The country’s aging population and commitment to high-quality healthcare services have led to a shortage of qualified workers in roles such as caregivers, healthcare assistants, and registered nurses. For international workers, securing a job with visa sponsorship in New Zealand is an attractive pathway to not only build a rewarding career but also experience life in a country known for its stunning landscapes, high quality of life, and multicultural environment.
Why Choose Care Jobs in New Zealand
The country’s healthcare system emphasizes quality care, cultural sensitivity, and professional development, which appeals to international workers seeking meaningful employment. Care jobs in New Zealand are diverse, ranging from aged care and disability support to mental health and community-based services. These roles are in high demand due to the country’s aging population, with Statistics New Zealand projecting that by 2030, over 20% of the population will be over 65, increasing the need for skilled caregivers.
Visa sponsorship is a key factor that makes New Zealand an attractive destination for foreign care workers. Many employers, particularly in the aged care and healthcare sectors, are accredited by Immigration New Zealand, allowing them to sponsor work visas for qualified candidates. This sponsorship can lead to pathways for permanent residency, such as the Care Workforce Work to Residence Visa, which requires 24 months of work in a care role with an accredited employer. The combination of job security, competitive wages, and the potential for long-term residency makes care jobs in New Zealand a compelling choice for foreigners.
Care Jobs in New Zealand for Foreigners with Visa Sponsorship
Care jobs in New Zealand are highly valued, as they contribute to the well-being of vulnerable populations, including the elderly, disabled, and those requiring medical support. The demand for caregivers and healthcare professionals is particularly strong in aged care, mental health, and community support services. Visa sponsorship makes it possible for foreigners to fill these critical roles, as many employers are accredited by Immigration New Zealand to hire international workers. This article will provide a comprehensive overview of the types of care jobs available, the visa sponsorship process, and actionable advice for foreigners looking to start their careers in New Zealand.
Types of Care Jobs Available for Foreigners with Visa Sponsorship
Caregiver Roles
Caregiver roles are among the most in-demand care jobs in New Zealand, particularly in aged care and disability support. Caregivers provide essential support to elderly or disabled individuals, assisting with daily tasks such as personal care, meal preparation, and mobility. These roles require compassion, patience, and a commitment to improving the quality of life for care recipients. Many employers, such as Ryman Healthcare and Bupa, offer visa sponsorship for caregivers, especially for those with relevant qualifications or experience.
In 2025, caregiver positions are widely available across New Zealand, with employers seeking candidates who demonstrate genuine dedication to care. According to recent job listings on SEEK and Indeed, caregiver roles often require a Level 3 or 4 Health and Wellbeing certificate or equivalent experience, though some employers provide on-the-job training. These positions typically offer hourly wages ranging from NZD 26 to NZD 32, with additional benefits like time-and-a-half pay for overtime and flexible schedules to accommodate work-life balance.
Caregiver roles are particularly appealing for foreigners due to their accessibility and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact. For example, Ryman Healthcare emphasizes a “person-first” approach, encouraging caregivers to build strong relationships with residents and their families. Visa sponsorship for these roles is often facilitated through the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV), which requires a full-time job offer from an accredited employer and a minimum wage aligned with the care workforce sector rate.
The demand for caregivers is particularly strong in regions like Auckland, Christchurch, and Wellington, where aged care facilities and community support services are expanding. Foreigners interested in these roles should highlight their interpersonal skills, cultural sensitivity, and any prior experience in care settings to stand out in the competitive job market. With visa sponsorship available, caregiver roles offer a stable entry point into New Zealand’s care sector.
Healthcare Assistant (HCA) Roles
Healthcare Assistants (HCAs) play a vital role in New Zealand’s healthcare system, supporting nurses and doctors in hospitals, rest homes, and community settings. HCAs assist with patient care, including monitoring vital signs, helping with hygiene, and providing emotional support. These roles are in high demand, with Health New Zealand – Te Whatu Ora and private providers like Ultimate Care Group actively seeking foreign workers with visa sponsorship.
Recent job listings indicate that HCAs with a New Zealand Level 3 Health Care Assistant certificate or equivalent experience are highly sought after. For example, a July 2025 listing from Health New Zealand – Te Whatu Ora in Counties Manukau highlights opportunities in their 22-bed inpatient medicine ward, offering visa sponsorship for candidates with relevant qualifications. HCAs typically earn between NZD 25 and NZD 30 per hour, with additional benefits like professional development and shift allowances.
