Pieter(40)

After twelve years as a physiotherapist in Enschede — first in a hospital, then in my own practice — I felt stuck. Insurance reimbursements were declining, administrative burden was rising and competition was fierce. When I discovered that physiotherapists were on INZ's Green List, I started seriously exploring the possibility. The Straight to Residence pathway was too good to ignore.

Registration with the Physiotherapy Board of New Zealand was the longest process. My Dutch physiotherapy degree was recognized, but I had to complete an Assessment of Clinical Competence — a mix of theory exam, case studies and a simulated consultation with actors. Additionally, an IELTS score of 7.0 per component was required. The whole process took six months and cost NZ$2,800.

My employer is a private physiotherapy practice in Remuera, one of Auckland's affluent suburbs. The client base is diverse — from rugby players with shoulder injuries to elderly patients with hip replacements. The salary is NZ$95,000 as a senior physio, with a bonus for attracting new patients. In Enschede in my own practice I maybe cleared EUR 50,000 after deductions.

The New Zealand physiotherapy system works differently from the Dutch one. Patients can go directly to the physio without a GP referral. ACC covers physiotherapy after accidents fully — that's a huge part of the patient base. Patients not covered by ACC pay NZ$50-80 per session, partly reimbursed by their private insurance. The administration is minimal compared to the Dutch claims system.

Auckland is expensive, but as a physiotherapist you earn well. I rent an apartment in Mt Albert for NZ$520 per week and drive to work in ten minutes. The city offers everything — from Asian eateries to world-class beaches. On weekends I go sailing on the Hauraki Gulf or hiking on Rangitoto Island. The Kiwi obsession with sport and exercise is great for my profession — everyone trains here.

My advice to Dutch physiotherapists: start your Physiotherapy Board registration now. The Green List makes the visa process fast, but professional registration takes time. Also consider regions outside Auckland — there are shortages everywhere and regional salaries are comparable while costs are lower. I received my residence upon arrival and am now building a future that wasn't possible in the Netherlands.