Docs Abroad
New Zealand
Where do I start?
The best place to start is by looking at job postings. Understand that New Zealand has many more positions for generalists (GP, Psych, ER, General anesthetists) than it does for specialized physicians. Flexibility in practice options will allow for much more opportunities for you.
What's Next?
If you are serious, apply for a job and start on EPIC documentation submission right away. EPIC is an online platform that verifies all your licenses and diplomas. It takes a minimum of 2 months (up to 6+ months) and cost is about 100 USD per document. Send all of your documents to the Medical Council of New Zealand (MCNZ).
Extra tip: Follow up. Call EPIC +1 (215) 966-3900 if you see significant delays. Documents can stall for many reasons and they will NOT notify you.
MCNZ (Medical College of New Zealand): You will need licensure through the MCNZ. All of your EPIC documents will be sent directly to the college. In general, you will likely start with an application for a provisional license (Reg-1). The long-term Vocational Registration (VOC3) application takes at least 6 months to approve is only awarded after a supervision period under the provisional license.
Immigration: Which visa should I apply for?
For New Zealand, you have to first apply for a visitor visa. If you are working with a New Zealand Health Board, they can often assist in fast tracking your application if you qualify as a Critical Purpose Health Worker. (apply for Critical Purpose Visitor Visa- CPVV). Once in country, you can then apply for a Work Visa. You will need this different visa to begin work, so apply for this ASAP. If you have children or a spouse, you will apply for student visas for your children and a work visa for your spouse once in country. Of note, they will also need visitor visas prior to entry into New Zealand.
COVID note: New Zealand is no longer quarantining travelers, however you must be vaccinated. Make sure you have your official vaccine records available for entry.
Moving...what do bring and companies to use
We decided to put our most precious items in a small storage unit near family. We divided the rest into two piles: Now items, and later items. It can take on average 3-5 months for your shipment to arrive in New Zealand via sea freight, therefore consider that you may need furnished housing anyway. I do know many people that shipped some furniture and bought minimal items to tide them over until the shipment arrived. It really depends on expenses and how attached you are to your things. Also, if you are considering a short-term move (1 year) I would recommend not bothering with the shipment. Currently, we are very comfortable in Christchurch in a furnished rental. We did ship a 250 soft crate which took 3 months to arrive. I’m very happy to have all our sports equipment because the cost here would have made it impossible for us to have access to everything we enjoy. Also, note that furniture is extraordinarily expensive and it’s likely more affordable for you to bring your items if you are here long term.
Am I really doing this?
Get connected! I have found many great sources for insight on social media. It’s awesome to feel you are not alone in this crazy journey, so search physician groups for your desired location
New Zealand has several since it’s one of the few places doctors do now need additional training:
-New Zealand PMG (FB group for physician mothers)
-Doctors moving to NZ (FB)