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New Zealand Nursing Registration
June 6, 2025
June 6, 2025

New Zealand Nursing Registration Guide for 2025-2026

Author By Gurleen Khaira Categories Blog, New Zealand Nursing Registration, OET registration

As the healthcare industry continues to thrive globally, New Zealand has emerged as one of the top destinations for internationally qualified nurses, including those from India. In 2025-2026, the nursing registration process in New Zealand is streamlined and offers exciting opportunities for Indian nurses seeking to build their careers in a country known for its high demand in healthcare and its attractive living standards.

With the latest revisions to the registration process, Indian nurses now have a clear path to start their career in New Zealand, whether they are looking for a Work Visa or a Straight to Residence Visa. The Green List, which includes nursing roles as Tier 1, further highlights the substantial need for nurses and the benefits of international recruitment.

In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the New Zealand Nursing Registration Process for 2025- 2026, including the key steps involved, associated costs, timelines, and why Khaira Education is your ideal partner in this journey.

Why Choose New Zealand for Your Nursing Career?

New Zealand for Your Nursing Career

The Growing Demand for Nurses in New Zealand

New Zealand’s healthcare sector is experiencing significant growth, and the demand for qualified nurses has never been higher. Nurses play a critical role in the healthcare system, making nursing a rewarding career path in the country. Notably, nursing jobs are listed under Tier 1 on New Zealand’s Green List, which means they are highly sought-after roles for skilled professionals.

For Indian nurses, New Zealand offers an excellent opportunity to start a stable and rewarding career. Nurses from India are welcomed with open arms, and the country provides substantial benefits, including the option for Work Visas or Straight to Residence Visas. This is a key advantage that allows nurses to live and work in New Zealand permanently, providing a clear pathway to permanent residency.

Step-by-Step Guide to New Zealand Nursing Registration for 2025- 2026

New Zealand Nursing Registration 2025 and 2026

The registration process in New Zealand for nurses is clear and organized. It involves a series of essential steps that ensure that internationally trained nurses meet the standards required to practice safely in New Zealand. Let’s explore the key stages involved.

1. CGFNS Document Verification: The First Step Towards Registration

Before you can apply for registration with the Nursing Council of New Zealand (NCNZ), your qualifications must be verified by the Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools (CGFNS). This verification is vital as it ensures that your credentials meet New Zealand’s nursing standards.

Documents required for CGFNS verification include:

  • Nursing qualifications that meet the NCNZ’s standards
  • Proof of current nursing registration
  • IELTS or OET exam results to demonstrate English proficiency
  • Identity documents (passport, national ID, etc.)
  • Work experience documentation
    ✅ Explore our expert-led OET coaching to pass your exam on the first attempt.

The verification fee for CGFNS is $300 USD (approximately 25,190 INR). Once verified, the report will be sent directly to the NCNZ within 30 days, allowing you to proceed with your application.

2. Apply to the Nursing Council of New Zealand (NCNZ)

Once your CGFNS verification is complete, you are eligible to apply for registration with the Nursing Council of New Zealand. Within 30 days of receiving the CGFNS report, you need to submit your application to NCNZ.

The application process includes the following:

  • Payment of an application and processing fee of NZ$485 (approximately 24,984 INR).
  • Submission of all required documents, which NCNZ will review based on the seven registration standards.

After reviewing your application, the NCNZ will send you an invitation to complete further steps, including the culturally safe nursing courses and a criminal background check.

3. Complete the Culturally Safe Nursing Courses

New Zealand places significant emphasis on culturally safe nursing, as it is a diverse country with a wide range of ethnic communities. As part of the registration process, you are required to complete two online courses that provide insight into culturally safe nursing practices in New Zealand.

The two mandatory online courses are:

  • Ngā Paerewa Te Tiriti Module 1
  • Foundations in Cultural Competence

Both courses are free and can be taken online from anywhere. Once you have completed these courses, you need to upload the certificates to the NCNZ’s IQN portal to demonstrate that you have understood and embraced culturally safe nursing practices in the country.

4. International Criminal History Check (ICHC)

As part of the New Zealand nursing registration process, Indian nurses are required to undergo an International Criminal History Check (ICHC) to ensure they meet the ethical and legal standards required to practice in the country. This check is facilitated through Fit2Work, an accredited agency.

The ICHC checks your criminal history globally, ensuring that you have a clean record and can practice safely as a nurse. This is a critical step to maintain the integrity of the healthcare profession in New Zealand.

5. Competence to Practice: Theoretical and OSCE Exams

The final stage in the registration process is assessing your competence to practice as a nurse. This is done through a two-part evaluation involving the theoretical exam and the Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE).

