Overview: The GP Registration Process in New Zealand

New Zealand continues to be one of the most attractive destinations for UK trained GPs, offering an excellent work-life balance, high demand for doctors, and a straightforward registration process.

If you’re considering making the move, one of the most common questions is: how long does it actually take?

The good news is that the process is relatively efficient, and in many cases, GPs can relocate within 3-6 months when steps are managed in parallel.

For UK doctors, the process is typically streamlined, and most applicants are not required to sit additional exams, provided they meet the eligibility criteria.

There are two main pathways for provisional general registration:

Competent Authority Pathway

The Medical Council recognises the Irish Medical Council and the UK’s General Medical Council as competent authorities. This is the most commonly used pathway for medical registration for GPs in the UK to apply. To apply you must hold a primary medical degree from a university medical school in the UK or Ireland, have completed your internship in the UK or Ireland and meet the fitness to practice requirements.

Comparable Health Pathway

You can apply for this pathway if you have a primary medical degree from a university medical school listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools (see here); have worked in a comparable health system(s) for a minimum of 30 hours per week for at least 33 of the last 48 months; have proposed employment in New Zealand in the same or similar area of medicine, at a similar level of responsibility to the work you have done in the last 48 months, and hold a full or general registration in at least one comparable health system which contributes to this time in clinical practice.

If English is not your first language you may first need to sit and pass International English Language tests. Transitional Medical will be able to guide based on your individual circumstances.

The Timeline: How Long Does It Take?

While individual timelines vary, these stages can often overlap, which significantly reduces the total time.

• Primary Source Verification (EPIC / MyIntealth)
• MCNZ Application & Assessment
• Visa Processing

Visual Timeline

Primary Source Verification

Before applying for registration, your qualifications must be verified through EPIC/MyIntealth.

MCNZ Application

Once verification is underway, you can submit your application to MCNZ. Processing typically takes 4-6  weeks, depending on,  completeness of documentation and whether additional information is requested.

Once your medical registration is approved in principal, successful, you’ll receive an invitation to attend a registration interview in New Zealand to finalise your application.

Visa Application

After receiving approval in principal, you can apply for your visa.  Most GPs apply for an Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV).

Arrival & Registration Interview

Once you arrive in New Zealand, you’ll attend a registration interview to:

• Confirm your documentation
• Finalise registration
• Apply for your practising certificate

After this, you are officially able to begin work.

Conclusion

Relocating to New Zealand as a GP is a structured and achievable process, particularly for UK-trained doctors.

If you’re considering the move and want tailored guidance on your eligibility, timeline, or job opportunities, working with a specialist medical recruitment team can make the process significantly smoother.

Further Reading

Your guide to shipping your belongings to NZ 

What are the costs involved in relocating to NZ? 

Corporate Vs Independent GP Clinics: What you should know

How to Ship Your Belongings to NZ

So, you’re thinking about moving to New Zealand. Perhaps you’ve already secured a job offer from one of our friendly GP clinics. Or maybe you’re still in the early stages of researching and planning your move down under.

Whatever stage you’re at, this guide offers impartial advice on shipping to New Zealand and preparing for life as a local GP.

Shipping your belongings overseas isn’t a simple task. It takes careful planning—and often professional support. But before you get quotes or book containers, it’s important to start with the basics: deciding what to bring with you.

How to Decide What to Bring When Moving to New Zealand

Fitting your life into a shipping container can be challenging, especially if you’ve lived in one place for a long time. While it can be difficult to part with sentimental items, shipping everything can quickly become expensive.

Start by asking yourself:

• Does the cost of shipping outweigh the item’s value?

• Is it irreplaceable or particularly meaningful?

• Would having familiar belongings help you or your children settle more easily?

Next, consider your new home. Will you be downsizing? New Zealand homes often differ from UK properties in layout and storage, and many rentals already include large appliances or basic furniture.

Electrical Items

Although New Zealand uses the same voltage as the UK, the maximum current is only 10 amps (compared with the UK’s 13 amps). This means some appliances may not work safely.

Check each item carefully—particularly heat-generating appliances such as kettles, toasters, hairdryers, and lamps. This information can usually be found on the item label or the manufacturer’s website.

What You Can’t Ship to New Zealand

New Zealand has strict biosecurity laws designed to protect its unique ecosystem. Some items are prohibited outright, while others require inspection, treatment, or additional documentation.

