New exam spots open up for internationally-trained doctors.
Health Minister Dr Shane Reti has welcomed an increase in New Zealand registration exams (NZREX) places, which will support dozens of internationally-trained doctors already in the country. The Medical Council has increased capacity to provide up to 180 international candidates with exam spots over the course of 2025.
According to Dr Reti, lack of exam spots and clinical placements have been barriers to employment for these doctors. "These medical professionals shouldn't have been fighting for places as if they were lining up for a pop concert," he said. The Health Minister has instructed Health New Zealand to move swiftly to secure clinical placements needed for potential employment.
The Medical Council will now hold three exam dates in March, June, and September 2025, up from two in 2024. This is expected to provide opportunities for internationally-trained doctors who have been waiting to contribute to New Zealand's health system. Dr Reti thanked the Medical Council for its collaboration in addressing the issue.
Health New Zealand has assured that it will organize placements for those who pass the exams, especially for the NZREX GP pilot which has been successful. The skills of these international doctors will complement those of New Zealand-trained doctors already delivering great care to Kiwis. Further details about the exam dates and process are available on the Medical Council's website.