In 2025, demand for health care assistant jobs in New Zealand for foreigners with visa sponsorship is higher than ever. The country’s healthcare system faces a growing shortage of workers, especially in aged care facilities and disability support services, leaving many employers actively recruiting overseas talent. For foreigners looking to build a secure career abroad, this creates a unique window of opportunity.
The challenge is that while opportunities are plentiful, navigating the requirements can feel overwhelming. From understanding which visas are available to knowing what qualifications employers expect, many applicants struggle to find reliable information. Yet those who prepare well can secure not only a stable job but also a pathway to long-term residency in one of the world’s most welcoming countries.
Visa sponsorship in new Zealand guide
This guide breaks down everything you need to know about finding and applying for sponsored healthcare assistant roles in New Zealand in 2025 — including salary expectations, visa pathways, and tips for standing out in a competitive job market. If you’ve been waiting for the right time to make the move, this could be your chance.
The need for healthcare assistants in New Zealand has never been greater. According to the New Zealand Ministry of Health, the country’s population is aging rapidly — by 2030, nearly 1 in 5 New Zealanders will be over the age of 65. This demographic shift is driving an urgent need for aged-care services, rest homes, and disability support, where healthcare assistants play a critical frontline role.
In addition, Immigration New Zealand has identified healthcare assistants as part of the country’s ongoing skill shortages. Employers who cannot fill positions locally are increasingly turning to international recruitment, offering visa sponsorship to attract qualified foreigners.
Recent workforce reports show that aged-care facilities alone require 4,000–5,000 new healthcare workers each year to meet demand. Yet local training pipelines are not keeping up, leaving many positions vacant.
Globally, the World Health Organization (WHO) predicts a shortfall of nearly 10 million health and social care workers by 2030, with developed countries like New Zealand competing for skilled labor. For foreigners seeking employment abroad, this means New Zealand not only offers job stability but also government-backed pathways to long-term residence.
Overview of the Health Care Assistant Role & Key Responsibilities
A health care assistant (HCA) is a vital member of New Zealand’s healthcare workforce. While nurses and doctors provide medical care, HCAs ensure patients receive day-to-day support that improves their comfort, dignity, and quality of life. This makes the role especially important in aged care, hospitals, rest homes, and disability services.
What the Role Involves
Healthcare assistants typically work under the supervision of registered nurses and support staff in hospitals, residential care facilities, and private homes. The focus is on hands-on patient care rather than medical decision-making.
Key Responsibilities of a Health Care Assistant
- Assisting patients with personal care (bathing, dressing, grooming).
- Supporting mobility, helping patients walk, transfer, or use wheelchairs safely.
- Feeding assistance, including meal preparation and monitoring nutritional needs.
- Observing and recording vital signs (temperature, pulse, blood pressure) under nurse guidance.
- Maintaining clean, safe environments in patient rooms and communal areas.
- Providing companionship and emotional support to patients.
- Assisting with rehabilitation exercises or daily routines.
- Reporting changes in a patient’s condition to nursing staff promptly.
Tips to work in New Zealand
In New Zealand, employers value empathy, patience, and cultural awareness as much as formal training. For foreigners, demonstrating strong soft skills can often make up for limited local work experience.
Eligibility, Requirements/Qualifications for Health Care Assistant Jobs in New Zealand
Foreigners aiming to secure health care assistant jobs in New Zealand with visa sponsorship must meet both employer expectations and immigration requirements. While the role is often considered entry-level, there are clear standards to ensure workers can provide safe, compassionate, and professional care.
Basic Eligibility Criteria
- A valid job offer from an accredited New Zealand employer willing to provide sponsorship.
- Meeting health and character checks required by Immigration New Zealand (medical exam, police clearance).
- English language proficiency — in some cases, proof via IELTS (score of 5.5 or above) or equivalent may be needed.
Qualifications & Certifications
- Preferred: New Zealand Certificate in Health and Wellbeing (Level 3 or 4).
- Alternative: Relevant overseas healthcare training, caregiver experience, or nursing aide background.
Many employers provide on-the-job training to help overseas workers achieve the required Level 3 or 4 certification after arrival.
Skills Employers Value
- Compassion and empathy for elderly and vulnerable patients.
- Good communication and teamwork skills.
- Physical fitness to assist with mobility and daily care.
- Reliability, patience, and cultural sensitivity.
Salary, Benefits, or Income Potential for Health Care Assistants in New Zealand
One of the main reasons foreigners are drawn to health care assistant jobs in New Zealand with visa sponsorship is the combination of fair pay, strong worker protections, and additional benefits. Salaries are standardized across the industry, with rates set by agreements between the government, unions, and healthcare employers.
Average Salary Ranges (2025)
Experience Level
Hourly Pay (NZD)
Approx. Annual Salary (Full-Time)
Entry-level (no NZ qualification)
$23 – $26
$47,800 – $54,000
Level 3 Certificate holder
$26 – $28
$54,000 – $58,200
Level 4 Certificate holder / Experienced HCA
$28 – $30+
$58,200 – $62,400+
Additional Benefits for Sponsored Workers
- Visa sponsorship and potential pathways to permanent residency.
- Paid training to achieve Level 3 or 4 New Zealand Certificates in Health & Wellbeing.
- Shift allowances for night and weekend work.
- Healthcare coverage under New Zealand’s public system.
- Paid annual leave (minimum 4 weeks) and sick leave.
- Some employers may offer relocation support, including flight reimbursement or temporary housing.
- Opportunities for career progression — HCAs can move into senior care roles, nursing support, or management.