Strictly Prohibited Items

• Weapons and firearms

• Most food items

• Items made from animal by-products (e.g. coral, snakeskin, whalebone, shells, fur)

• Medicines containing musk, horn, or bone

Items That May Require Quarantine or Extra Documentation

• Herbs and spices

• Taxidermied animals

• Bamboo, cane, rattan, basketry, and mats

• Unprocessed wool or animal hair

• Dried flowers or bulbs

• Saddles and riding equipment

• Wooden artefacts (e.g. carvings, shields, masks)

• Camping equipment

• Vacuum cleaners

You should always check the status of individual items on the New Zealand Customs Service  before shipping.

Bringing Restricted Items: What You Need to Do

If you plan to bring any restricted or controlled items, you must declare them on your arrival documentation.

While not all shipments are inspected, failing to declare items can result in:

• Significant fines

• Charges for inspection, cleaning, or treatment

• Disposal or export of items at your expense

Customs inspections are charged by the hour, so thorough cleaning and clear labelling can help keep costs down.

How to Pack Your Belongings for Shipping to New Zealand

Controlled Items

As part of the packing process, it’s important to clean anything that’s come in contact with freshwater or soil. For example, you’ll need to clean items like camping equipment, fishing supplies, hiking shoes, and watersport accessories like dive suits or life vests.

After you’ve cleaned these items, make sure to pack them in the same box and clearly label what’s in the box. Customs offers charge by the hour, so anything you can do to speed up their work will reduce the overall costs if your container is inspected.

Clothes

Remember that New Zealand’s seasons are the opposite of the UK’s. Pack clothing for the current season in New Zealand last so it’s easy to access when you arrive.

Many people also pack a suitcase or two to take on the plane, giving them clothes to wear while their container clears customs.

Electrical Goods

As mentioned earlier, appliances that require more than 10 amps should not be shipped. Heat-producing items are the most common issue, so double-check specifications before including them in your shipment.

Shipping a Car to New Zealand from the UK

Shipping your car may sound appealing, but most professional relocation companies advise against it.

Importing a vehicle into New Zealand is expensive, complex, and heavily regulated. Vehicles must meet strict standards, particularly around emissions, and many UK cars require costly modifications to comply.

Some employers may offer relocation assistance, but even then, buying a car locally is often simpler and more cost-effective. If you’d like to explore the requirements further, you can find detailed guidance on the NZ Transport Agency website.

Documents You’ll Need Before Moving to New Zealand

Once you’ve decided what to ship and contacted a moving company, you’ll need to prepare the required documentation. Most people will need:

• A copy of their passport and visa

• A combined customs and quarantine declaration form

• A numbered inventory or packing list

• A personal effects supplementary declaration (for items posing a biosecurity risk)

• Valid treatment certificates for fumigated, heat-treated, or cleaned goods

Your shipping company can advise on any additional forms you may need.

How to Ship Your Belongings to New Zealand

When it comes to shipping your items, you have a few options depending on how much stuff you plan on bringing with you.

Sole use containers. Best for people looking to ship most of their belongings, sole use containers are one of the cheapest and quickest methods. You can use either a 20ft container, which is generally large enough to fit a 2- 3 bedroom house. Or, a 40ft container, which can hold a 3- 4 bedroom house. From door-to-door, sole use containers take eight to ten weeks to arrive in New Zealand.

Groupage. If you only plan on bringing a small amount of items (i.e. less than a 2-3 bedroom house), groupage consignment might be a good option as your stuff is grouped with other items which will reduce the overall cost. However, this method normally takes a bit longer at about 10-14 weeks.

Cost of Moving Belongings to New Zealand

Costs vary depending on the volume of goods, container type, and final destination. You’ll also need to factor in:

• Customs clearance and inspection fees

• Insurance

• Storage (if required)

Most families typically pay between £4,000  – £7,000, but it’s always worth shopping around to find the best service and value.

Transition Medical — Helping GPs Make the Move Down Under

Here at  Transition Medical we specialise in helping UK GPs relocate to New Zealand. From connecting you with attractive GP vacancies to advising on moving your family pet or finding schools for your children, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Take a look at our other related blogs for more guidance on making your move to New Zealand as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Further Reading

• What is Life Like for a GP in New Zealand. We speak to one of our GPs working in Auckland.
• Your New Zealand GP Visa Questions Answered
• Moving Your Family Pet to Australia or New Zealand from the UK

GP Salary New Zealand

If you’re thinking about working as a GP in New Zealand, then you are likely to be attracted by a beautiful country offering beaches, nature, outdoor adventures plus national parks for walking and biking.