Visa sponsorship for HCAs is facilitated through the AEWV, with employers requiring candidates to have a valid work visa or eligibility to apply. Foreigners with overseas qualifications may need to have their credentials assessed by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) to ensure alignment with local standards. The role’s accessibility makes it an excellent option for international workers looking to enter the healthcare sector without advanced qualifications.
The job market for HCAs is competitive, but the demand remains strong, particularly in rural and regional areas. Foreigners can enhance their applications by obtaining a New Zealand driver’s license and gaining part-time experience while on a student or temporary visa, as this demonstrates commitment and local knowledge. With visa sponsorship, HCAs have a clear pathway to long-term career growth and residency in New Zealand.
Registered Nurse (RN) Roles
Registered Nurses (RNs) are critical to New Zealand’s healthcare system, providing clinical care in hospitals, aged care facilities, and community settings. RNs with specialist skills, such as wound care or dementia care, are in particularly high demand, with many employers offering visa sponsorship to attract international talent. Companies like Bupa and Health New Zealand – Te Whatu Ora frequently advertise RN positions with sponsorship, emphasizing career development and supportive work environments.
Registered nurse job listings highlight opportunities in Auckland, Christchurch, and regional areas like Hokitika. For example, a Bupa listing in Auckland City seeks RNs to lead caregiver teams and provide person-centered care, with visa sponsorship available for the right candidates. Salaries for RNs typically range from NZD 35 to NZD 45 per hour, with additional benefits like professional training and relocation support for international hires.
To work as an RN in New Zealand, foreigners must be registered with the Nursing Council of New Zealand, which requires an internationally recognized nursing qualification and proof of English proficiency (e.g., IELTS or OET). The visa sponsorship process for RNs often involves the AEWV or the Green List, which offers a fast track to residency for high-demand occupations. Foreign nurses should ensure their qualifications are assessed by NZQA and prepare for a rigorous registration process.
The demand for RNs is driven by New Zealand’s aging population and the need for specialized care in areas like psychogeriatrics and mental health. Foreigners with experience in these fields are particularly valued, as they fill critical gaps in the workforce. By securing a sponsored RN role, international nurses can build a rewarding career while contributing to New Zealand’s healthcare system.
Support Worker Roles
Support Workers provide assistance to individuals with intellectual disabilities, mental health challenges, or physical impairments, helping them live independently in community settings. These roles are in high demand, with organizations like The Pact Group and Huria Trust offering visa sponsorship for qualified candidates. Support Workers focus on empowering clients through daily activities, social engagement, and personalized care plans.
Recent job listings, such as a July 2025 posting from The Pact Group in Wellington, highlight full-time Support Worker roles in mental health residential services, with visa sponsorship available for candidates with at least 12 months of valid work visa eligibility. Salaries range from NZD 24 to NZD 30 per hour, with benefits like flexible schedules and ongoing training. These roles often require a Level 3 or 4 Health and Wellbeing qualification or equivalent experience.
Visa sponsorship for Support Workers is typically offered through the AEWV, with employers seeking candidates who demonstrate empathy, teamwork, and cultural competence. Foreigners can stand out by gaining relevant experience through part-time or casual roles while in New Zealand, as this shows adaptability to the local care environment. The role’s focus on community integration makes it ideal for those passionate about social impact.
Support Worker roles are available across New Zealand, with significant opportunities in regions like Nelson, Northland, and Upper Hutt. The inclusive work culture and emphasis on professional development make these positions attractive for foreigners seeking a stable and fulfilling career. With visa sponsorship, Support Workers can transition to long-term residency while making a difference in their communities.
Current Care Job Listings in New Zealand
The New Zealand care job market is vibrant, with numerous opportunities for foreigners seeking visa sponsorship. Below is a curated list of currently available care jobs, based on recent data from trusted sources like SEEK, Indeed, and Glassdoor.
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Caregiver – Ryman Healthcare (Christchurch, Invercargill)
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Description: Ryman Healthcare is seeking caregivers for their Diana Isaac Retirement Village in Christchurch and other facilities in Invercargill. Responsibilities include personal care, meal assistance, and following individual care plans. Visa sponsorship is available for candidates with a Level 3 or 4 Health and Wellbeing certificate or equivalent experience.
