How long can you locum in the UK from New Zealand?

For New Zealand healthcare professionals contemplating a move to the UK, locum work offers a flexible and rewarding opportunity. Whether you are a doctor, nurse, or allied health professional, understanding the duration you can work as a locum in the UK, the qualifications required, and the potential benefits can help you make informed decisions. This article explores these aspects, offering a comprehensive guide to transitioning from New Zealand to the UK as a locum healthcare professional.

Understanding Locum Work in the UK

Locum work involves temporary roles within the healthcare sector, covering for absent staff or helping manage increased workloads. In the UK, locum positions are available across the National Health Service (NHS) and private sector, offering flexibility in terms of contract length, location, and speciality. Locum contracts in the UK can vary significantly in duration. They can be as short as a single shift or as long as several months. Some positions might even extend to a year or more, depending on the needs of the employer and the availability of the locum worker. For New Zealand professionals, this flexibility allows them to choose contracts that match their career goals, financial needs and personal commitments.

Visa Requirements and Limitations

To work as a locum in the UK, New Zealanders must have the appropriate visa. The most common visa for this purpose is the Health and Care Visa, which is designed specifically for medical professionals coming to work in the UK. This visa can last up to five years and is renewable, provided you continue to meet the eligibility criteria.

Youth Mobility Scheme

Another option for New Zealand citizens aged 18 to 30 is the Youth Mobility Scheme. This visa allows holders to live and work in the UK for up to two years (If you’re from New Zealand (and a few other countries), you’ll be able to extend your visa by one year after the 2-year period ends). While this visa is not specific to healthcare professionals, it offers younger workers a chance to gain international experience, including locum roles.

Registration and Qualification Requirements

Before you can start working as a locum in the UK, you must meet certain professional registration requirements. The professional body you register with will vary depending on your profession, so make sure you have a good idea of the registration requirements for your needs.

For Doctors

Doctors need to be registered with a licence to practise from the General Medical Council (GMC). Additionally, depending on your speciality and the nature of the locum work, you may also need to be on the Specialist or GP Register.

For Nurses and Midwives

Nurses and midwives must register with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC). The registration process involves proving your qualifications and passing a language proficiency test.

For Allied Health Professionals

Allied health professionals, such as physiotherapists and occupational therapists, need to be registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). As with other professional bodies, the HCPC will need to confirm that the qualifications and experience you hold are recognised in the UK. So, be prepared to have documentation for this ahead of time to streamline the application.

Preparing for the Move

Moving to another country for work is a major life event that takes a lot of planning and foresight. Below are some key considerations for New Zealand healthcare professionals planning to locum in the UK:

Understanding the Healthcare System

The UK's healthcare system, predominantly run by the NHS, can be quite different from New Zealand's. Familiarising yourself with the structure of the NHS and the standards expected of healthcare professionals is important to hit the ground running.

Securing Accommodation

Finding suitable accommodation is another important aspect. Depending on the length and location of your locum contract, you may opt for short-term lets, shared accommodation, or serviced apartments.

Financial and Tax Considerations

Understanding the UK tax system is important, especially for locum workers who may have different tax obligations compared to permanent staff. Consulting with a tax advisor who understands both New Zealand and UK tax laws can be beneficial.

Benefits of Locum Work in the UK

Locum work in the UK offers numerous advantages, including competitive pay, the opportunity to experience working in different healthcare settings, and the flexibility to balance work with travel and leisure activities.

Professional Development

Working in different environments and with diverse patient demographics can significantly enhance your skills and broaden your professional experience. When compared to other developed nations, the UK is at the cutting-edge of healthcare technology and innovation. However, the UK is dealing with a patient backlog due to a lack of skilled healthcare workers. This means that your skills are highly sought after and you’ll have plenty of opportunities to develop your career by working at the pinnacle of healthcare.

Personal Growth

Living and working in a different country is an enriching experience that can offer personal growth, increased cultural awareness, and the opportunity to travel around Europe during your stay.

Earning Potential

Working as a locum healthcare worker is a great way to earn more while you work. This is because locum rates are typically higher than full-time roles to account for the enhanced flexibility that you’ll need to provide in terms of where and when you work.

Better Work/Life Balance

If you’re looking to get the most out of your time in the UK, then working as a locum is a great way to strike the right work/life balance. You get to choose what assignments you take on, giving you more control over how many hours you work over a given week. So, if you want to spend more time relaxing and exploring the UK, all you have to do is cut back on the assignments you take on. This makes it the perfect vocation to enjoy a working holiday in the UK.

Start a New Journey by Working as a Locum in the UK

For New Zealand healthcare professionals, the UK presents exciting opportunities for locum work. Depending on visa type, locum roles can last from a few days to several years, offering both flexibility and a gateway to international professional development. Proper preparation in terms of understanding the healthcare system, meeting registration requirements, and addressing logistical matters like accommodation and taxation will ensure a smooth transition and a successful stint in the UK. If you’re ready to embark on an exciting new career journey as a locum healthcare worker in the UK, our team at Globe Locums would love to help. Please contact us today to discuss your needs further or take a look at our latest vacancies.