Veterinarians are on the NZ Green List with fast-track residence. NZVB qualification assessment + NZVA registration required. NZD 90,000 median salary. 2+ years post-graduation clinical experience minimum.
Demand for migrant veterinarians in New Zealand has grown as the country works to fill veterinary positions. The veterinarian profession is on the Green List, providing a fast-track pathway to residence.
Median wage for veterinarians in NZ: NZD 90,000 per year. Experienced professionals earn more.
Overseas qualifications must be assessed by the NZVB to ensure they are comparable to a New Zealand qualification. If found comparable, you can register with the NZVA and practise in NZ.
The assessment process is structured and well-documented — start the NZVB process early in your immigration planning.
As a Green List occupation, veterinarians have direct residence pathway access. The standard sequence:
Confirm your specific qualification meets NZVB equivalence standards before lodging — competence assessment outcomes shape which scope of practice you can register under, which in turn shapes which employers can hire you and at what level.
Last reviewed . Information may have changed since this article was reviewed. For your specific case, talk to a licensed immigration adviser.