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New Opportunities: Care Workforce Pathways in New Zealand

Amid the Covid-19 pandemic, the worldwide demand for healthcare workers has surged, highlighting the critical importance of having a robust and responsive healthcare system. In response to this heightened demand, countries such as New Zealand are devising innovative solutions to attract and retain skilled healthcare professionals.

However, New Zealand faces the compounded challenge of an ageing population, which necessitates an increasing number of care and support workers.The pandemic has intensified this need, putting additional strain on an already stretched healthcare system and underscoring the urgency of bolstering the workforce.

Introducing the Care Workforce Residence Pathway

To address this demand and provide a clear trajectory for care workers, Immigration New Zealand (INZ) has launched the Care Workforce Residence Pathway. 

This initiative, which commenced in September 2023, provides a tailored work-to-residence pathway designed specifically for care workers.

Eligibility Criteria for the NZ Care Workforce Work to Residence Visa

To be eligible, applicants must meet certain criteria to ensure they are suitably qualified and experienced to contribute to New Zealand’s healthcare sector.

Eligibility Criteria:

  • Hold a Role Listed in the Care Workforce Sector Occupation List:

Applicants must be employed in one of the roles specified on the Care Workforce Sector Occupation List. This list includes a range of occupations critical to providing comprehensive care and support to the elderly and disabled, ensuring that only those with relevant expertise and experience are considered.

  • Work Experience:

Applicants must have a minimum of 24 months of work experience in one of the listed roles within New Zealand. This requirement ensures that candidates have substantial, hands-on experience in the local healthcare environment, familiarising them with New Zealand’s healthcare standards and practices.

  • Age Requirement:

Applicants must be 55 years of age or younger. This age limit is set to ensure that candidates have the potential for a longer-term contribution to the healthcare workforce, addressing both current and future needs.

Occupations Covered Under This Pathway:

The occupations included in the Care Workforce Sector Occupation List are diverse and encompass a variety of roles that are vital to the healthcare sector:

  • Aged and Disabled Carers
  • Nursing Support Workers
  • Personal Care Assistants
  • Diversional Therapists

Benefits of the Care Workforce Work to Residence Visa 

  • Indefinite Length of Stay in New Zealand: One of the most compelling benefits of the Care Workforce Work to Residence Visa is the opportunity for an indefinite length of stay in New Zealand. 

This benefit means that successful applicants can transition from temporary status to permanent residency, allowing them to settle in New Zealand without worrying about future visa renewals or restrictions.

  • Inclusion of Partner and Dependent Children: This visa provides the valuable benefit of family unity by allowing the inclusion of the applicant’s partner and dependent children aged 24 or younger in the visa application. This means that families can move and settle together in New Zealand, ensuring that loved ones can remain close and support each other during the transition. 
  • Permission to Live, Work, and Study in New Zealand: Holders of the Care Workforce Work to Residence Visa are granted permission to live, work, and study in New Zealand. This comprehensive permission allows visa holders to fully integrate into New Zealand society. They can seek employment in their field of expertise, pursue further education to enhance their qualifications, and participate in all aspects of community life.

Important Considerations

While the pathway presents a promising opportunity, applicants must adhere to certain conditions:

  • Employment must be full-time and either permanent or fixed-term for at least 12 months.
  • A minimum pay rate of NZD $28.25 per hour (or equivalent salary) is required for the 24-month work experience.
  • Partners and children intending to study, work, or visit based on the applicant’s relationship must be included in the application.

The Road Ahead

The Care Workforce Residence Pathway underscores New Zealand’s unwavering commitment to bolstering healthcare professionals and catering to the evolving needs of its people.

By facilitating residency and recognizing the indispensable contributions of care workers, this pathway serves as a testament to New Zealand’s support for the healthcare sector. 

If you’re ready to pursue your career goals in New Zealand, we’re here to assist you every step of the way. Contact us now to kickstart your journey.