Caregiving is a rewarding and respected profession in New Zealand, especially as the country’s aging population increases demand for support workers. If you’re passionate about caring for others and want to move to New Zealand, applying for a healthcare sponsorship work visa as a caregiver could be your path to a fulfilling career and even permanent residency.
This guide walks you through the steps, requirements, and key tips to secure a sponsored caregiver job and work visa in New Zealand.
✅ Why New Zealand Needs Caregivers
New Zealand’s healthcare system relies heavily on aged care and support workers to provide essential services to the elderly and people with disabilities. As more New Zealanders age, the need for compassionate, trained caregivers grows, especially in rest homes, hospitals, and home-care environments.
🔍 Visa Pathway: Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)
The Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) is the main visa route for international caregivers.
Key Requirements:
- A full-time job offer (30+ hours/week) from a government-accredited employer
- Minimum pay at the median wage or higher (NZD $29.66/hour as of 2024)
- Evidence of your skills, experience, or qualifications
- Meet health and character requirements
📋 Step-by-Step Guide to Getting a Caregiver Sponsorship
1. Get Qualified (If Needed)
While some employers offer on-the-job training, having a formal caregiving qualification will boost your chances. Consider:
- New Zealand Certificate in Health & Wellbeing – Level 3 or 4
- Equivalent overseas qualifications in elderly care, nursing, or healthcare
2. Build Relevant Experience
Work experience in caring for the elderly or disabled—whether in hospitals, homes, or community centers—is highly valued.
3. Search for Sponsoring Employers
You’ll need a job offer from a New Zealand employer accredited by Immigration NZ.
Where to find caregiver jobs with sponsorship:
- Seek NZ
- MyCare
- Trade Me Jobs
- CareJobz
- Agencies like Geneva Healthcare, Summerset, Ryman Healthcare, Heritage Lifecare
Look for listings that mention “visa sponsorship” or “AEWV approved” in the job description.
4. Apply for the AEWV
Once you have a job offer:
- Your employer starts the process by proving the job is genuine
- You complete your AEWV application online via Immigration NZ
📄 Documents You’ll Need
- Passport
- Job offer and employment agreement
- Police clearance from home and previous countries
- Medical and chest x-ray certificates
- Proof of caregiving qualifications or experience
- English language test results (if asked)
💰 Pay and Benefits
Caregiver salaries in NZ typically range from NZD $26 to $30/hour, with some offering:
- Free or subsidized housing
- Relocation support
- Paid training and development
🏡 Pathway to Residency
Caregivers can become eligible for residency through:
- Skilled Migrant Category, if your pay and role meet the threshold
- Green List Work to Residence (if caregiving roles are added or included in future updates)
- 2+ years of work in aged care may count toward residency applications
⚠️ Pro Tips for Success
- Use only trusted job boards and agencies
- Customize your CV to highlight caregiving skills and experience
- Make sure the employer is Immigration NZ-accredited:
👉 Check here - Be honest in all your documentation and visa forms
- Keep learning—upskilling can lead to better jobs and faster residency paths
📝 Final Words
If you’re a caring, responsible person with a heart for helping others, becoming a caregiver in New Zealand is a fantastic opportunity. With visa sponsorships available, you can build a stable career, enjoy life in a beautiful country, and make a real difference in people’s lives.
👉 Start your journey here:
Apply for AEWV – Immigration NZ