The Philippine Embassy in New Zealand has issued a warning to Filipino nurses considering moving to the country for work, advising them to exercise “great caution” due to the limited employment opportunities currently available for foreign nurses.
In a recent social media post, the embassy highlighted concerns about individuals and agencies facilitating the entry of foreign nurses on Visitor Visas to take programs like the Comprehensive Assessment Program (CAP) or the Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) for nurses. These nurses are later expected to apply for registration with the Nursing Council of New Zealand (NCNZ).
The embassy stressed that some Internationally Qualified Nurses (IQNs) who entered New Zealand on Visitor Visas were forced to leave the country after their visas expired, as they were unable to secure jobs.
Filipino nurses are advised to secure legitimate job offers, verified contracts, and proper work visas before leaving the Philippines. Those needing assistance can reach out to the Philippine Embassy or the Philippine Migrant Workers Office in New Zealand.