Provide antenatal, intrapartum, and postnatal care to women and newborns across NZ.
Talk to a licensed NZ immigration adviser about your Midwife visa pathway.
Get Free Assessment →This occupation qualifies for direct New Zealand residence. With a job offer from an accredited employer and the right qualifications, you can apply for residence immediately — no need to wait two years.
Midwives in New Zealand operate as Lead Maternity Carers (LMC) — a unique autonomous model where a registered midwife serves as the primary caregiver throughout pregnancy, birth, and the first six weeks postnatal. This level of clinical autonomy is rare globally and makes NZ an attractive destination for internationally-trained midwives seeking career development. NZ faces a structural midwifery shortage, with the workforce unable to meet demand in hospitals, primary birthing units, and community LMC practices. Green List Tier 1 status allows internationally-trained midwives with NZ registration to apply for residence directly upon securing a job offer with an accredited employer — no two-year wait required.
Salaries are based on NZ market data. Regional and rural positions may offer allowances, relocation support, and retention bonuses in addition to base salary.
Source: Immigration NZ Operational Manual (WA3.16) — updated 9 March 2026
Yes. Midwife (ANZSCO 254411) is Green List Tier 1 — Straight to Residence. Eligible midwives with NZ registration and a job offer from an accredited employer can apply for residence directly.
In NZ, a registered midwife can be the sole primary caregiver throughout pregnancy, birth, and six weeks postnatal. This autonomous LMC role is funded by the government and provides greater clinical independence than most other countries offer.
Yes. Your partner and dependent children are included in your Green List residence application at no additional processing fee. Your partner can work and children can attend school.
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Speak with a licensed NZ immigration adviser. We'll review your qualifications, registration requirements, and visa options — no obligation.