New Zealand Overseas Relocation Grant for Teachers | Up to NZD 10,000

    Ready to discover eligibility, application steps, and funding details for the New Zealand Overseas Relocation Grant for teachers offering up to NZD 10,000?

    New Zealand offers a generous Overseas Relocation Grant of up to NZD 10,000 to qualified teachers relocating to work in state or state-integrated schools or licensed early learning centres. This government-backed initiative helps cover relocation-related expenses such as airfare, temporary accommodation, registration with the Teaching Council, and relocation of immediate family members.

    Why This Grant Matters

    • Reduces the upfront financial burden for overseas-trained and returning educators 
    • Encourages skilled teachers to fill critical staffing needs in primary, secondary, and ECE sectors 
    • Supports family relocation and registration costs to ensure a smooth transition 

    Funding Highlights

    • Maximum grant: NZD 10,000 (GST-inclusive)
    • Covers actual relocation expenses with valid tax invoices or receipts
    • Paid as a single lump sum within 6–8 working weeks of a complete application. 

    Who Qualifies?

    To be eligible for this grant, you must meet all of the following criteria:

    1. Registered and certified by the Teaching Council of New Zealand 
    2. Employed full-time (minimum 12 months) in a state/state-integrated school or licensed early learning centre
    3. Start your role between 1 July and 30 June of the relevant year
    4. Apply within 90 days of commencing full-time employment
    5. Have not taught in a New Zealand state school or licensed early learning centre in the preceding 12 months. 
    6. Possess a valid NZ work or resident visa, or be a citizen. 

    Eligible Expenses

    Claims must be supported by valid receipts and may include, but are not limited to:

    • Flights to New Zealand 
    • Temporary accommodation costs 
    • Registration fees with the Teaching Council 
    • Visa-related expenses 
    • Relocation costs for immediate family members 
    • Goods were moved for the household setup. 
    • DHL, courier, or baggage shipping costs are necessary for relocation 
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    How to Apply: Step-by-Step

    1. Gather Required Documents

    • Certified Teaching Council registration and practising certificate 
    • Signed full-time employment contract (≥12 months) dated between July and the following June 
    • Valid work or resident visa 
    • Tax invoices/receipts for all eligible expenses 
    • Bank statement showing account details and payer name
    1. Complete the Application Form

    Download the application form from the Education Workforce website, save it, and fill out every field. Follow the evidence checklist carefully.

    1. Assemble Your Evidence Package
    • Employment agreement 
    • Receipts and invoices bundled as a single PDF 
    • Copy of a current bank statement showing your account details 

    4. Email Submission

    Send your complete application to teacher.supply@education.govt.nz. Include the completed form, employment copy, receipts PDF, and bank proof 

    1. Processing Timeline
    • Application reviewed within 4–6 working weeks 
    • Payment is made 2–4 weeks after approval, via direct deposit 

    Terms & Conditions

    • Individuals who entered New Zealand under the Border Exception are not eligible 
    • If employment is terminated before 12 months, some or all of the grant may need to be repaid 
    • Grants are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis, capped annually.

    Support Beyond the Grant

    To complement the financial grant, New Zealand schools and agencies provide:

    • Navigator services for international teacher recruitment
    • Mentor allocation: 10 weeks of support for primary/ECE teachers, and 20 weeks for secondary teachers
    • Access to online professional learning and development through Tātai Aho Rau Core Education 

    Straight‑to‑Residence Advantage

    Many teaching roles qualify for Fast Track Immigration via the Green List:

    • Primary/Secondary teachers: eligible for Straight-to-Residence visas 
    • ECE teachers: Work-to-Residence visa with residency eligibility after 2 years 
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    Employer Benefits

    Schools/employers may also claim the Overseas Finder’s Fee (up to NZD 3,450) to support recruitment costs for teachers granted the relocation grant.

    Final Thoughts on New Zealand Overseas Relocation Grant for Teachers

    The New Zealand Overseas Relocation Grant offers vital financial support—up to NZD 10,000—to help international teachers transition to full-time teaching roles in state or integrated schools, as well as licensed early learning centres. Complemented by mentor support, residency pathways, and professional development options, this grant removes barriers and enhances your teaching experience in Aotearoa.

    To take advantage of this offer:

    1. Confirm eligibility 
    2. Gather necessary documentation 
    3. Apply promptly within 90 days of employment 
    4. Engage with mentorship and immigration steps 

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