Orthoptists working in New Zealand have been trained overseas as there are no training facility available in New Zealand. Orthoptists can work for Te Whatu Ora in a hospital or outpatient clinic which is government funded health care. Some orthoptists work in private ophthalmology practices.

To be able to work in New Zealand it is preferred that you have an internationally recognised qualification from an IOA(International Orthoptic Association) member or associate member country. We encourage all orthoptists in New Zealand to join the NZOSI and actively participate in our annual symposium as well as the monthly online journal club. It is now a visa requirement that you join the New Zealand Orthoptic society. Currently there are no national registration for orthoptists.

Orthoptic duties in New Zealand depend on the requirements of the role. Many orthoptists in New Zealand will do ‘traditional’ orthoptics i.e. working with paediatric ophthalmologists, managing amblyopia, motility and strabismus clinics. Some employers prefer an orthoptist who is also capable of ophthalmic technician skills such as visual field testing, OCT’s etc. Other employers specifically recruit an orthoptist to do ophthalmic technical work. 

If you’re thinking of coming to New Zealand to work for a few years, or maybe even to settle, you’ll need a work or resident visa. Currently, Orthoptists are on a Green list (Tier 1 role eligible for straight to residence).

To be eligible you must be:

• working for an accredited employer or have a job offer from one, and
• paid at least the median wage or above.

If you meet all the visa requirements you can apply for a Straight to Residence Visa now.

You can apply in New Zealand or come on a work visa and apply. You can also apply from outside New Zealand.

Employers generally understand the situation, and when you get a job, will help you with your visa application. Just remember however you won’t be able to start working, and earning, until your visa is approved.