Theoretical Exam

The first component of the competency assessment is the theoretical exam, which is held online at Pearson VUE-accredited centers. This exam is divided into two parts:

  • Part A: Medication Safety
  • Part B: Nursing Knowledge

You must pass both parts to proceed to the OSCE. If you fail any part, you can retake the exam by paying an additional fee.

Need study materials? Check out our OET books written by experts and trusted by thousands of nurses.

OSCE Exam

The second part of the competence assessment is the Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE). This is an in-person practical exam that assesses your clinical skills in real-life scenarios.

Before the exam, you must attend a two-day OSCE orientation and preparation session in Christchurch, New Zealand. The exam itself is taken at an accredited center, and candidates must hold a New Zealand Visitor Visa to attend.

If you fail the OSCE, you can retake the exam, but you will incur additional costs for the re-sit.

How Much Does the Nursing Registration Process in New Zealand Cost?

New Zealand Nursing Registration

The cost of nursing registration in New Zealand can vary depending on the steps you need to complete. Below is a breakdown of the fees you will encounter during the process:

  • CGFNS Verification Fee: $300 USD (approx. 25,190 INR)
  • NCNZ Application and Processing Fee: NZ$485 (approx. 24,984 INR)
  • International Criminal History Check Fee: NZ$169 (approx. 8,706 INR)
  • Theoretical Exam Fee: NZ$140 (approx. 7,212 INR)
  • OSCE Orientation and Preparation Fee: NZ$500 (approx. 25,756 INR)
  • OSCE Clinical Examination Fee: NZ$3,000 (approx. 154,537 INR)
  • OSCE Re-sit Fee: NZ$3,000 (approx. 154,537 INR)

It’s essential to factor in these costs as part of your financial planning for the registration process. Keep in mind that successful completion of the exams on the first attempt will save you additional re-sit fees.

How Long Does It Take to Complete the Nursing Registration Process?

The entire registration process typically takes between 5 to 7 months. This timeline can vary depending on how quickly you submit your documents, how soon you pass the exams, and whether you need to retake any parts of the process.

It’s important to note that a proactive approach, such as submitting documents promptly and preparing thoroughly for the exams, can expedite the registration process.

Why Choose Khaira Education for Your OET, IQN Theory, and OSCE Exam Preparation?

OSCE Exam Preparation New Zealand Nursing Registration

At Khaira Education, we are dedicated to helping international nurses like you succeed in the New Zealand nursing registration process. We specialize in preparing nurses for OET, IQN theory, and OSCE exams with expert guidance, personalized study plans, and flexible learning options.

Our Offerings Include:

  • Online OET Preparation: Access flexible, high-quality OET courses that fit your schedule.
  • Free OET Resources: Benefit from free sample tests, video lectures, and study guides available on our website and YouTube channel.
  • Comprehensive Practice Tests: Regular practice tests that simulate real exam conditions.
  • Affordable Courses: We offer affordable and up-to-date OET preparation courses.
  • Expert Trainers: Our experienced trainers provide personalized feedback to ensure you are fully prepared.
  • Customized Study Plans: Tailored study plans that meet your individual learning needs.
  • Follow us for success stories, updates, and free tips on Instagram.

Choosing Khaira Education means choosing a partner that is invested in your success. With years of experience and a proven track record, we are proud to help nurses from across the world achieve their goals and advance their healthcare careers.

Conclusion: Begin Your Nursing Career in New Zealand Today

The revised nursing registration process for 2025-2026 in New Zealand offers exciting opportunities for Indian nurses to build a successful and rewarding career in a country known for its excellent healthcare system. With streamlined processes, substantial visa options, and high demand for skilled nurses, New Zealand is the perfect destination for internationally qualified nurses.

If you’re ready to start your journey, Khaira Education is here to guide you every step of the way. Our comprehensive exam preparation courses, expert trainers, and flexible learning options—backed by a 100% success rate—make us your ideal partner for achieving success in New Zealand’s nursing registration process.

Take the First Step Toward Your Future in New Zealand

Contact Khaira Education today to learn more about our OET coaching, IQN theory, and OSCE exam preparation courses. Start your nursing career in New Zealand with the right guidance and support.

 

A Doctor Doing Registration in OET Portal
September 12, 2020
September 12, 2020

How to register in Online OET Portal?

Author By Gurleen Khaira Categories OET registration

Create an account for OET Test

In this article, we discuss the way to create an account in OET portal. There is no big deal to create accounts for OET. It can easily be done at home convenience. The OET account is known as My OET. After creating an account, the candidate can easily apply for the OET test, check their results. Moreover, it acts as a platform where certain activities can be done easily.

Steps for creating the MyOET account

The six basic steps for OET portal :- 

  • Identification Card 
  • Photo of the applicant.
  • Creating a Login Account  
  • Certain terms and Conditions 
  • Security /Password 
  • Now, Essential but Additional Information 

Step 1:- Identification Documents 

Identification card actually defines candidates’ information and self-determination. During login, the candidate should know which ID card he /she will use when going to sit for the OET Exam. Many candidates don’t consider this thing important but on the test day, they might be stuck in this problem.

