Your Move to New Zealand Just Got Easier: What the Removal of the CAOP Exam Means for UK Pharmacists
If you’ve been thinking about moving to New Zealand to continue your pharmacy career, there’s some exciting news.
The Pharmacy Council of New Zealand has approved changes that remove the Competency Assessment of Overseas Pharmacists (CAOP) examination requirement from the Comparable Pathway for eligible overseas-qualified pharmacists. Once the regulatory changes are formally implemented, this will make the registration process simpler, quicker and less expensive for many UK pharmacists.
Combined with strong demand for pharmacists, competitive salaries and exceptional lifestyle opportunities, there has never been a better time to consider making the move.
In this guide, we’ll explain what has changed, what it means for UK pharmacists and why New Zealand continues to be one of the world’s most attractive destinations for community pharmacy professionals.
What Has Changed?
Historically, many UK pharmacists looking to register in New Zealand were required to complete the Competency Assessment of Overseas Pharmacists (CAOP) examination before becoming eligible to practise.
The Pharmacy Council has now approved changes that remove this examination requirement for pharmacists applying through the Comparable Pathway, recognising that pharmacists from comparable healthcare systems already possess many of the competencies required to practise safely in New Zealand.
While applicants will still need to satisfy the Pharmacy Council’s registration requirements, removing the CAOP examination represents one of the biggest changes to New Zealand pharmacist registration in recent years.
For many pharmacists, this means:
- A simpler registration pathway
- Lower overall costs
- Less time spent preparing for additional examinations
- A quicker route towards beginning a pharmacy career in New Zealand
Why This Matters for UK Pharmacists
The UK and New Zealand share many similarities in community pharmacy practice.
As a result, UK pharmacists are highly regarded by New Zealand employers for their clinical knowledge, communication skills and patient-centred approach.
With one of the biggest barriers to registration being removed, UK pharmacists now have an even more accessible pathway to living and working in New Zealand.
If you’ve previously considered relocating but were discouraged by the additional examination process, now may be the perfect time to revisit your plans.
Do You Still Need to Register?
Yes.
Although the CAOP examination requirement is being removed, pharmacists must still complete the Pharmacy Council’s registration process before practising in New Zealand.
This may include meeting eligibility requirements under the Comparable Pathway, providing evidence of qualifications and registration, meeting English language requirements where applicable, and completing any remaining registration steps required by the Pharmacy Council.
Working with an experienced international recruitment partner, like Prospect Health. can make this process significantly easier, helping you understand the requirements and guiding you through each stage.
How Prospect Health Can Help
At Prospect Health, we specialise in helping healthcare professionals build rewarding international careers.
Our team can support you with:
- Finding the right pharmacy opportunities
- Understanding the New Zealand registration process
- Guidance on visas and relocation
- Interview preparation
- Salary advice
- Ongoing support throughout your move
Whether you’re actively planning your move or simply exploring your options, we’re here to help.
Ready to Explore Your Options?
With the CAOP examination requirement being removed under the Comparable Pathway, moving to New Zealand has never been more accessible for many UK pharmacists.
Combined with excellent salaries, relocation support, genuine career progression and the potential to work towards pharmacy ownership, there has never been a better time to consider taking the next step.
If you’d like to find out more about current pharmacist opportunities across New Zealand, contact Prospect Health today for a confidential conversation with one of our specialist consultants.
To find out more, get in touch with Ashley today on 01423 850 427, or email [email protected] to discuss current opportunities and take the first step towards your Pharmacist career in New Zealand.
Next Up: What Are the Licensing Options to Work as a UK Pharmacist in New Zealand?
New Zealand continues to be a popular destination for UK-trained pharmacists thanks to its excellent work-life balance, excellent career opportunities, strong healthcare system, and demand for healthcare professionals.
If you’re considering making the move, it’s important to understand the registration and visa requirements before you start applying for jobs.
Talk to a specialist
Ashley Garner
Director of Primary Care, Pharmacy, Optical & Audiology and Dental – UK, Australia, Canada & New Zealand
I have spent over 25 years working in healthcare recruitment spanning the primary care, pharmacy, optical & audiology, dental, veterinary, disability and education sectors. Currently focused on delivering ‘Total Workforce Solutions’, including permanent, locum, contract and contingent staffing to our partner clients across the UK, Australia, Canada and New Zealand.