Choice New Zealand Education Services is a premier nursing recruitment agency in New Zealand.

Auckland, New Zealand 0600

NZ Nursing Registration

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About The Service

The majority of internationally educated nurses who wish to work as registered nurses in New Zealand must participate in a competency assessment procedure run by the New Zealand Nursing Council. This process includes taking two exams that nurses must pass in order to obtain their New Zealand licence. All applicants must show up for an MCQ and practical (OSCE examination) administered by the New Zealand Nursing Council (NZNC) as part of the new evaluation procedure. The MCQ exam is administered in 200 countries, but the OSCE exam requires you to travel to New Zealand to sit for and complete the exam. We offer comprehensive assistance throughout the entire process of moving you through the different phases of the application procedure. We have assisted numerous nurses and are specialists in this area.

Eligibility for NNAS applications

  • GNM, Post-basic B.Sc. nursing, BSc. nursing or MSc. Nursing
  • Work Experience: 1800 hours, or 4 Months of experience, following the issuance of your home country's nursing license.
  • Academic English Language Proficiency - OET or IELTS .

OET scores of at least 300 for writing and -350 for speaking, listening, and reading. 

IELTS Academic requires a minimum writing score of 6.5 and a reading, hearing, and speaking score of -7.

Service Inclusions

  • Assistance with CGFNS Verification services
  • All India Nursing verification
  • Gulf Countries Nursing Verification
  • Enrolment in CAP (Competency Assessment Programme)
  • International criminal history check
  • Travel Planning Services
  • Arranging Accommodation
  • Pick up from the airport as well as help in buying a car once settled
  • CV Preparation
  • Spotting a RN job that interests you, as well as assistant in interview preparation
  • Job Visa assistant, after arriving in New Zealand
  • Assistant in Resident visa and family visa Application (If Applicable)
  • AHPR (Australian Health Practioner Regulation Agency conversion of New Zealand nursing licence (if candidates request it)
  • 24/7 support for all of your questions and concerns until you make your New Zealand

How do I start the process of registering as a nurse under this pathway?

Step 1: Submit an application for evaluation to CGFNS International. The cost of CGFNS is $300 USD. 

Step 2: Submit an application to the Nursing Council of New Zealand. 485 (NZD) is the cost. 

Step 3: Take the MCQ exam in your nation of origin. It costs 140 New Zealand dollars. 

Step 4: Get a visa so you can travel to New Zealand to study and take the test. There is a $250 NZD visa fee.

 Step 5: NZNC conducts an OSCE preparation and examination, costing 3500 NZD. 

Step 6: After passing the test, get an international criminal history check. The cost is AUD 160 for each nation you have resided in for at least six months during the previous seven years 

Step 7: Start working as a registered nurse in New Zealand by obtaining an Annual Practising certificate for a fee of 130 (NZD).

Optional: You can apply to AHPRA (Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency) through the TTMR (Trans-Tasman Mutual Recognition pathway) to obtain an Australian nursing license after receiving your New Zealand nursing license. The cost is 410 Australian dollars.

For more details fill out this form

Is it permitted for the New Zealand Nursing Council to use English score clubbing?

If scores are obtained in four sittings within a year and met within three years of your CGFNS report being sent to the New Zealand Nursing Council, clubbing of scores is permitted.

What is the duration of this application process?

The amount of time can vary based on each candidate's profile and how fast the applicant and case officer organize their documents. It can take, on average, six to eight months.

How many years of experience is required to apply to the Nursing Council of New Zealand?

6 months of experience following the issuance of your home country's nursing license.

How do I start the process of registering as a nurse under this pathway?

Step 1: Submit an application for evaluation to CGFNS International. The cost of CGFNS is $300 USD. 

Step 2: Submit an application to the Nursing Council of New Zealand. 485 (NZD) is the cost. 

How many years of experience is required to apply to the Nursing Council of New Zealand? How much does Pearson VUE charge for the IQN theoretical exam? 

The exam fee for the IQN theory/MCQ is $140 NZD. 

The MCQ exam consists of two parts: Part A (Medication Safety) and Part B (Nursing Knowledge). If you need to retake any of the parts, you must pay and show up for the part you missed. 

Re-sit Fees for MCQ Examination Components: 

Candidates requiring a re-sit of the MCQ examination should be aware of the following fees: 

  • Part A (Medication Safety): $32 NZ
  • Part B (Nursing Knowledge): $108 NZ

Course Fee for Orientation & Preparation Programme at Nurse Maude Simulation Centre?

The fee for the orientation and preparation course at the Nurse Maude Simulation Centre in Christchurch, New Zealand, is $500 NZ. This course is designed to equip nursing professionals with the essential skills and knowledge required for success, and we believe the investment will yield valuable returns in your career.

OSCE Clinical Examination Cost:

The fee for the Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) is $3,000 NZ. This rigorous assessment is a critical step in your professional development, and the cost reflects the high standards and expertise required to evaluate your clinical skills and competence.

Is there a fee for resitting the OSCE?

Yes, the fee for resitting the OSCE is $3,000 NZ.

Examination Attempt Policy:

Candidates are permitted a maximum of three attempts to successfully complete both the MCQ and OSCE examinations. This policy provides a reasonable opportunity for candidates to demonstrate their competence, while also maintaining the integrity and standards of the examination process.

Candidates should be aware that extra expenses may be incurred, including:

Document translation fees for certifying documents into English Travel-related costs, such as airfare and accommodation, associated with traveling to New Zealand for the examination These supplementary costs are not included in the examination fees and are the sole responsibility of the candidate

Visa Application Assistance:

We collaborate with reputable migration advisors in New Zealand who offer visitor visa application services at an additional fee. This optional service provides valuable expertise and support to ensure a smooth and successful visa application process

Assistance Available Upon Request:

Should you encounter any difficulties or have questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to us at your earliest convenience. Our knowledgeable and courteous staff are committed to providing timely and effective support to address your concerns and ensure a seamless experience.

Can I cancel my application?

Candidates are entitled to withdraw their application at any stage. Nevertheless, all fees paid prior to withdrawal are non-refundable and will be retained by the organization, regardless of the reason for cancellation.

Is there a specified timeframe for completing the registration process in its entirety?

Please note that there is no stipulated timeframe for completing the registration process. Nevertheless, it is strongly advised to expedite your registration to facilitate a prompt start to your nursing practice, as any delays may impact your ability to practice legally.

Who can I contact if I require assistance or guidance during the registration process?

Should you encounter any difficulties or have questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to us at your earliest convenience. Our knowledgeable and courteous staff are committed to providing timely and effective support to address your concerns and ensure a seamless experience.