A practical breakdown of the main fees and expenses involved

Relocating to New Zealand  is a promising professional opportunity, offering an excellent lifestyle, competitive pay and brilliant work-life balance. However, like any international move, it does involve upfront costs.

Whether you are newly qualified or an experienced overseas practitioner, understanding these costs early will help you plan realistically and relocate with confidence.

Medical Registration & Credential Verification

To practise in New Zealand, you must be registered with the Medical Council of New Zealand (MCNZ). UK-trained GPs typically apply under the Competent Authority Pathway, which is a well-established route. Hospital Consultant will follow Provisional Vocational route.

Key costs include: 

• MyIntealth/EPIC  Primary Source Verification

Verification of medical qualifications and certificates – £200 

• MCNZ Registration Application Fee 

(Assessment and processing of your application) 

Competent Authority Pathway – £252 

Comparable Authority Pathway – £790 

• Hospital Consultant VOC 3 Pathway Costs 

Locum Tenens Scope – £315 

Provisional Vocational Scope – £1,895 

• MCNZ Practising Certificate (APC)
  Issued once registration is approved

          Approx £400 (annual) 

Exact fees vary depending on pathway and timing of issuance. 

Visa Application Fees – Accredited Employer Work Visa

The most popular route is via the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV), sponsored by an approved employer.

Typical costs include:

• AEWV Application Fee
  Approx £650 per main applicant
  (Additional fees apply for partners and dependent children)

• Straight to Residence Fee – £2,713 per family.

Medical and Character Requirements

To meet visa and registration requirements, you should budget for:

• Immigration medical examination
  Typically includes chest X-ray and blood tests
  Approx £350 per person, depending on clinic and age

• Police certificates
  Required from each country you’ve lived in for 12+ months
  Approx £50–£100 per country

Relocation & Travel Costs

Beyond visa and registration fees, it’s important to consider the practical costs of moving to New Zealand, including:

• One-way flights for you (and family, if applicable)

• Temporary accommodation on arrival

• Shipping or excess baggage for personal belongings

• Initial living expenses such as rental bonds (typically 4 weeks’ rent), setting up utilities, and transport

Costs will vary depending on your destination, with Auckland and Wellington generally more expensive than regional locations.

Rough Budget Estimate (Single application)

Conclusion

Relocating to New Zealand does involve upfront investment, but for many doctors these costs are quickly outweighed by strong earning potential, work-life balance, and long-term career opportunities.

It’s also worth noting that these expenses are spread across the months while registration and visa processing are underway, making them easier to budget for gradually.

With the right planning and guidance, the transition to practising in New Zealand can be smooth, transparent, and highly rewarding.

Note: Costs are estimates based on current fees and exchange rates and may vary slightly.

Further Reading

How UK and Irish Consultants can register in NZ

Why you should work in NZ as a GP

What do GPs Earn in NZ in 2026?