Paramedics Registration New Zealand
A guide to registering as a NZ Paramedic
Step 1: Familiarise Yourself with Paramedic Council of New Zealand (PCNZ)
Take some time to explore Paramedic Council of New Zealand’s website Overseas qualified paramedics (paramediccouncil.org.nz) to gain a better understanding of their requirements, processes, and resources available to international paramedics. This will help you make informed decisions throughout the registration journey.
Step 2: Language Proficiency
English language proficiency is a key requirement for registration. Ensure you meet the English language requirements set by PCNZ, this may involve achieving a satisfactory score in an approved English language test, such as IELTS or OET or providing evidence of a suitably long period of education which was taught in English.
Step 3: Qualification Assessment
PCNZ can treat any overseas qualification as a prescribed qualification (approved qualification) if the qualification is equivalent to, or as satisfactory as, a prescribed qualification.
PCNZ does this by requiring you to provide evidence describing recent experience in the delivery or management of paramedic services or in paramedic education and research. You are also asked to match the learning objectives of your qualification against the competence standards for paramedics.
Professional advisors will use this information to assess whether your qualification for registration is equivalent to, or as satisfactory, as an Aotearoa New Zealand approved qualification.
Step 4: Gather Required Documentation
Ensure that you are able to provide all the required documentation prior to applying for registration as an internationally qualified paramedic. The PCNZ website provides details of the required documents.
20231103 – Documents needed for registration.pdf (paramediccouncil.org.nz)
Step 5: Declarations on Fitness to Practice
You will be required to make certain declarations as part of the application process including:
- Competence
- Conduct
- Health
The PCNZ website provides further details 20240304 Guidance on making declarations to Te Kaunihera.pdf (paramediccouncil.org.nz)
Step 6: Submit Application
When you are satisfied that you are able to provide the required documentation and make the necessary declarations its time to submit your application. All the required documentation will be uploaded as part of the application process Create Account (paramediccouncil.org.nz)
Step 7: PCNZ Assessment
Once your application has been submitted, PCNZ will assess your qualifications, documentation, and criminal history check. They may request additional information or clarification if needed. Patience is key during this stage, as assessment times can vary.
Step 8: Notification of Registration Outcome
You will be notified of the registration outcome by PCNZ. If successful, congratulations! You are now a registered paramedic in New Zealand. PCNZ will provide you with your registration details, including your registration number and any conditions or limitations that may apply.
Step 9: Ongoing Requirements
Maintaining your registration requires meeting certain obligations. Stay up to date with PCNZ’s requirements, complete any mandatory continuing professional development (CPD), renew your registration annually, and inform PCNZ of any changes to your personal or professional circumstances.
Registering with PCNZ as an international nurse may seem like a complex process however always remember that the friendly team at HealthStaff Solutions International and PCNZ’s website and resources are there to support you along the way.