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Salary: NZD 26–32 per hour, with benefits like free uniforms and 60+ Ryman discounts.
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Requirements: Compassionate attitude, teamwork skills, and eligibility for an AEWV. Candidates must complete relevant unit standards within 18 months.
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Source: SEEK,
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Healthcare Assistant – Health New Zealand – Te Whatu Ora (Counties Manukau)
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Description: Health New Zealand is hiring HCAs for their 22-bed inpatient medicine ward at Middlemore Hospital. The role involves supporting nurses with patient care and monitoring. Visa sponsorship is offered for candidates with NZ Level 3 HCA certification or equivalent.
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Salary: NZD 25–30 per hour, with professional development opportunities.
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Requirements: NZ residency or valid work visa, cultural sensitivity, and a commitment to health equity for Māori and Pacific communities.
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Source: Indeed,
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Registered Nurse – Bupa (Auckland City)
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Description: Bupa is recruiting RNs to lead caregiver teams and provide clinical care in Auckland City care homes. Visa sponsorship is available for candidates with Nursing Council registration and specialist skills like wound care.
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Salary: NZD 35–45 per hour, with in-house training and an inclusive work environment.
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Requirements: Valid nursing qualification, English proficiency (IELTS/OET), and eligibility for AEWV or Green List visa.
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Source: Indeed,
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Community Support Worker – The Pact Group (Wellington)
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Description: The Pact Group seeks full-time Support Workers for mental health residential services in Wellington. Responsibilities include supporting clients with daily routines and independence. Visa sponsorship is available for candidates with a valid work visa for at least 12 months.
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Salary: NZD 24–30 per hour, with flexible hours and training opportunities.
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Requirements: Level 3 or 4 Health and Wellbeing qualification or equivalent, empathy, and teamwork skills.
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Source: SEEK
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Care Partner – Ultimate Care Madison (Christchurch)
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Description: Ultimate Care Madison is hiring Care Partners (HCAs) for part-time roles in Christchurch, focusing on high-quality personal care. Visa sponsorship is available for experienced candidates with interRAI training or equivalent qualifications.
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Salary: NZD 25–30 per hour, with career development and shift allowances.
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Requirements: NZQA-assessed qualifications, valid work visa, and a passion for aged care.
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Source: SEEK
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These listings represent a snapshot of the care job market with opportunities spanning major cities and regional areas. Foreigners should regularly check platforms like SEEK, Indeed, and LinkedIn for new postings, as the market is dynamic and new roles are added daily. To optimize applications, candidates should tailor their CVs to highlight relevant qualifications, experience, and cultural fit, ensuring alignment with employer expectations.
Benefits of Working in New Zealand’s Care Sector
Working in New Zealand’s care sector offers numerous benefits beyond competitive salaries and visa sponsorship. These include:
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Career Growth: Employers like Bupa and Ryman Healthcare provide extensive training and development programs, enabling career progression from caregiver to clinical or managerial roles.
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Work-Life Balance: Flexible schedules, including part-time and shift-based roles, allow workers to balance professional and personal commitments.
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Cultural Enrichment: New Zealand’s multicultural environment offers opportunities to engage with diverse communities, enhancing personal and professional growth.
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Residency Pathways: The Care Workforce Work to Residence Visa and Green List provide clear routes to permanent residency, offering long-term stability.
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High Quality of Life: New Zealand’s safe environment, excellent healthcare, and natural beauty make it an ideal place to live and work.
These benefits make care jobs in New Zealand a rewarding choice for foreigners, combining professional fulfillment with lifestyle advantages.
Conclusion
Care jobs in New Zealand for foreigners with visa sponsorship offer a unique opportunity to build a rewarding career while experiencing life in a beautiful and progressive country. From caregivers and healthcare assistants to registered nurses and support workers, the demand for skilled professionals is strong, driven by an aging population and workforce shortages. Visa sponsorship through the AEWV, Care Workforce Work to Residence Visa, and Green List provides accessible pathways for international workers, with many employers offering competitive salaries, training, and residency opportunities.
For those ready to make a difference in the lives of others while building a future in a vibrant country, the care sector awaits. For further assistance, check Immigration New Zealand’s website for visa details or contact accredited employers directly to explore opportunities. Start your journey today and join New Zealand’s thriving care workforce!