You may also be thinking about the work – life balance which GPs in New Zealand enjoy and want to find out more about what life is like. One of the questions we’re often asked, is what the salary is for GPs in New Zealand. We will address these and answer your questions below.

A full time working week in New Zealand is 40 hours per week, over 5 days (10 sessions). In reality however, most GPs don’t work full time. The majority of the contracts we see are 32 hours per week which allows for a day off in the week although there is generally scope to work up to 10 sessions if you wish. The pace of work is also more relaxed with standard appointment times of 15 minutes. You can work fewer hours, however on a temporary work visa, the minimum number of hours required is 30 per week.

GP salaries in New Zealand can be stated as an hourly rate or an annual salary. GP income is around $220K – $250K for a full time position of 40 hours per week. This would be pro-rata for less than 10 sessions.

The current average GP Salary in New Zealand is $149.494 NZD per hour.

Contracts are employment agreements which also include paid annual leave and sick leave plus other benefits such as paid medical indemnity insurance, registration fees and sometimes relocation assistance.

How Do NZ Salaries Compare with the UK?

How your NZ GP income compares will depend on the type of practise in the UK. Salaried GPs may find their income slightly more or at least comparable. If however you are in a successful GP Partnership or busy doing Locum or Out of hours shifts, you may find income to be lower.

Money however, is not everything, and what attracts GPs to New Zealand is the lifestyle. It offers a relaxed pace of life, amazing (free!) outdoor and indoor activities for the family, and a well run healthcare system where GPs are looked after.

We have placed many doctors in New Zealand who find the people very friendly and life much more relaxed. If you would like to find out more about working in New Zealand please do get in touch with our team!

Further Reading

GP Recruitment How we can support a move to NZ

What is life like for GPs in New Zealand

New Zealand offers a truly unique opportunity to balance your GP career with an incredible lifestyle. Here are 7 reasons you should choose to relocate

Are you a GP considering a move to New Zealand?

New Zealand Medical Council  recognises comparable training for 29 countries currently meaning you can apply for registration under their comparable health system pathway making it easier than ever to live and work in Aotearoa.

What Is the Comparable Health System Pathway?

These 29 countries are seen as having health systems comparable to New Zealand’s, which means  eligible GPs can apply for provisional general registration without re-training.

To qualify, you generally need:

• An acceptable medical degree

• At least 33 months’ recent practice in a comparable health system

• Current full or general registration in your home country

• A job offer in New Zealand (with supervision included)

From there, you’ll work under supervision before progressing to a full general scope of practice.

How We Support You

We specialise in helping GPs from around the world secure their dream roles in New Zealand and Australia. Thanks to our close relationships with practices, we can connect you directly with opportunities that fit your career goals and lifestyle. Our team has expert knowledge of visa requirements and medical registration processes, ensuring your move is smooth and stress-free. Most importantly, we take the time to understand your personal and professional preferences—so we place you in the right job, in the right location, to match your ambitions.

Moving countries is a big step and thats where we come in.  We will provide

• Registration support: guiding you through MCNZ applications and document verification

• GP job matching: connecting you with clinics and practices across NZ

• Visa & relocation assistance: helping with immigration paperwork and settling your family into life in New Zealand

Why New Zealand?

1. High Demand and Great Opportunities

New Zealand has a consistent shortage of General Practitioners, especially in regional and community-based practices. This means plenty of job security, competitive salaries, and choice of locations.

2. Work-Life Balance

GPs typically work fewer hours than in many other countries, leaving you more time for family, travel, or simply enjoying the outdoors.

3. Stunning Lifestyle

Whether you love beaches, mountains, vineyards, or vibrant cities, New Zealand has it all within easy reach. Many GPs say the lifestyle is the biggest drawcard—safe communities, friendly people, and space to breathe.

4. Smooth Registration Pathway

If you’re from a comparable health system country (like the Netherlands, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Luxembourg, Finland, or Israel), you can apply through the Comparable Health System pathway. This makes the process quicker and more straightforward than many other international destinations.

