Top Tips for GPs Relocating to New Zealand

Here at Transition Medical we get asked many questions from GPs new to their New Zealand GP job search. As one of the leading UK GP recruitment agencies we have compiled a brief checklist of things you’ll need to have (and think about)!

1. Primary Medical Degree from a recognised university – MBBS, MB ChB, MD, MB BCh, BM etc

3. Language Skills – All overseas trained GPs are required to demonstrate their English competency. This is fairly straightforward for overseas GPs. It can be proven if English is your primary language, you completed your primary medical degree from a recognised English-speaking country (UK, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Ireland, South Africa or USA).

Another way of meeting this requirement is to have worked continuously as a registered medical practitioner where English was the first and primary language for a minimum of 2 years and can provide the names of two referees who can attest to your English language ability.

Otherwise you would need to sit an appropriate English language test eg IELTS or OET.

4. Medical Registration – Full, current and unconditional registration from your current authority (i.e. GMC) and unconditional registration from any previous registering authority. You will need a Certificate of Good Standing from each authority you have been registered over the last 5 years.

5. You must either hold a Primary Medical degree and have completed your internship from a Competent Authority such as the UK or Ireland or hold recent experience from a Comparable health system.

6. A Job Offer – To work as a GP in New Zealand and be able to secure medical registration and a suitable employment visa you must secure a job offer. The first step of this process is to speak to one of our medical recruitment specialists to find you a great GP job in Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch or a fantastic coastal town or somewhere more rural. Whether you want city, beach or country life, we can find you what you’re looking for!

7. Timescales – The medical recruitment and visa process for New Zealand is relatively straightforward and will take approximately 3 months. We would recommend getting in touch around 6 months prior to you wishing to relocate.

8. Age doesn’t matter – GP practices are looking for good all-round GPs, so whether you are newly qualified, mid-way through your career or reaching retirement there will be a GP vacancy available for you.

9. COVID – We have to mention it. Although the New Zealand border is currently closed to most, GPs are still able to apply for an exemption to cross the border. We have had many doctors successfully relocate during this time. Managed isolation (MIQ) is required however we will help you navigate this process.

10. Finally – When considering working as a GP in New Zealand, it may seem a daunting process and you’ll be weighing up the pros and cons of relocating. Many GPs have already made the move and find the working conditions and lifestyle to be far superior than the UK. Discover what our GPs have to say and why we’re one of the Best Doctor Recruitment Agencies

If you are considering a move or just want to chat through options we have a dedicated team who will guide you through every step of the whole process. Visit our latest vacancies or contact us directly here.