With the UK tightening its immigration rules for international care workers, including stricter family reunification and visa renewal conditions, many are starting to look elsewhere for brighter, more stable opportunities. And if you’re thinking long-term, it might be time to turn your eyes towards the southern hemisphere.
New Zealand, often overlooked in the global care work conversation, is quickly becoming one of the most attractive destinations for qualified international healthcare professionals, especially in the aged care sector.
Not only does it offer competitive pay and a high quality of life, but it’s also actively encouraging skilled migrants to fill urgent gaps in its healthcare system. For those looking for visa-sponsored care jobs with real growth potential and a welcoming environment, New Zealand is no longer just an option. It’s a smart move.
Why New Zealand Is a Great Alternative
Visa Sponsorship Opportunities
New Zealand’s care sector has been classified as a priority for immigration, especially under the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV). Many aged care homes and health facilities are approved to sponsor foreign workers.Pathway to Residency
Some care roles are included in New Zealand’s Green List, which means eligible workers can apply for fast-tracked residency after just two years on the job.Work-Life Balance
New Zealand consistently ranks among the world’s best countries for quality of life. Shorter commutes, cleaner cities, and stunning natural beauty make it a fulfilling place to live and work.Demand Is High
With an aging population and a shortage of local caregivers, New Zealand is in urgent need of aged care workers, support workers, nurses, and health assistants — and many employers are prepared to offer visa sponsorships to fill these roles.Family-Friendly Policies
Compared to the UK’s increasingly restrictive stance, New Zealand still offers more relaxed family visa options for partners and children of care workers, depending on your visa type and employer.Eligibility: Who Can Work as a Carer in New Zealand?
To work in a care home in New Zealand, especially under a visa sponsorship, you must meet certain eligibility criteria, including:
Job Offer from an Accredited Employer
You’ll need a formal job offer from a care home that is accredited to hire foreign workers under the AEWV scheme.Relevant Experience or Qualifications
While some roles (e.g., healthcare assistants or aged care workers) don’t require formal degrees, experience in caregiving, nursing, or healthcare support is usually expected. Holding a Level 3 Certificate in Health and Wellbeing (or international equivalent) is often preferred.English Language Proficiency
A basic level of English is required. You may need to show proof of your language ability, especially if the employer requires it.Medical and Character Checks
As part of your visa application, you’ll need to pass health checks and provide police clearance certificates.No Age Limit (Within Reason)
There’s no strict upper age limit for AEWV applicants, but you must be physically able to perform caregiving tasks and meet medical requirements.Heritage HealthCare
Homecare Assistant – Long Ashton
JOB ROLE:
- Providing personal care and support to clients in their own homes, in line with their individual care plans
- Assisting clients with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, and toileting
- Preparing meals and assisting with feeding, if required
- Supporting clients with mobility and transferring, using manual handling equipment if necessary
- Administering medication to clients, in accordance with their care plan and our medication policies
- Monitoring and reporting changes in clients’ health and wellbeing to the care manager or other healthcare professionals
- Supporting clients with social activities and outings, as appropriate and agreed in their care plan
- Maintaining accurate and up-to-date records of care services provided, including daily logs and medication records
- Working collaboratively with other members of the care team to ensure that all clients receive high-quality care services
- Always adhering to health and safety policies and procedures, to ensure the safety and wellbeing of clients and colleagues
REQUIREMENTS:
- Previous experience in a care role is desirable but not essential, as full training will be provided
- A caring and compassionate nature, with a genuine desire to support and care for others
- Good communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build rapport with clients and colleagues
- The ability to work independently and use initiative, as well as part of a team
- Good problem-solving skills, with the ability to identify issues and take appropriate action
- A willingness to undertake further training and development, as required by the role
Registered Care Manager – Isleworth
JOB ROLE:
- Regulatory Compliance: Ensure adherence to CQC Registration Service Levels, Company Policies, and Regulations.
- Staff Development: Manage the appraisal, development, and supervision of all care staff.
- Operational Efficiency: Maintain an effective on-call service and oversee recruitment and training operations.
- Business Growth: Establish new care packages to meet growing business needs and support business development through networking and marketing initiatives.
REQUIREMENTS:
- Qualifications: Recognised qualification in Health and Social Care; NVQ4, RMA, or Level 5 Diploma in Leadership for Health and Social Care preferred.
- Experience: Candidates with NVQ3 actively studying towards a CQC recognised qualification are encouraged
- Skills: Strong communication, leadership, and a passion for delivering exceptional quality care.
Abi Rehabilitation HealthCare
Physiotherapist (Wellington Intensive)
Job Role:
- provision of a specialist Physiotherapy service (assessment and management) to clients presenting with acquired brain injury
- implementing and evaluating rehabilitation plans and strategies
- providing education and training to family/whānau
- contributing to outcome measures
- report writing
- ongoing training and development of our staff
Requirements:
Physiotherapist with a minimum of two years’ experience, NZ-registered with a current practicing certificate. Previous experience in neurological and brain injury rehabilitation is highly preferred, however, open to all candidates based on experience.
Dovida
Caregiver – Auckland
Job Roles:
As a Caregiver with Dovida, you’ll provide more than just support to you clients – you will become an essential part of their Circle of Care. Whether it’s assisting with daily tasks, offering companionship, or providing more complex care, you will bring kindness, respect and understanding into their home.
At Dovida, we celebrate what makes you unique and provide the resources you need to grow and thrive.
Requirements:
- Have a big heart, patience, and a desire to help improve the lives of seniors and their families.
- Be personable, compassionate, approachable, and able to build relationships.
- Must have a mobile smart phone to be able to navigate through various applications.
- Must have a valid New Zealand Full driver’s licence, your own reliable car, and have comprehensive car insurance.
Ryman Healthcare
Caregiver – Hawke’s Bay
Job Roles:
- Performing care and personal needs assistance as detailed in the care plan and under the direction of a Registered Nurse
- Observing and reporting immediately to the Registered Nurse or senior any change in a resident’s status or behaviour
- Ensuring the safety, privacy, and comfort of residents at all times
- Demonstrating care for others by understanding their needs and providing help and support
- Documenting care provided to residents objectively and in a timely manner
Requirements:
- A Level 3 Health and Wellbeing certificate or equivalent and 2 years relevant experience OR
A Level 4 Health and Wellbeing certificate or equivalent
Pro Tip: How to Increase Your Chances of Getting Sponsored
Start with Accredited Employers
New Zealand Immigration has a list of accredited employers on their official website. Always confirm that the care home you’re applying to is on this list. This makes the sponsorship process easier and legitimate.- Get the Right Qualifications
If possible, complete an online NZQA-accredited training in aged care or health and wellbeing to make your application stand out. It shows you’re committed and already aligning with New Zealand’s standards.
While the UK may be closing its doors to many care workers, New Zealand is quietly opening its arms. It’s not just offering jobs — it’s offering a chance at stability, dignity, and long-term career growth in a place where your work is truly needed and valued.
For many international carers, especially those frustrated by shifting immigration rules elsewhere, this could be the new beginning you’ve been waiting for. New Zealand is calling.
