all bands)
• Research New Zealand nursing practices and standards
• Connect with Nigerian nurses already working in New Zealand
• Gather all educational and professional documents

Upon Arrival:

• Join professional networks and study groups
• Utilize free English language support programs
• Connect with cultural communities for support
• Consider additional short courses to bridge any gaps

What Is the Registration Process for International Healthcare Workers?

The registration process is your make-or-break moment, and understanding it thoroughly can save you months of delays and thousands of dollars in repeated fees.

Nursing Registration Deep Dive

Step 1: Eligibility Assessment Your Nigerian nursing degree needs to meet New Zealand standards. The good news? Most degrees from recognized Nigerian universities are accepted, including:

• University of Lagos
• University of Ibadan
• Obafemi Awolowo University
• University of Port Harcourt
• Ahmadu Bello University

Step 2: English Language Requirements

• IELTS Academic: Minimum 7.0 in all bands
• OET: Grade B in all sub-tests
• TOEFL iBT: Minimum 94 with specific sub-scores
• PTE Academic: Minimum 65 in all sections

Nigerian advantage: If you completed your nursing education in English, you might be exempt from English testing.

Step 3: Competency Assessment Program (CAP) This is unique to New Zealand and designed to ensure you understand:

• New Zealand healthcare system
• Cultural competency requirements
• Legal and ethical frameworks
• Clinical practice standards

What makes it challenging for Nigerians:

• Different medication names and protocols
• Electronic health record systems
• Patient rights legislation
• Bicultural competency (Māori health perspectives)

Success strategies:

• Study New Zealand nursing textbooks beforehand
• Join CAP preparation groups
• Practice with simulation software
• Understand Treaty of Waitangi implications for healthcare

Medical Registration for Doctors

Medical Council of New Zealand (MCNZ) Process:

Pathway 1: Overseas Trained Doctors (OTDs)

• Assessment of medical qualifications
• AMC Part 1 and 2 examinations (may be required)
• English language testing
• Supervised practice period (1-2 years)

Pathway 2: Specialist Registration

• Recognition of specialist qualifications
• Fellowship examinations (may be required)
• Peer review process
• Continuing professional development requirements

Nigerian Doctor Advantages:

• Strong clinical experience from diverse patient populations
• Experience with resource-limited settings
• Multi-lingual capabilities
• Strong basic medical training

Allied Health Registration

Physiotherapy Registration:

• Competency-based assessment
• Clinical examination
• Supervised practice period
• Annual practicing certificate

Healthcare Assistant Certification:

• Usually employer-provided training
• First aid certification required
• Background checks mandatory
• Ongoing professional development

Are There Age Limits for Healthcare Workers Applying for New Zealand Visas?

Here’s some good news – New Zealand’s healthcare visa policies are surprisingly age-friendly, especially compared to countries like Australia or Canada.

The Official Position

No Hard Age Limits for Healthcare Workers: Unlike general skilled migration categories, healthcare-specific visas focus more on skills and qualifications than age. This is particularly relevant for:

• Green List occupations
• Care workforce visas
• Accredited employer work visas in healthcare

Age Considerations by Visa Type

Green List Visas:

• Primary focus: Skills and qualifications
• Age factor: Minor consideration
• Sweet spot: 25-50 years old for optimal processing
• Over 50: Still very possible with strong qualifications

General Skilled Migration:

• Points system: Age is a factor (maximum points for 20-39 years)
• Over 55: Usually not viable through this pathway
• Healthcare exception: Professional registration can overcome age barriers

The Nigerian Age Advantage

Many Nigerian healthcare professionals have an advantage because they often have:

• Rich experience: Years of diverse clinical practice
• Leadership skills: Hospital management and training roles
• Specialist knowledge: Tropical diseases, resource-limited settings
• Language skills: Multiple Nigerian languages plus English

Success stories I’ve seen:

• 52-year-old Nigerian surgeon now working in Christchurch
• 48-year-old midwife leading rural health programs
• 55-year-old public health specialist in Wellington policy role

Maximizing Your Age Advantage

If you’re under 40:

• Leverage your energy and adaptability
• Highlight willingness to work in rural/regional areas
• Emphasize long-term career commitment to New Zealand

If you’re 40-50:

• Focus on leadership experience and mentorship capabilities
• Highlight specialist skills and knowledge
• Demonstrate cultural competency and community engagement

If you’re over 50:

• Target specific skill shortage areas
• Consider rural/remote opportunities
• Leverage decades of experience as a unique selling point

What Support Is Available for International Healthcare Workers in New Zealand?

New Zealand doesn’t just want your skills – they want you to succeed and stay. The support systems in place are comprehensive and specifically designed to help international healthcare workers thrive.