Important Information for ID card

  • The candidate’s ID card must have a recent photograph.
  • The particular card must have valid day, so you can sit for the test
  • Lastly, be the same person for the test.

Consequently, the candidate can take his /her test anywhere from 40 countries .The date of the test is listed on official page of the OET site. Although, the candidate can take test in his/her country or another country. On this basis, there are certain criteria the candidate needs to follow.

First Condition :- Sitting outside your country for OET Test

In this case, only the original passport is acceptable of the candidate.

Second Condition :- Sitting in your country for OET exam

If the candidate is sitting in his/her country for the OET exam, he/she has two options in the case of identification documents – whether the candidate can use his / her international passport or local identification card of his country, for instance (National card) or any other.

Let’s take an example of India, if the students is a citizen of India and planning to test in India only, then, he/she have choices of centers in India – Ahmedabad, Amritsar,

Bangalore, Chandigarh, Chennai, Coimbatore, Hyderabad, Kochi, Kolkata, Mumbai, and Delhi. Despite, it is better to use your passport in order to avoid uncertainty on the test day.

Step 2:- Photograph 

Now, another step is to upload a photo while creating an account. Therefore, it is better to get photo ready before the candidate attempt to create the account.
Following are the requirements when it comes to upload the photograph.

  • The passport photo is required, colored one with white background.
  • The photograph should not be old – (less than three months old).
  • Size of the Photograph – 200kb to 2 Mb
  • Format of the photograph –JBG to PNG only.
  • The face of the candidate must be clearly visible from chin to forehead.
  • The photograph must be sharp and clear.

However, if the candidate is not able meet above requirements, he/she won’t be able proceed further in OET login process.

Step 3:- Go online and Create account

Now, create your OET login account. Go to the official website of OET. Then, click on the login, which is on the corner of the page. Next, click on apply /resit. Next, you will reach to the page where it asks you some login details. Consequently, you haven’t created an account, so click on Register. After that, a pop up appears that will ask about the applicant’s personal information. Fill those details and questions with * is mandatory to be filled in.

Following are the guidelines while completing personal information:-
  • Name of the candidate – Fill in Given name, Family name and Middle name is optional.
  • Date of birth: When the applicant clicks on this, a calendar will appear. Select the date of birth, month, and year. Be careful, the year must be correct.
  • Gender: – Select the gender from the dropdown box.
  • Photograph – Now, here step 2 is covered i.e. where the phot is uploaded.
  • Profession: – Now, this is a very important phase, where the candidate needs to be very careful. There are a total of 12 professions in Oet Test. Therefore, the candidate will select his /her profession, where he /she wants to sit for the OET exam. The twelve professions mainly are:-
DentistryOptometry
NursingMedicine
Occupational TherapyPharmacy
Veterinary scienceSpeech pathology
RadiographyPodiatry
PhysiotherapyDietetics

Therefore, from above 12 professions, the candidate will select his/her main key in which he/she wants to take the test. For instance, if the candidate wants to register in the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC), he/she will go for the Nursing Profession.

  • Address – Fill it with your permanent address.
  • Contact Number: – Fill this space with your phone number along with country code/area code.
  • ID type – As we discussed at step 1, there is a major importance of Identification documents while creating an OET account. While clicking on this, the dropdown will appear with three options – Passport, National Id, and Alternative Id.
  • ID number – Correspondingly, Fill this space with Id number, the candidate has keyed in the above section.
  • Nationality – Select the nationality from dropdown options.
  • First language – In the same way, Select your first language from dropdown options.
  • Email:-To get all the recent updates related to OET test dates and fees, fill this space with email is and confirm it by re-entering it.

Step 4:- Terms and Conditions

By filling all personal details, click on “NEXT “. Afterward, the terms and conditions page will appears, read them carefully, and select I agree, then Next.

Step 5:- Security answer

In this section, the candidate will create a username, a password for security.

  • Username: – The username should be unique and a minimum of 6 characters. If the same username existed, the system will prompt a message displaying this username is already exists. Therefore, the candidate tries to create a new one until the system accepts it.
  • Password: – Now, the most important is to create your password. Subsequently, the password should be unique with one capital letter and numerical value.
  • Security question: – Certain questions will be asked in this section just to ensure security. From the given dropdown options, select any question like Name of your first friend. The candidate must provide his/her answer and remember it too.

Step 6:- More Information

Finally, the last step in the registration process is to fill up some additional Information. OET will ask you questions like Why OET? What is your recent qualification or have you taken an English language test earlier?
Click the given CAPTCHA and click NEXT.
Here, you have completed the whole process of OET registration.
All the best!!!