As New Zealand grows closer to achieving a 90% vaccination rate (one of the highest in the world!), the future is starting to look more certain and many of us are looking at our next steps. With many predicting there will be a mass movement of people (including healthcare workers) once the borders open, we’re likely to see more opportunities than ever for doctors and Healthcare professionals looking to come into the country, meaning this is a fantastic time to consider relocating.
So, what do you need to know about moving to New Zealand right now?
- The managed isolation period for international arrivals has recently been reduced from 14 days to 7 days (except those from very high risk countries, who remain at 14 days).
- The government has set aside 300 priority isolation and quarantine spots (starting end of November).
- There is a 3-step plan for easing border restrictions over the next few months as follows:
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- Opening to fully vaccinated New Zealand citizens and other eligible travellers from Australia — from 11:59 pm on 16 January 2022
- Opening to fully vaccinated New Zealand citizens and other eligible travellers from all but very high-risk countries — from 11:59pm on Sunday 13 February 2022
- Opening to fully vaccinated foreign nationals — from 30 April 2022 onwards
- New Zealand’s immigration process is a lot quicker and easier than its counterpart across the Tasman, with the whole process taking only six months compared to over a year just to get your visa sorted for Australia!
- New Zealand’s Immigration Department has recently announced the introduction of a new fast track to residency for doctors and healthcare professionals who are currently in the country or arriving before 31 July 2022. Find out more here: https://www.immigration.govt.nz/new-zealand-visas/already-have-a-visa/one-off-residence-visa
- New Zealand offers a better work/life balance in the current climate – doctors here see an average of 24 patients a day in addition to having dedicated admin time, whereas UK doctors will see 40+ patients on any given day.
Of course, with the pandemic causing many people to re-evaluate what’s important to them, the Kiwi lifestyle is another major draw for those looking to move – offering fantastic outdoor opportunities and stunning scenery that you can’t find anywhere else. (To learn more about the great places you can live and work in, download our free location guide and watch our short video on Advice about Relocating to NZ.)
Whether you are looking for a position as an RMO, Registrar, MOSS, Specialist, GP, Anaesthetic Technician, MIT or any of the vast roles available – New Zealand has the right position for you. We assist you to find locum opportunities, permanent doctor jobs and Allied Health roles as well as fixed-term placements.
If you’ve been thinking about relocating, be sure to take a look at our guides and resources to learn more about what to expect, and feel free to get in touch with us to discuss your options.