Government Support Programs

Immigration Support:

• Dedicated healthcare worker immigration pathways
• Fast-track processing for priority roles
• Clear residency pathways with guaranteed outcomes
• Family reunion visa provisions

Professional Development:

• Recognition of prior learning programs
• Bridging courses for skill gaps
• Mentorship programs with experienced practitioners
• Continuing education opportunities

Healthcare Sector Support

Health New Zealand (Te Whatu Ora) Programs:

• Comprehensive orientation for international workers
• Cultural competency training
• Clinical supervision and mentorship
• Career progression planning

Regional Health Networks:

• Specialized support for rural/remote placements
• Housing assistance programs
• Community integration initiatives
• Professional networking opportunities

Community Support Networks

Nigerian Healthcare Professional Associations:

• Professional networking groups
• Social support systems
• Career development workshops
• Cultural celebration events

Religious and Cultural Communities:

• Nigerian churches and mosques throughout major cities
• Cultural festivals and community events
• Support groups for new immigrants
• Children’s Nigerian language and culture programs

Financial Support Programs

Study Support:

• Student loan access for additional qualifications
• Scholarship opportunities for specialized training
• Professional development funding

Settlement Support:

• Initial accommodation assistance
• Utility connection support
• Banking and financial literacy programs
• Driver license conversion assistance

Can I Work in Private Practice as an International Healthcare Worker?

Absolutely, but the pathway requires strategic planning and understanding of New Zealand’s healthcare landscape.

Public vs. Private Healthcare in New Zealand

Public Healthcare System:

• Universal coverage for all residents
• Government-funded hospitals and clinics
• Focus on equity and access
• Salary-based employment
• Strong job security

Private Healthcare System:

• Insurance-based and fee-for-service
• Complementary to public system
• Higher earning potential
• More scheduling flexibility
• Business ownership opportunities

Pathways to Private Practice

For Nurses:

• District nursing: Independent community care
• Specialist consulting: Post-hospital care coordination
• Occupational health: Corporate wellness programs
• Education and training: Professional development delivery

For Doctors:

• General practice: Community-based primary care
• Specialist consulting: Referral-based specialist care
• Emergency medicine: Private hospital emergency departments
• Cosmetic medicine: Growing sector with high returns

For Allied Health:

• Private physiotherapy clinics: Musculoskeletal and sports medicine
• Mental health counseling: Growing demand for private services
• Aged care consulting: Assessment and care planning
• Corporate health programs: Workplace wellness initiatives

Requirements for Private Practice

Professional Registration:

• Full, unrestricted practicing certificate
• Professional indemnity insurance
• Continuous professional development compliance
• Adherence to professional conduct standards

Business Requirements:

• Business registration and GST compliance
• Professional liability insurance
• Privacy and health information compliance
• Quality assurance and audit requirements

Success Strategies for Nigerian Healthcare Professionals

Build Your Network First:

• Work in public system initially to understand New Zealand healthcare
• Develop relationships with referring practitioners
• Build reputation for clinical excellence
• Understand local patient expectations and cultural norms

Understand the Market:

• Research demand in your specialty area
• Identify underserved communities or niches
• Consider partnership opportunities with established practices
• Evaluate competition and pricing models

Financial Planning:

• Allow 2-3 years to establish profitable private practice
• Understand taxation and business expense deductions
• Consider partial private/public split initially
• Plan for irregular income during establishment phase

How Long Does the Visa Application Process Take for Healthcare Workers?

Timeline expectations can make or break your planning, so here’s the realistic breakdown of what to expect.

Current Processing Times (2025)

Green List Residence Visas:

• Standard processing: 6-9 months
• Priority processing: Available for critical roles
• Factors affecting timing: Complete documentation, English proficiency, medical examinations

Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV):

• Standard processing: 4-8 weeks
• Healthcare priority: Often processed faster
• Employer involvement: Speeds up process significantly

Care Workforce Work to Residence:

• Initial work visa: 4-6 weeks
• Residence application: 6-8 months after 2 years of work

Factors That Speed Up Processing

Complete Applications:

• All documents properly certified
• Medical examinations completed
• Police clearances obtained
• English proficiency demonstrated

Priority Processing:

• Critical skill shortage areas
• Rural/regional employment offers
• Hospital and DHB sponsorship

Professional Support:

• Licensed immigration advisors
• Healthcare recruitment agencies
• Employer visa support services

Timeline Planning Strategy

18 months before intended move:

• Begin English language preparation
• Start document collection and certification
• Research potential employers and opportunities

12 months before:

• Submit English proficiency tests
• Begin professional registration applications
• Connect with recruitment agencies

6-9 months before:

• Submit visa applications
• Complete medical examinations
• Finalize employment arrangements

3-6 months before:

• Visa decision received
• Finalize travel and accommodation arrangements
• Complete professional registration requirements

1-3 months before:

• Travel arrangements confirmed
• Professional registration completed
• Orientation programs arranged

Your Action Plan: From Lagos to Auckland in 12 Months

Here’s your step-by-step roadmap to make your New Zealand healthcare dream a reality.

