New Zealand Caregiver Visa Jobs: 2025 Residency Guide
Are you looking for an excellent career that offers a pathway to permanent residency (PR) in one of the most beautiful countries in the world, New Zealand? Significant changes have been made to the New Zealand Caregiver Visa rules in 2025, making the journey from a job offer to a New Zealand passport even easier for workers coming from abroad.
In this guide, you will find all the information needed to secure caregiver jobs in New Zealand with visa sponsorship, understand the Green List, and qualify for the Care Workforce Work to Residence Visa.
2025 Caregiver Visa Landscape: Key Terms
To apply from overseas, it is essential to understand the terminology used by Immigration New Zealand (INZ):
- Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV): This is the most common visa. You can only work for an “Accredited Employer”—companies pre-approved by the government to hire foreign workers.
- Green List Tier 2: Caregiving roles are now included in Tier 2 of the Green List. This means that after gaining 2 years of local experience, you can apply for residency.
- Care Workforce Work to Residence Visa: This is a pathway specifically designed for the care sector, considered the best option for long-term security as of 2025.
- Care Sector Agreement: This agreement ensures fair wages for migrant caregivers. In 2025, the minimum rate for these visas is approximately $28.25 NZD per hour.
Mandatory Qualifications and Skills
New Zealand employers prioritize NZQA standards:
- NZQA Level 3 or 4: A certificate in health and wellbeing. If you do not have this, look for jobs that offer “earn while you learn” programs.
- English Proficiency: For skill levels 4 and 5, you will need IELTS (6.0 score) or an equivalent PTE/TOEFL score.
- Manual Handling & Hoist Training: Training in lifting and transferring patients.
- First Aid Certificate: This must be current and meet NZ standards.
- Driving License: A clean driving license is vital for “Community Support” roles.
2025 Wages and Benefits
- Hourly Rate: Visa-sponsored jobs pay a minimum of $28.25 NZD.
- Work Hours: You must work at least 30 hours per week for residency eligibility.
- Family Benefits: According to 2025 rules, if your annual income is approximately $55,844 NZD, you can also bring your partner and children.
How to Apply from Overseas (Step-by-Step)
- Update Your CV: Write your experience according to ANZSCO descriptions.
- Check Accreditation: Verify on the Immigration NZ website whether the employer is accredited.
- Secure a Job Offer: Attend online interviews. Large groups like Bupa and Ryman Healthcare frequently hire from abroad.
- Apply for AEWV: Once you have a job offer, apply for your individual work visa.
- Work for 24 Months: After arriving in NZ, complete 2 years of work and then apply for a Resident Visa.
(FAQs): New Zealand Caregiver Visa Jobs For Fore
Can I apply without a degree?
For most roles, a Level 3 certificate or practical experience is sufficient.
Is there an age limit?
You must be under 55 years of age at the time you apply for residency.
How long does the visa take?
Generally, the AEWV process takes 6 to 12 weeks.
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Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only. Always verify details from the official employer or the Immigration New Zealand website before applying.