Are you a healthcare professional looking to earn over £100,000 annually while enjoying a high quality of life in a beautiful country?
New Zealand might just be the perfect destination for your next career move.
With a growing demand for skilled medical workers, the country offers high-paying healthcare jobs with full visa sponsorship, making it easier than ever to relocate and build a prosperous future.
In this article, we’ll explore the top healthcare roles in New Zealand that offer six-figure salaries, explain how to get visa sponsorship, and list the best places to apply right now.
Why Work in New Zealand’s Healthcare Sector?
New Zealand’s healthcare industry is one of the most in-demand and well-funded sectors in the country. With an aging population, increasing chronic diseases, and a shortage of skilled professionals, the government has prioritized hiring overseas medical workers.
- High Salaries: Many healthcare roles offer £100,000+ (NZD $200,000+) per year.
- Free or Subsidized Healthcare: For residents and workers.
- Work-Life Balance: 40-hour work weeks, with generous vacation time.
- Natural Beauty: World-class beaches, mountains, and outdoor activities.
- Visa Sponsorship: Immigration-friendly policies for skilled healthcare workers.
Top £100,000+ Healthcare Jobs in New Zealand with Visa Sponsorship
Let’s take a closer look at the most lucrative healthcare jobs that also offer visa support in New Zealand.
1. General Practitioners (GPs)
Average Salary: £105,000 – £160,000 per year
Visa Sponsorship: Yes
Demand Level: Very High
General Practitioners are in critical demand throughout New Zealand, especially in rural and regional areas. If you’re a GP with a recognized medical degree and relevant experience, you can easily qualify for a work visa and even gain permanent residency.
2. Anesthetists
Average Salary: £120,000 – £180,000 per year
Visa Sponsorship: Yes
Demand Level: High
Anesthetists are among the highest-paid medical professionals in New Zealand. Due to the complexity and responsibility of the role, hospitals offer attractive packages, including visa sponsorship, relocation fees, and continuing education support.
3. Psychiatrists
Average Salary: £110,000 – £170,000 per year
Visa Sponsorship: Yes
Demand Level: High
Mental health services are expanding across New Zealand, and qualified psychiatrists are urgently needed. If you specialize in child, forensic, or adult psychiatry, you’ll find multiple job openings with sponsorship opportunities.
4. Surgeons (General, Orthopedic, Cardiac)
Average Salary: £150,000 – £250,000 per year
Visa Sponsorship: Yes
Demand Level: Moderate – High
Surgeons are in consistent demand, especially in public hospitals. Most roles come with immigration assistance, onboarding support, and competitive salaries well over the six-figure mark.
5. Registered Nurses (Specialist Roles)
Average Salary: £50,000 – £90,000+ per year
Senior Roles: £100,000+
Visa Sponsorship: Yes
Demand Level: Very High
Although base-level nursing may not hit the £100k mark, senior nurses, nurse managers, and specialist nurses (ICU, emergency, surgical) can exceed £100,000 with overtime and bonuses. New Zealand also offers fast-tracked visas for qualified nurses.
6. Radiologists
Average Salary: £110,000 – £180,000 per year
Visa Sponsorship: Yes
Demand Level: High
Radiologists are highly sought after, especially those skilled in CT, MRI, and ultrasound imaging. Hospitals offer relocation packages, housing support, and visa assistance to qualified candidates.
7. Dentists
Average Salary: £90,000 – £160,000 per year
Visa Sponsorship: Yes
Demand Level: Moderate
Dentists with international qualifications can work in both public and private sectors in New Zealand. Private practice owners often make well over £100,000 annually.
Visa Sponsorship: What You Need to Know
To work legally in New Zealand, you’ll need a visa that allows employment in your profession. Fortunately, most healthcare occupations are on the Green List or Long-Term Skill Shortage List, which makes visa approval faster and easier.
Common Visa Options:
- Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)
- Skilled Migrant Category
- Straight to Residence Visa
- Essential Skills Work Visa (for urgent roles
How to Apply for High-Paying Healthcare Jobs in New Zealand
Here’s a step-by-step guide to landing a £100k+ healthcare job in NZ:
- Get Your Qualifications Recognized
Visit: Medical Council of New Zealand or Nursing Council - Search for Accredited Employers
Use government websites or job portals like:- Workhere New Zealand
- Seek.co.nz
- Health New Zealand Careers
- Apply and Secure a Job Offer
Once you get an offer, employers will sponsor your visa application. - Apply for Your Visa
Visit: Immigration New Zealand - Relocate
Book your tickets, arrange accommodation, and prepare for your new life!
Top Cities Hiring for Healthcare Professionals
- Auckland: Best for specialists and private clinics.
- Wellington: Capital city with public hospital jobs.
- Christchurch: High demand for nurses and general physicians.
- Dunedin: Excellent for academic healthcare roles.
- Hamilton: Great for rural practice bonuses.
Benefits of Healthcare Jobs in New Zealand
Tax benefits
Low cost of living in regional areas
Free public schooling for children
Comprehensive health insurance
Path to Permanent Residency (PR)
Family visa sponsorship
Career advancement and training opportunities