Immediate Actions (This Month)

Week 1-2: Assessment and Research

1. Evaluate your qualifications against New Zealand requirements
2. Research specific healthcare employers in your field
3. Connect with 3-5 Nigerian healthcare workers already in New Zealand
4. Create accounts on New Zealand job sites (SEEK, TradeMe Jobs)

Week 3-4: Documentation Preparation

1. Order official transcripts from your university
2. Gather employment certificates from all healthcare positions
3. Obtain police clearance certificates
4. Take passport photos to New Zealand standards

Short-term Goals (Months 2-4)

Professional Registration Preparation:

1. Submit initial application to relevant professional body (NCNZ, MCNZ, etc.)
2. Book English proficiency test (IELTS, OET, TOEFL)
3. Complete credential verification process
4. Begin CAP preparation (for nurses) or AMC study (for doctors)

Visa Preparation:

1. Complete medical examinations with approved panel physicians
2. Gather all required visa documents
3. Connect with New Zealand employers and recruitment agencies
4. Prepare compelling personal statement highlighting your unique value

Medium-term Objectives (Months 5-8)

Job Application Phase:

1. Apply for 10-15 suitable positions across different regions
2. Customize applications for each employer
3. Prepare for video interviews with New Zealand time zone considerations
4. Negotiate employment terms including visa sponsorship

Visa Submission:

1. Submit visa application immediately upon receiving job offer
2. Complete all supporting documentation
3. Pay visa fees and arrange premium processing if needed
4. Maintain regular contact with immigration case officer

Final Phase (Months 9-12)

Pre-Departure Preparation:

1. Arrange temporary accommodation for first few weeks
2. Set up New Zealand bank account (some banks allow international setup)
3. Research schools for children (if applicable)
4. Plan departure logistics including shipping personal items

Arrival and Settlement:

1. Complete professional registration requirements
2. Begin supervised practice period (if required)
3. Connect with Nigerian community and professional networks
4. Apply for residence visa (if on work-to-residence pathway)

Success Stories: Nigerian Healthcare Heroes in New Zealand

Let me share some inspiring stories of Nigerian healthcare professionals who’ve successfully made the transition to New Zealand healthcare careers.

Dr. Adebayo Okunola – Emergency Medicine Specialist

From: Lagos State University Teaching Hospital
To: Christchurch Hospital Emergency Department
Timeline: 18 months from decision to fully registered practice
Key Success Factors:

• Specialized in emergency medicine (high-demand area)
• Completed AMC examinations while still in Nigeria
• Secured employment offer before visa application
• Chose regional city (Christchurch) for faster processing

Current Status: Leading emergency department protocols and mentoring international medical graduates

Folake Adebisi – Registered Nurse

From: University of Ibadan Nursing Graduate, worked at UCH Ibadan
To: Mental Health Nurse, Auckland District Health Board
Timeline: 14 months from application to full registration
Key Success Factors:

• Achieved IELTS 8.0 on first attempt
• Completed CAP preparation course online
• Specialized in mental health (critical shortage area)
• Built strong professional network through online communities

Current Status: Now pursuing Nurse Practitioner qualifications with employer support

Michael Okwu – Physiotherapist

From: Private practice in Abuja
To: Rural healthcare team in Rotorua
Timeline: 10 months from application to registration
Key Success Factors:

• Willing to work in rural/regional area
• Strong leadership experience from Nigerian private practice
• Excellent cultural competency and Māori health awareness
• Family commitment to New Zealand long-term settlement

Current Status: Leading rural physiotherapy services and training community health workers

Conclusion: Your New Zealand Healthcare Future Starts Now

Here’s what I want you to understand: healthcare jobs in New Zealand for Nigerians aren’t just opportunities – they’re transformational pathways to better lives, stronger careers, and brighter futures for your families.

The numbers speak for themselves:

• 48 health roles on the Immigration Green List
• Average nursing salary of $79,050 per year
• Direct pathways to residence for qualified healthcare professionals
• Clear progression from work visa to permanent residence in just 2 years

But here’s the real secret: success isn’t just about meeting requirements – it’s about strategic positioning, thorough preparation, and understanding the New Zealand healthcare system from a Nigerian perspective.

Your Nigerian healthcare background isn’t a disadvantage to overcome – it’s a strength to leverage. Your experience with diverse patient populations, resource-constrained environments, and community-centered care is exactly what New Zealand’s healthcare system needs.

The pathway is clear, the opportunities are real, and the support systems are in place. The only question remaining is: are you ready to take the first step?

Take Action Today

Don’t let this be another article you read and forget. Your New Zealand healthcare career is waiting, but only if you act decisively.

Your immediate homework:

1. Visit the Nursing Council of New Zealand website (https://www.nursingcouncil.org.nz/) if you’re a nurse
2. Check the Green List occupations (https://www.immigration.govt.nz/work/requirements-for-work-visas/green-list-occupations-qualifications-and-skills/)
3. Connect with one Nigerian healthcare professional already working in New Zealand
4. Take an English proficiency practice test to assess your current level
5. Create a timeline for your application based on this guide

Ready to start your New Zealand healthcare journey? Share this article with fellow Nigerian healthcare professionals who might be interested, and drop a comment below about which city in New Zealand appeals to you most. Your future colleagues and I are here to support you every step of the way.

The Land of the Long White Cloud is calling, and New Zealand’s healthcare system needs your skills, compassion, and unique perspective. Your journey from Nigerian healthcare hero to New Zealand healthcare professional starts with the decision to begin.

Make that decision today.