On 4th December 2023, the Nursing Council of New Zealand (NCNZ) updated their regulations for Nursing Registration. Now with this, the Nursing Registration in New Zealand Requirements are also updated.

Previously, the NCNZ assessed nurses based on the Competence Assessment Program (CAP). However, the process and criteria have since been altered, and the CAP program is no longer in use. The NCNZ has introduced a new system to evaluate nurses’ competency. This updated procedure emphasizes a thorough and modernized method to guarantee that nurses deliver safe and top-notch care to their patients. The new criteria encompass factors like continuous professional development, assessments of clinical skills, and compliance with ethical standards. By adapting to the evolving healthcare environment, the NCNZ strives to assist nurses in their ongoing progress and improvement, ultimately enhancing both the healthcare system and the communities they cater to. The updated Nursing Registration in New Zealand Requirements are:
Work Experience Requirement
Nurses seeking Nursing Registration in New Zealand must have a minimum of 1800 hours of nursing experience within the last 10 years. Once this criterion is met, applicants can proceed with the Nursing Registration application in New Zealand through CGFNS (Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools). It is essential to remember that applicants must first apply to CGFNS to validate their documents before applying directly to the Nursing Council of New Zealand.
Qualification and Registration as Nurse
Internationally Qualified Nurses (IQN) must meet specific qualifications to register as nurses in New Zealand. These criteria ensure the maintenance of healthcare standards in New Zealand. By meeting these requirements, IQN can effectively contribute to the healthcare sector in New Zealand and deliver top-notch care to patients nationwide. To apply through CGFNS, candidates need to be currently registered as a nurse with an overseas registration authority within the past 10 years. Furthermore, they should have completed a Bachelor of Nursing degree (or equivalent) or a Master’s degree in nursing that led to their registration. These qualifications must be equivalent to New Zealand qualifications.
English language Requirements
The Internationally Qualified Nurses must pass two language proficiency tests to be eligible for the Nursing Registration in New Zealand: IELTS and OET.
IELTS Academic: The minimum required score is a band score is 7, in reading, listening and speaking and a minimum band score of 6.5 in writing.
OET (Occupational English Test): IQN is required to score a minimum of 350 in speaking, listening and reading and a minimum of 300 in writing.
The candidates have the opportunity to reach the minimum English Language test scores by taking the test multiple times within a year of their initial attempt. This flexibility enables candidates to pace themselves, giving them sufficient time to enhance their scores. With multiple sittings allowed within a year, candidates can concentrate on specific areas for improvement and steadily progress towards achieving their target scores. This method fosters a growth mindset, allowing candidates to demonstrate their language proficiency progressively. It encourages an inclusive testing approach that emphasizes ongoing learning and advancement.
Identity Proof
The first step of the Nursing Registration is document verification by CGFNS. One crucial document to be verified is your Identity. To fulfil this requirement, applicants need to submit coloured copies of a certified valid passport along with another identity document that includes a clear photo of the applicant to verify the name. All identity documents submitted for the registration application must be valid at the time of application to CGFNS. The approved forms of photo identification (ID) documents are:
- Passport (mandatory)
- Driver’s License
- Other government-issued ID
Additional acceptable forms of identification comprise:
- Birth certificates
- Marriage certificates
- Divorce certificates
In case of the name change the applicants are needed to provide a Legal name change affidavits.
Competent to Practice
The nurses applying need to complete a competence assessment to prove that they are competent to practice nursing in New Zealand. This is checked through a series of exams to check the ethics, nursing knowledge, clinical knowledge, etc.
Welcome to the Aotearoa New Zealand program
The initial phase involves completing two free online courses for students to gain an understanding of culturally safe nursing practice in New Zealand. The applicants are required to pass these two tests in order to become registered nurses in New Zealand. These tests are accessible for online completion from home and consist of:
- Test 1: Ngā Paerewa Te Tiriti Module 1
- Test 2: Foundations in Cultural Competence
Theoretical Exam
The second step of the process involves nurses taking an online theoretical exam. This assessment tests their nursing knowledge and can be completed globally at a Pearson VUE-accredited Nursing Council exam centre. The exam consists of two parts:
- Part A: Medication Safety
- Part B: Nursing Knowledge
To successfully navigate this assessment, candidates must demonstrate their knowledge and skills in both Part A and Part B. However, if you find yourself facing the challenge of not passing the exam or any one part of it, then you have the opportunity to retake the exam, albeit with additional fees. This option allows you to review your performance, identify areas for improvement, and come back stronger in your next attempt.
OSCE Exam
The Objective Structured Clinical Exam (OSCE) is a thorough two-day orientation and preparation program that concludes with a 3-hour OSCE exam. This clinical assessment takes place in person at an accredited examination centre in New Zealand. Candidates qualified for this examination must visit New Zealand on a New Zealand Visitor Visa to participate. In the event of failing the OSCE, candidates have the option to retake the exam.
Fitness to Practice
Additional steps in the process involve a Fitness to Practice evaluation. This assessment is a mandatory requirement once you receive an invitation to register with the Nursing Council. As part of the process, all applicants must undergo an International Criminal History Check (ICHC) conducted by Fit2work.
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