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Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)

New Zealand's primary work visa for skilled migrants with an offer from an accredited employer. Most-used work pathway, with substantial 2025 reforms affecting wage testing, visa duration, and evidence requirements.

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Dermatologist Jobs in New Zealand

NZ has a documented shortage of dermatologists. Registration with the Medical Council of NZ + skill-shortage residence pathways. Demand is particularly strong outside main centres.

New Zealand has a well-documented shortage of dermatologists, with long wait times for specialist skin-care appointments across the country. NZ’s high UV exposure, an ageing population, and increasing awareness of skin conditions mean demand for qualified dermatologists significantly outstrips supply.

Where demand is strongest

The shortage is particularly acute outside of the main centres. Auckland and Wellington have the highest concentration of dermatologists, but regional areas often have limited or no access to specialist dermatology services. Migrant dermatologists willing to work regionally may find stronger demand and potentially faster pathways to both employment and immigration approval.

Registration

To practise as a dermatologist in New Zealand, you must register with the Medical Council of New Zealand (MCNZ).

  • Medical qualifications and specialist training are assessed against NZ standards
  • Depending on training background, registration may be granted within a defined scope of practice
  • MCNZ has specific pathways for overseas-trained specialists
  • Fellowship status from a recognised college (e.g., Australasian College of Dermatologists) can streamline the process

Visa pathway

Medical specialists, including dermatologists, are well-supported under NZ’s immigration settings. The profession appears on skill-shortage lists, and residence pathways are available for qualified specialists with job offers. The typical sequence:

  1. Begin MCNZ registration assessment (start early — it can take time)
  2. Identify employer / DHB position
  3. AEWV for the initial role
  4. Residence pathway via Green List or Skilled Migrant Category

Salaries for dermatologists in NZ are competitive, reflecting the high demand.

Practical next step

Coordinate MCNZ registration with your immigration application timeline. Registration outcomes shape which scope of practice you can apply for, which in turn shapes which employers can hire you and at what level — getting the sequencing right avoids costly back-tracking.

Last reviewed . Information may have changed since this article was reviewed. For your specific case, talk to a licensed immigration adviser.