Registered in the UK or Ireland? Your Fastest Route to Nursing in New Zealand
UK and Ireland-trained nurses qualify for New Zealand's most streamlined registration pathway — often with no OSCE, no CBT, and no English test.
Comparable Education, a Streamlined Route
New Zealand's Nursing Council may waive the standard competence assessment (CBT/OSCE) for nurses whose initial nursing education was completed in the UK or Ireland. This isn't automatic — it's assessed on a case-by-case basis after you apply — but it means many UK/Ireland-trained nurses face a shorter path than nurses trained elsewhere.
No OSCE or CBT in most cases
The Council usually waives the competence assessment for UK and Ireland-trained nurses.
English test exemption available
Your English-medium education or NMC/NMBI registration can count as evidence of English proficiency.
Faster overall timeline
No exam booking, prep, or exam travel required — so you reach registration sooner.
Four Steps to Registration
Verify your credentials
Apply through CVS-NCNZ at TruMerit (CGFNS). They verify your identity, education, and work history.
Apply to the Nursing Council
Submit your application via the MyIQN portal.
Council assessment
The Council reviews your file and confirms whether you're exempt from the competence assessment and English test.
Registration granted
Receive your NZ registration and apply for your practising certificate.
Your Eligibility Checklist
- ✓Nursing qualification equivalent to a NZ Bachelor of Nursing
- ✓Current registration with the NMC (UK) or NMBI (Ireland)
- ✓At least 1,800 hours of nursing practice in the last 5 years
- ✓Professional references from recent employers
- ✓International criminal history check
The Fine Print
Exemptions depend on where your initial nursing education was completed — not where you're currently registered. Postgraduate study in the UK/Ireland doesn't qualify on its own.
All exemptions are at the Council's discretion and are confirmed only after your application is assessed.
If the English exemption is declined, you can still register by passing OET or IELTS Academic.
Ready to Start?
Our team manages the full process — from TruMerit verification to your NZ registration. Get a free eligibility assessment today.