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The benefits of the Straight to Residence Visa for Doctors
Good Together is a New Zealand based medical recruitment agency that supports international doctors with the full process of relocating to our shores. From Medical Council registration to settling in after arrival, we offer full, wrap around support to ensure that the transition for our doctors is smooth and efficient.
Obtaining a visa that allows doctors to live and work as a doctor in New Zealand is a key step in the process and the Straight to Resident Visa, introduced on 5th September 2022, is a fantastic option for those who intend to stay in NZ long term.
What is the Straight to Resident Visa?
The Straight to Resident visa is a streamlined pathway for highly skilled doctors to secure their residence status in New Zealand. Under this visa category, the process is designed to be efficient and allows eligible doctors to directly apply for residence without the need to obtain temporary work visas beforehand.
A Straight to Residence visa holder has the right to live, work and study in the country indefinitely. Visa holders will have the right to travel in and out of New Zealand for two years from the date they first arrive in the country. Application for a permanent resident visa will allow holders to travel freely after this.
What are the benefits of the Straight to Residence Visa?
The Straight to Resident Visa provides a streamlined pathway for highly skilled doctors to secure their residence status in New Zealand. Under this visa category, the process is designed to be efficient and allows eligible doctors to directly apply for residence without the need to obtain temporary work visas beforehand. This eliminates the need for constant visa renewals or uncertainty about future immigration status.
Eligible applicants can apply for this visa from both within and outside of New Zealand, either as a first visa option, or to replace an existing temporary visa. Because this visa also includes a partner and children under the age of 24 years old, the benefits extend beyond the applicant.
As a resident in New Zealand, doctors and their families gain access to a wide range of social benefits. These benefits include public healthcare, education for your children, and the opportunity to participate in various social programs and initiatives. New Zealand’s inclusive society ensures that residents can enjoy a high quality of life, fostering a welcoming environment for you and your loved ones.
Resident rights include Holders of the Straight to Resident Visa have the right to vote in general elections (after a stay of 12 months), as well as being eligible to join KiwiSaver, a voluntary, work-based retirement savings scheme.
The flexibility of this visa empowers doctors to make choices that align with their professional goals, providing a fulfilling and rewarding medical career in a country renowned for its healthcare standards. Holders of this visa can either work for an accredited employer, or they can choose to set up or purchase their own practice (so long as MCNZ requirements have been met)
Considerations for the Straight to Resident Visa
- At $4290 The Straight to Resident Work Visa is more expensive than temporary work visas
- The approximate time for Immigration to process a Straight to Resident Work Visa is around 6 weeks. A letter of eligibility for registration with the Medical Council of New Zealand (MCNZ) should ideally be received prior to submitting a visa application.
- Applicants must be aged 55 years or under at the time of application.
- Applicants must meet the English language requirement for this visa
- A temporary work visa may be more suitable depending on an applicant’s unique situation. For this reason, Good Together always recommend seeking the advice of a licensed immigration advisor such as NZ Visa Connections.
Summary
The Straight to Residence visa is an excellent opportunity for doctors to establish themselves and their families in beautiful New Zealand while enjoying the benefits of residency from the outset. At Good Together, we are committed to supporting doctors in relocating to New Zealand, leveraging our expertise and personalised approach to guide you throughout the full process of this transition.
Take the first step towards your dream of working and living in New Zealand by reaching out to Good Together today. Your future awaits in the land of stunning landscapes, friendly communities, and boundless opportunities for personal and professional fulfilment, and wellbeing.
Moana Bywater
Good Together
