International nurses can apply for New Zealand’s CAP funding!

International Nurses Can Apply for New Zealand’s CAP Funding!

Internationally Qualified Nurses (IQNs) who are required to complete a Competency Assessment Programme (CAP) for Nursing registration in New Zealand can now avail of the IQN’s CAP Fund. This fund, established to reduce costs for overseas nurses, will help make New Zealand a more attractive destination in today’s competitive international market where nurses are in great demand.  

In order to work as a nurse in New Zealand, IQNs must meet the Nursing Council of New Zealand (NCNZ) standards. Their nursing qualifications will be assessed and compared against New Zealand programme standards. The Council may deem that an overseas nurse must complete a CAP to demonstrate their competence to practise in New Zealand, before gaining registration.

How can you apply for the fund?

You should register interest in the fund before you start the CAP course. Visit this link to download the IQN Registration of Interest form, and send the filled form to nursingcontracts@tas.health.nz. You will then receive an email with additional information.

Documentation required

The CAP costs will be reimbursed if found eligible when you have completed your course. You will have to provide evidence of the following:

• Successful completion of a Competence Assessment Programme (CAP) offered by a provider accredited by the NCNZ.
• Registration from the NCNZ.
• A confirmed offer of employment in a direct patient-facing role, such as in hospitals, aged care, GP practices or mental health and addictions.
• Required work visa to work in New Zealand.
• Confirmation of a bonding agreement with the employer for up to two years.

What funding can you expect?

The Internationally Qualified Nurses CAP Fund applies to CAPs that begin from 1 August 2022, and will provide financial assistance. The costs of a CAP offered by providers accredited by NCNZ will be reduced. 

You can avail of a maximum amount of up to NZ$ 10,000 per applicant.

This funding will be prioritised for nurses who have secured full-time employment. For those who are intending to work part-time, pro-rated financial assistance based on the work hours will be provided. 

For example, if an overseas nurse undertakes a CAP at the cost of NZ $8,000 and is working 20 hours a week, the amount they can claim is NZ$ 4,000.

If you are an international nurse seeking employment in other areas of nursing, such as policy, education/training, corporate or administration, you will not be eligible to apply for this fund. Only nurses seeking patient-facing roles can apply. 

New Zealand nurses based overseas

Note that nurses based overseas who want to return to work in New Zealand are not required to undertake the CAP, and therefore are not eligible for this fund. 

Such New Zealand nurses who want to return to nursing can apply to get financial support from the Return to Nursing Workforce Support Fund. This fund is also available to the following:

• Overseas nurses working in New Zealand as a Health Care Assistant/Support workers for an aged residential care provider,
• Te Whatu Ora or NGO, who intend to work for the employer as an Enrolled or Registered Nurse. 

Need to know more?

To know more about the Internationally Qualified Nurses Fund and the Return to Nursing Workforce Support Fund, please connect with an MWT Education Counsellor today!