Help people regain independence in daily life following injury, illness or disability.
Talk to a licensed NZ immigration adviser about your Occupational Therapist visa pathway.
Get Free Assessment →This is an ANZSCO Skill Level 3 occupation, qualifying for an Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) with up to 5 years duration. After 2 years of NZ work experience you can apply for Skilled Migrant Category residence.
Occupational Therapists help people of all ages regain independence in daily life following injury, illness, disability, or mental health conditions. In New Zealand, OTs work across district hospitals, disability support services, mental health and addiction services, ACC rehabilitation, aged-care residential facilities, and community settings. Health NZ (Te Whatu Ora) and Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC) are among the largest employers. Green List Tier 2 status allows qualified OTs to work in NZ on an Accredited Employer Work Visa and apply for Skilled Migrant Category residence after two years. New Zealand's ACC rehabilitation system creates particularly strong demand for OTs specialising in workplace and injury rehabilitation.
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. Occupational Therapist (ANZSCO 252299) is Green List Tier 2 — Work to Residence. Qualified OTs work in NZ for 2 years on an AEWV, then apply for Skilled Migrant Category residence.
NZ's Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC) funds rehabilitation for workplace injuries, motor vehicle accidents, and treatment injuries. OTs working in ACC rehabilitation assess functional capacity, design return-to-work programmes, and provide home modification recommendations. It's a significant part of the NZ OT job market.
Typically 3.5–4.5 years: OTBNZ registration (3–5 months) + job offer + AEWV (3–5 months) + 2 years work + SMC residence application (12–18 months).
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