New Zealand's 2025 Nursing Registration Pathway for International Nurses

Author: Jincemon Joy (Migration Consultant)

The 2025 revised nursing registration process in New Zealand offers significant opportunities for internationally trained nurses to build successful careers in one of the world's most healthcare-demanding countries. Nurses are recognized as critical professionals under New Zealand's Green List, offering a chance for permanent residence upon registration with the Nursing Council of New Zealand (NCNZ).

Key Features of the 2025 New Zealand Nursing Registration Process:

1. Streamlined Registration Process: The process now takes approximately 6 to 9 months for internationally trained nurses to secure registration and permanent residency through a Straight to Residence visa.

2. CGFNS Verification: Nurses must first verify their credentials with the Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools (CGFNS), providing essential documents like proof of nursing registration, English proficiency (IELTS/OET), and work experience.

3. NCNZ Application: After CGFNS approval, nurses apply to the NCNZ with a NZ$485 fee, where their application will be evaluated based on key registration standards.

4. Cultural Competence: Nurses are required to complete online courses on culturally safe nursing practices: NgāPaerewaTeTiriti Module 1 and Foundations in Cultural Competence.

5. ICHC & Competence Assessment: Nurses undergo an International Criminal History Check (ICHC) and must pass both a theoretical exam and Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE).

6. Theoretical Exam: In this step, candidates are required to take an online theoretical exam, hosted globally at Pearson VUE-accredited centers. The exam consists of two parts:
   Part A, focusing on Medication Safety
   Part B, assessing Nursing Knowledge
7. OSCE Exam:
   The final step is the Objective Structured Clinical Exam (OSCE). Prior to the examination, candidates attend a two-day event that includes both OSCE orientation and preparation in Christchurch, New Zealand. This exam must also be taken in-person in New Zealand, and candidates need a New Zealand Visitor Visa to attend. Should a candidate fail the OSCE, they may retake it.
8. Costs for International Nurses: The nursing registration process requires various fees at different stages:

• CGFNS verification: USD 300
• Nursing Council application and processing: NZ$485
• International Criminal History Check: NZ$169
• Theoretical Exam: NZ$140
• Re-sit fees for Medication Safety: NZ$32
• Re-sit fees for Nursing Knowledge: NZ$108
• OSCE Orientation and Preparation: NZ$500
• OSCE Clinical Examination: NZ$3,000
• OSCE Clinical Examination Re-sit: NZ$3,000

Timeframe:

The entire process typically takes 5 to 7 months, with successful document submission and exam completion ensuring a smooth and quick registration experience.