Step-by-Step Process to Apply for Health Care Assistant Jobs in New Zealand
Finding and securing health care assistant jobs in New Zealand with visa sponsorship can feel complex, but breaking it into steps makes the process much easier. Here’s a simple roadmap:
1. Research Accredited Employers
Start by identifying employers accredited by Immigration New Zealand (INZ). Only accredited employers can offer visa sponsorship. Job boards like SEEK, TradeMe, Geneva Healthcare, and CareJobz often list sponsorship roles.
2. Prepare a New Zealand-Style CV
Adapt your CV to local standards: 2–3 pages, clearly listing skills, work history, caregiving experience, and references. Keep it simple, factual, and easy to scan.
3. Apply for Jobs Online
Submit applications directly through employer websites or job portals. Tailor your cover letter to highlight compassion, teamwork, and adaptability — traits highly valued in NZ healthcare.
4. Attend Virtual or In-Person Interviews
Many employers conduct video interviews. Be ready to discuss your caregiving experience, ability to adapt culturally, and willingness to work shifts.
5. Secure a Job Offer with Sponsorship
If selected, your employer will issue an official job offer and initiate the visa sponsorship process with Immigration NZ.
6. Apply for the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)
With your job offer in hand, apply for the AEWV online. You’ll need:
- Passport
- Job offer letter
- Police clearance certificate
- Medical examination results
7. Relocate and Begin Training
Once your visa is approved, relocate to New Zealand. Many employers provide orientation and training to help you gain the Health & Wellbeing Level 3 or 4 certificate if you don’t already hold one.
8. Pathway to Residency
After gaining local experience, you may become eligible for residency pathways, especially if working in aged care under the Green List.
Top Employers, Agencies, or Platforms
If you’re searching for health care assistant jobs in New Zealand with visa sponsorship, knowing where to look is half the battle. Here are trusted employers, recruitment agencies, and platforms that regularly advertise roles for foreigners:
- SEEK New Zealand – argest job portal, includes HCA roles with visa sponsorship
- TradeMe Jobs – local job site popular with aged-care facilities
- CareJobz Recruitment – specialist healthcare recruiter for New Zealand
- Geneva Healthcare –
- major employer in aged care, disability, and community support
- District Health Boards (DHBs)
- official public healthcare employers
- Oceania Healthcare & Ryman Healthcare – large aged-care providers with frequent openings.
Tip:
When searching, use keywords like “visa sponsorship” or “accredited employer” to filter the right opportunities.
How to Apply or Get Started
Landing a sponsored role requires preparation. Here are some insider tips to increase your chances of success:
1. Prepare Your Documents Early – Passport, updated CV, references, police clearance, and medical certificates.
2. Highlight Transferable Skills – Even informal caregiving (family support) counts. Emphasize compassion, reliability, and communication.
3. Apply to Accredited Employers – Always check if the employer is on Immigration NZ’s accredited list.
4. Tailor Every Application – Mention why you want to work in New Zealand and how you’ll contribute to patient care.
5. Practice Interview Scenarios – Employers value cultural fit, so be ready to answer situational questions about teamwork, empathy, and patient dignity.
6. Build an Online Profile – LinkedIn and SEEK profiles make you more visible to recruiters searching for international candidates.
Living, Working, or Lifestyle Impact
Moving to New Zealand for work isn’t just a career decision — it’s a lifestyle change. Here’s what to expect:
- Cost of Living: Rent in Auckland averages NZD \$500–\$650 per week for a one-bedroom apartment, while smaller cities like Hamilton or Dunedin are more affordable at NZD \$350–\$500.
- Healthcare Access: Workers on visas can access New Zealand’s public healthcare system, which covers most basic medical needs.
- Work-Life Balance: A typical HCA works 40 hours per week, with overtime options. Many employers emphasize a balance of rest and family time.
- Cultural Experience: New Zealand embraces diversity, with healthcare workplaces valuing cultural awareness, especially in supporting Māori and Pasifika communities.
- Growth Potential: With further training, HCAs can progress into senior caregiver, nursing support, or management roles, or use the experience as a stepping stone toward nursing.
Compared to many countries, New Zealand offers a safer environment, stronger worker protections, and faster residency pathways for healthcare staff.
FAQs
1. Do health care assistants in New Zealand get visa sponsorship?
Yes. Many aged-care employers are accredited to sponsor foreign workers under the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV).
2. What is the salary for a healthcare assistant in New Zealand?
On average, HCAs earn NZD \$23–\$30 per hour, depending on experience and qualifications.
3. Do I need prior experience to get hired?
Not always. Employers may accept applicants with caregiving experience (formal or informal) and provide training toward New Zealand’s Level 3–4 certificates.
4. Can healthcare assistant jobs lead to residency?
Yes. Many roles qualify under New Zealand’s Green List pathways, offering residency opportunities after 2 years of work.
5. What is the cost of living for healthcare assistants in New Zealand?
It varies by city, but most workers spend 30–40% of their salary on rent, with lower costs in smaller towns compared to Auckland or Wellington.
Conclusion
In 2025, health care assistant jobs in New Zealand for foreigners with visa sponsorship represent one of the most accessible and rewarding career opportunities abroad. With competitive wages, clear immigration pathways, and a welcoming healthcare culture, New Zealand stands out as an ideal destination for compassionate and hardworking individuals.
If you’re serious about making the move, start preparing your documents, polish your CV to New Zealand standards, and apply to accredited employers offering sponsorship. The demand is real, and the timing has never been better.