Reimagine your career, lifestyle, and future.

If you are considering working as a General Practitioner (GP) in New Zealand, you are not alone. With high demand, competitive salaries, and an exceptional lifestyle, Aotearoa offers a rewarding opportunity for overseas-trained GPs seeking a fresh start, whether short-term or permanent.

This guide covers everything you need to know to make the move, including registration, visas, salary expectations, job locations, and how we support you at each stage.

Medical Council of New Zealand (MCNZ) Registration

To practise medicine in New Zealand, you must be registered with the Medical Council of New Zealand (MCNZ). Most overseas-trained GPs apply via one of the following two pathways.

Comparable Health System Pathway

This is the most straightforward and cost-effective route if you are trained in an approved country.

You will need:

• A medical degree and a GP or family medicine postgraduate qualification

• At least 33 of the last 48 months working at registrar or consultant level

• A job offer from an approved New Zealand employer [link to /find-a-job/browse-jobs/]

• IELTS 7.0 (if applicable), references, and a certificate of good standing

• Completion of an MCNZ application and an in-person interview upon arrival

Vocational (Voc3) Pathway

This is ideal for GPs who have a recognised specialist qualification but are not from a comparable health system country.

You will need:

• A recognised GP or family medicine qualification

• At least two years of consultant-level experience

• A job offer, references, IELTS 7.0 (if applicable)

• MCNZ application and in-person interview

• Application to the Royal New Zealand College of General Practitioners (RNZCGP) for assessment

This process is more involved but suitable for GPs planning a longer-term move to New Zealand.

Primary Source Verification: EPIC

All GPs, regardless of pathway, must complete primary source verification of their qualifications through EPIC (Electronic Portfolio of International Credentials). This is the first official step in the registration process.

If you need help getting started, contact our team for guidance.

Comparable Health System Countries

As of 2025, the following countries are recognised by the MCNZ as comparable:

Australia, United Kingdom, Ireland, Canada, United States, South Africa, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Germany, France, Spain, the Netherlands, Sweden, Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, Greece, Hong Kong, Iceland, Israel, Italy, Luxembourg, Norway, Portugal, Republic of Croatia, Czech Republic, and Switzerland

If you are unsure whether your country is included, get in touch and we can check your eligibility.

What Do GPs Earn in New Zealand?

Hours: 32 to 40 per week
On-call or after-hours: Rare for most roles
Leave: 20 or more days of annual leave, plus a CME budget

Where Is GP Demand the Highest?

GPs are needed across both urban and rural regions in New Zealand. You can choose a location that suits your lifestyle, whether that is a vibrant city or a quiet coastal town.

High-demand regions

North Island: Northland, Bay of Plenty, Taranaki, Hawke’s Bay, Wellington, Auckland
South Island: Queenstown, Dunedin, Invercargill, Marlborough
Lifestyle-focused areas: Tauranga, Nelson, Rotorua, Wanaka, Whangarei

Rural and regional areas often offer relocation support, sign-on bonuses, and housing allowances to attract qualified professionals. See available jobs

How Long Does the Move Take?

How We Support You

Relocating is about more than paperwork. It is about finding the right professional fit and lifestyle for you and your family.

We support you by:

• Checking your eligibility and qualifications

• Matching you to roles that align with your goals

• Preparing your CV and assisting with references

• Guiding you through MCNZ registration

• Liaising with employers, immigration advisers, and relocation providers

• Providing honest, obligation-free advice from start to finish

Whether you are just beginning to explore the idea or ready to make the move, we are here to help.

Take the Next Step

If you are considering working as a GP in New Zealand, the best first step is to start a conversation. There is no pressure, just support, information, and expert advice.

• Browse current GP vacancies

• Contact Kelly below

Let us help you bring your skills to a country that values your time, your expertise, and your wellbeing.