New Zealand Care Workforce Work, Are you planning to settle in New Zealand and build a career in the healthcare or caregiving sector? The New Zealand Care Workforce Work to Residence Visa in 2025 is one of the most promising immigration pathways for skilled caregivers, support workers, and healthcare assistants.New Zealand Care Workforce Work In this 1000-word SEO-optimized, we will explore everything you need to know about this visa—eligibility criteria, benefits, application process, salary expectations, and future prospects.New Zealand Care Workforce Work
What is the Care Workforce Work to Residence Visa?
The Care Workforce Work to Residence Visa is part of New Zealand’s Green List Tier 2 occupations, allowing foreign workers in specific care-related roles to transition from a temporary work visa to a residence visa after 24 months of employment.
This visa is perfect for:
- Aged Care Workers
- Disability Support Workers
- Healthcare Assistants
- Personal Care Aides
Introduced to address a critical shortage in the healthcare and aged care sectors, this visa allows you to move to New Zealand, work in an eligible caregiving role, and apply for permanent residence after two years.New Zealand Care Workforce Work
Key Benefits of the Care Workforce Work to Residence Visa in 2025
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| Pathway to Residence | Apply for NZ residency after 2 years |
| High Demand Sector | Care sector is on the Green List Tier 2 |
| Visa Sponsorship | Employers can sponsor your visa |
| Bring Your Family | Spouse & children can join you |
| Salary-Based Entry | Minimum pay of NZD $28.25/hr in 2025 |
| Free Healthcare & Education | For residents and dependents |
Eligibility Criteria in 2025
To qualify for the New Zealand Care Workforce Work to Residence Visa in 2025, applicants must meet the following requirements:
1. Job Offer in an Eligible Role
- Your job must be as a Caregiver, Healthcare Assistant, or Disability Support Worker
- Employer must be accredited by Immigration New Zealand (INZ)
2. Employment Duration
- Must work continuously for 24 months in the eligible role before applying for residence
3. Minimum Pay Rate
- Must earn at least NZD $28.25 per hour (subject to annual wage review)
4. Full-Time Employment
- Work must be 30+ hours per week
5. Character and Health Requirements
- Clean criminal record
- Good health (medical exam may be required)
6. Work Visa Holder
- Must currently hold or have held an Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)
Eligible Job Roles Under the Green List (Care Workforce)
The following roles are eligible for the Work to Residence pathway in 2025:
- Aged or Disabled Carer (ANZSCO 423111)
- Nursing Support Worker (ANZSCO 423312)
- Residential Support Worker (ANZSCO 423313)
- Health and Welfare Support Worker (ANZSCO 423000)
These roles require basic training, care experience, and a strong willingness to work with vulnerable individuals.New Zealand Care Workforce Work
Salary Expectations for Care Workers in 2025
The minimum wage to qualify for this visa in 2025 is NZD $28.25/hour, but many care workers in New Zealand earn between:
- NZD $29 – $32/hour
- Yearly income: NZD $58,760 – $66,560
- Overtime, night shifts, and weekend work may increase total earnings
Wages may also vary based on location. Auckland and Wellington typically offer higher pay compared to smaller towns.New Zealand Care Workforce Work
Top Accredited Employers Hiring Care Workers in New Zealand
Several healthcare and aged-care employers in New Zealand are accredited to hire foreign workers under this visa:
- Bupa New Zealand
- One of NZ’s largest aged care providers
- Locations: Nationwide
- Summerset Group
- Offers retirement villages & aged care facilities
- Oceania Healthcare
- Offers full-time caregiving jobs with training
- Geneva Healthcare
- Specializes in disability support and home care
- Ryman Healthcare
- Employs healthcare assistants and personal carers
All these employers offer visa sponsorship and relocation assistance for eligible international applicants.
Can You Bring Your Family?
Yes. The Care Workforce Work to Residence Visa allows for:
- Partner Visa: Your spouse can work full-time
- Dependent Child Visa: Children can attend school for free
- Access to public healthcare and social benefits after becoming a resident
Step-by-Step Application Process (2025)
Step 1: Get a Job Offer
- Apply for caregiving jobs through accredited employers
- Job boards to check:
Step 2: Apply for AEWV
- Once hired, your employer applies for an Accredited Employer Work Visa
- Must show you meet skill, experience, and wage criteria
Step 3: Work for 24 Months
- Work continuously for two years in your caregiving role
- Maintain wage and hours eligibility
Step 4: Apply for Residence
- Apply for the Care Workforce Work to Residence Visa
- Submit supporting documents:
- Proof of 2-year employment
- Valid employment contract
- ID, medical, and police clearance
Step 5: Wait for Approval
- Processing time: 6–9 months (average)
- If approved, you’ll receive residency status
Important Dates for 2025
- Application Window: Open throughout 2025
- Wage Threshold Update: Reviewed in February 2025
- Policy Review: Possible updates expected in July 2025
Final Tips for Applicants
- Complete Caregiving Courses: Online certifications in elderly care or health support can improve your chances.
- Get English Test Scores: IELTS or TOEFL may be required by employers (not always mandatory).
- Apply Early: Healthcare demand is high, but so is competition.
- Use Official Channels: Avoid middlemen or unofficial agents who ask for fees.
Conclusion
The New Zealand Care Workforce Work to Residence Visa in 2025 offers an incredible opportunity for caregivers and healthcare support workers to build a permanent life in one of the world’s safest and most welcoming countries. With job security, high wages, and a clear path to residence, this visa program is perfect for foreign workers ready to commit to meaningful and impactful work.New Zealand Care Workforce Work