5. Family-Friendly Environment

New Zealand is one of the safest and most welcoming countries in the world, with excellent schools and healthcare. It’s a fantastic place to raise a family.

6. Immigration Support

As a GP, you’re on New Zealand’s skill shortage list, which makes the visa process easier—and often faster—for you and your family.

New Zealand offers a strong demand for GPs, competitive salaries, and a lifestyle second to none. From vibrant cities to coastal towns, you can choose the community that fits your life.

We are supporting GPs from the Netherlands, Luxembourg, Denmark, Finland, Sweden, Israel, or Norway, so get in touch to chat about how we can also help you!

Read More

Medical Registration Process for NZ

New Countries Added to the Comparable Health Systems List – And We’re Here to Help

If you’re a doctor working in Chile, Luxembourg, or Croatia, your pathway to practising medicine in New Zealand just became more accessible.

The Medical Council of New Zealand (MCNZ) has officially added these countries to its list of comparable health systems, joining recent additions Japan and South Korea. This means your clinical experience can now count toward applying for provisional general registration through the Comparable Health System (CHS) pathway.

MCNZ now recognises 29 countries as having health systems comparable to New Zealand’s. If you’ve been practising in any of these countries and meet the eligibility criteria, you could be only a few steps away from joining New Zealand’s healthcare workforce.

How can we Help?

As a recruitment company dedicated to placing skilled IMGs in New Zealand general practice roles, we provide:

• Access to GP roles across the country
• Step-by-step guidance through the registration process
• Support with primary source verification (EPIC)
• Help coordinating supervision requirements with your future employer

Ready to Make the Move?

If you’re a doctor with recent experience in Chile, Luxembourg, Croatia — or any of the 29 approved comparable health systems — now is the time to explore your next career chapter in New Zealand. Our experienced team is ready to walk beside you from registration to relocation.

How to Register with the Medical Council of New Zealand

If you’re looking to work as a doctor in New Zealand, the first essential step is to become registered with the Medical Council of New Zealand (MCNZ). With over 20,000 doctors currently practising in the country—and around 9,000 of them coming from overseas—New Zealand is a popular destination for internationally trained medical professionals.

While the registration process is generally straightforward, it does involve a few nuances that overseas doctors should be aware of. That’s where we come in. Our team can guide you through each step, making the process as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Registration Pathways for Overseas Doctors

The MCNZ uses different registration pathways to assess overseas applications. The route you take will depend on your qualifications, experience, and intentions for working in New Zealand.

Each pathway falls under a specific scope of practice. Understanding which one applies to you is key—and we’re here to help you figure that out.

Key Scopes of Practice:

• General Scope
  Typically for doctors in non-specialist roles such as Resident Medical Officers (RMOs) or those in vocational training programs.

• Vocational Scope
  This is for fully trained specialists and allows you to practise independently in your specialty in New Zealand.

• Special Purpose Scope
  Designed for doctors intending to work in New Zealand temporarily—for example, to gain further training, participate in research, or provide assistance during emergencies.

Regardless of your chosen pathway, you must meet the MCNZ’s fitness for registration requirements, which include demonstrating proficiency in English. For most non-specialist pathways, you’ll also need a confirmed job offer in New Zealand before applying for registration and receiving your practising certificate.

MCNZ typically processes registration applications within 20 working days.

How We Can Help

If you’re thinking about relocating to New Zealand to advance your medical career, we’re here to support you at every stage of the journey.

Our services include:

• Assessing your eligibility and guiding you through the registration process

• Securing job opportunities tailored to your preferences

• Preparing your CV and submitting it to potential employers

• Managing reference checks and providing details about your prospective practice

• Supporting you with interview preparation and contract negotiations

• Assisting with your work visa or permit application

To hear directly from a doctor we’ve helped, check out this video from Dr. Chamal or browse our  Client Testimonials

Read More

Fast-Track GP Specialist Pathway – NZ

The Growing Demand for GPs and Radiologists in NZ

Te Kaunihera Rata o Aotearoa, The Medical Council of New Zealand has this announced a GP new fast-track registration which was launched in November 2024 . The new pathway should streamline the registration process, enabling doctors from overseas to join New Zealand’s healthcare system faster and more efficiently.

What will this mean for IMGs?

