NZ Welcomes Overseas-Trained Doctors Through New Programme to Boost GP Access

In a significant move to alleviate persistent healthcare workforce shortages, especially in primary and rural care, the New Zealand Government’s new training programme for overseas-trained doctors has received an overwhelming response. A total of 184 expressions of interest were submitted for just 100 spots, underscoring the immense pool of untapped medical talent already present within the country.

Health Minister Simeon Brown confirmed the figures, stating that the programme, which was officially announced in March 2025, is already delivering on its promise to streamline the pathway for qualified international doctors eager to contribute to New Zealand’s health system.

“New Zealand needs more doctors – particularly in primary and rural healthcare settings – and this Government is taking action to make that happen,” Minister Brown said.

Programme Launches with Clear Goals and Strong Start

The two-year, Government-funded programme is designed to help overseas-trained doctors obtain New Zealand registration, with an emphasis on those seeking general practice roles. This not only fills critical gaps in healthcare delivery but also addresses long-standing structural barriers that have sidelined many capable professionals already living in the country.

The programme's first cohort of 10 doctors will begin clinical placements in Waikato this July. Health New Zealand is actively working to match remaining candidates to suitable placements across the country, in collaboration with regional health districts and primary care providers.

Solving a Bottleneck: Clinical Pathways for International Talent

Minister Brown pointed out that many overseas-trained doctors in New Zealand are fully qualified and ready to work but have been hindered by a lack of structured training opportunities that would allow them to enter the workforce. This programme aims to close that gap by creating a supported clinical training pathway.

“It makes no sense that overseas-trained doctors already living here, ready and willing to work in primary care, are held back simply due to a lack of supported clinical training opportunities. We are changing that,” Brown stated.

He also confirmed that he has requested additional advice from Health New Zealand on how to create interim practice opportunities for doctors who have already passed the New Zealand Registration Examination (NZREX). These doctors could potentially begin practising under limited scopes while awaiting general practice training placements — a move that could further reduce bottlenecks and provide immediate healthcare relief in underserved communities.

High Interest Reflects Urgent Needs and Promising Supply

The high number of applicants — nearly double the number of available spots — reflects both the severity of the doctor shortage and the enthusiasm among internationally trained physicians to serve New Zealand’s health needs. Many applicants are already residing in the country and are seeking a clear, credible pathway into general practice.

“This strong response shows the scale of untapped potential in New Zealand,” said Brown. “These doctors are eager to work where they are most needed – and this Government is opening the door for them to do so.”

A Broader Commitment to Healthcare Reform

This initiative is one part of a broader healthcare reform plan by the coalition Government, aimed at enhancing the availability and quality of care, especially in rural and regional areas. The focus remains on reducing wait times, expanding training pathways, and improving retention through supportive career development policies.

Minister Brown reaffirmed that the programme is not just a short-term fix but a sustainable mechanism to replenish the general practitioner pipeline and deliver consistent care across the country.

“By recognising and integrating the skills of doctors already here, we’re making smart use of our resources and ensuring New Zealanders can get timely access to healthcare — regardless of where they live,” he concluded.