Previously we touched upon the reasons why New Zealand is a popular choice for Doctors desiring to work abroad. In this blog, I’ll be giving a basic introduction on the registration with MCNZ, eligibility for registration and available pathways to apply to work as a Doctor in New Zealand.

New Zealand has been ranked within the top ten countries in 2020 in terms of quality of life. International doctors seeking overseas opportunities are often enticed by New Zealand’s strong healthcare system and laid-back working conditions for Doctors.

Each year more than 1,500 Doctors register with the Medical Council of New Zealand. Over 17,000 registered Doctors are currently practicing in New Zealand of which 40% are overseas trained doctors from across 100 different countries.

To practice medicine in New Zealand, doctors must gain registration from the Medical Council of New Zealand (MCNZ) and have a practice certificare. In order to register with the MCNZ, it’s important for doctors to showcase their qualification, competency and preparedness. 

Registration

The registration process for Doctors aspiring to work in New Zealand is straightforward compared to the Australian registration process. It would take approximately a month to complete the application process with the MCNZ. However, for the full immigration and registration process it might take 3 months once you have secured a position.

There are various registration pathways depending on your qualifications, training, experience, and employment duration. Before you register you need to meet the MCNZ English language requirements. Pathways to non-specialist registration require the doctor to secure a job offer with an employer prior to registration.

Registration Eligibility

According to the New Zealand Medical Council, you are fit to register only if the following conditions are met:

1.           You can communicate effectively and comprehend English sufficiently to protect public health and safety

2.           You do not suffer from a physical or mental disorder which may affect your ability to practice medicine

3.           If you have a conviction for an offence punishable by imprisonment for a term of three months or longer; the offence does not reflect adversely on your fitness to practice

4.           If you are under investigation or the subject of professional disciplinary proceedings in New Zealand (or in another country), that investigation or matter does not reflect adversely on your fitness to practise

5.           If you are subject to any of the following orders, the order does not reflect adversely on your fitness to practise. That is:

o            an order of a professional disciplinary tribunal in New Zealand or overseas

o            an order of an accredited educational institution

o            an order of an authority or of a similar body in another country

6.           There is no reason to believe that you may endanger the health or safety of members of the public.

Pathways to Registration

If you are planning to become a Medical Practitioner in New Zealand and want to which pathway to follow, MCNZ’s Registration Self-Assessment Tool can help you determine which pathway to registration you might be eligible for.

There are three main pathway scopes: General, Vocational and Special Purpose Scope. Each scope has multiple application pathways and specific requirements to be met in order to register. Your scope of practice will depend on your qualifications, experience, duration of employment in New Zealand.

Read our next few blogs to know more about the General Scope, Vocational Scope, Special Purpose Scope and the registration process. To speak with one of our consultants, email your contact details to [email protected] and we’d be happy to get in touch with you to help you reach your next career destination.