This is a fantastic opportunity, if you have approved specialist qualifications from UK, Ireland or Australia and considering a move to work in NZ. You can apply to get specialist registration in fields such as general practice, psychiatry, dermatology, emergency medicine, anaesthesia, internal medicine, and anatomical pathology then this new pathway will make it a lot easier and quicker (within 20 days!)

Supporting Work-force needs

The new fast track registration hopes to enable more IMGs to come and work in NZ and address the increasing demand for skilled healthcare professionals. This clever approach still recognises the need to maintain high standards of care, therefore doctors eligible for this registration will have their applications assessed against a set of core requirements to ensure they are well qualified and prepared without needing advice from the specialist medical colleges.

Conclusion

A faster more straightforward pathway makes the transition to practicing in the NZ even more enticing. NZ  is consistently voted one best places to live in the world; whether its the outdoor lifestyle, the culture or more relaxed pace of life your after, get in touch and see how we can help you make your next move.

From the blog:

What do GPs earn in NZ

The Growing Demand for GPs and Radiologists in NZ

Healthcare Shortages: A Pressing Concern

New Zealand has long been recognised for its breathtaking landscapes, excellent quality of life, and friendly communities. However, beyond the scenic allure, the country’s healthcare system is currently grappling with an urgent demand for skilled professionals, particularly General Practitioners (GPs) and Radiologists. This demand is fuelled by several key factors, including an ageing population, healthcare staff shortages, and evolving healthcare needs.

For healthcare professionals in looking for new opportunities and a fresh start, New Zealand presents a compelling option.  As medical imaging plays an increasingly critical role in modern healthcare, the demand for Radiologists has skyrocketed. However, with a limited number of trained specialists in the field, radiology wait times in certain regions have become a significant issue, impacting patient care and diagnosis timelines.

Ageing Population and Rising Healthcare Demands

According to Statistics New Zealand, 1 in every 6 people in New Zealand were in these older age groups. In 2028, 1 in 5 people in the population will be 65+ years.  This ageing demographic requires more medical services, especially in primary care and diagnostic fields like radiology, leading to higher demand for GPs and Radiologists who can manage complex health issues, chronic diseases, and provide timely diagnoses.

As these demands continue to rise, the New Zealand government has prioritised healthcare, making it a favourable environment for international medical professionals looking to make a meaningful difference in their careers.

Attracting Skilled Professionals

Recognising the urgency of the situation, New Zealand has been actively recruiting skilled medical professionals from abroad, especially from countries like the UK where the training standards are comparable. To attract talent, the government has introduced several incentives:

• Streamlined immigration pathways: Doctors and medical professionals are on skilled migrant lists, which allows for fast-tracked visa processing and a smoother transition.
• Higher salaries for GPs and Radiologists and support for relocation, more balanced work-life balance, flexible working conditions, and access to stunning nature, make it highly attractive.

Doctor Market Trends

With healthcare systems around the world facing pressures, New Zealand’s targeted approach to attracting international talent has created a prime opportunity for UK GPs and Radiologists seeking change.

• Growing number of vacancies: More positions are being created and the opportunity for long-term, stable employment is strong.
• Focus on innovation: New Zealand’s healthcare system is investing in modernising medical technology, particularly in radiology, where AI and advanced imaging techniques are being embraced.
• Rural healthcare focus: The government is offering attractive packages and incentives for doctors willing to practice in more remote areas.

For healthcare professionals tired of the increasing pressures of the NHS, New Zealand offers a refreshing balance of rewarding work and a better quality of life.

How Transition Medical is Leading the Way

We recognise relocating for work is a significant decision, and we pride ourselves on making that transition as smooth and stress-free as possible. Our team has extensive experience in connecting UK GPs and Radiologists with GP opportunities or Radiology jobs in New Zealand’s healthcare system, offering:

Personalised recruitment services: We take the time to understand your unique needs and career goals, ensuring the right match with healthcare providers in New Zealand.

End-to-end support: From visa applications and medical registration to finding the perfect role, we provide comprehensive support every step of the way.

Trusted network: Following our visit earlier this year visiting the GP practices to continue to build our relationships, we are able to give you access to some of the best opportunities in the country.

If you’re ready for a change and want to explore new horizons, Transition Medical is here to help guide you through the process with expert advice and dedicated support.

Reach out to Transition Medical today and take the first step toward an exciting new chapter in your medical career!