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Join from Overseas

The Royal New Zealand Navy is an innovative and dynamic organisation that makes a significant contribution, both in New Zealand and overseas. Our maritime capability is delivered through our ships and our people. The ‘right’ people are the most important element of this capability.

New Zealand offers the opportunity for a new lifestyle and adventure. The culture, array of exciting activities and spectacular scenery in New Zealand is unmatched anywhere else in the world.

Eligibility
Criteria considered when assessing eligibility includes current or previous service within an armed force and citizenship:

whether you are a current or ex-serving member of the Australian, UK, USA or Canadian Armed Forces, and
if you been a citizen of either New Zealand, Australia, Canada the UK or the USA for a minimum period of 10 years.

There are two ways you can join from overseas. The first is if you have previous military experience and want to move to New Zealand, the second where you have not had any military experience and want to move to New Zealand. The information contained on this page is for those who have military experience.

If you are wanting to apply to the Royal New Zealand Navy from overseas, but you have no previous military experience, you must meet all the immigration requirements prior to applying (gaining permanent New Zealand residency or citizenship). You can then apply as a Full Time Enlistee. The Navy cannot give you an offer of service to assist you in the immigration process.

It is important to know that transfers are handled on a ‘per vacancy’ basis. As positions become available we can work with you to progress your application. The first step is to register your interest online.

Information Pack

Overseas Candidate Information Pack To find out more, our Candidate Information pack provides indepth detail about the process. Download this now to help get prepared. Candidate Information Pack

Recruitment Presentations
From time to time, international recruitment presentations are held. To find out when a presentation may be in your area, watch our Royal New Zealand Navy Facebook Page.

Immigration Information
If successful through the recruitment process you will need to gain the right to live and work in New Zealand. We strongly recommend you apply for and gain Permanent New Zealand Residency via the Skilled Migrant category. If you are not eligible then dependant on your circumstances, you may apply for a “work to residence” permit or a general work permit.

The RNZN is unable to get involved in the Immigration process as we cannot influence the New Zealand Immigration Service in any way, however, if successful through our recruiting process, we will produce an Offer of Service (Offer of Employment) which will facilitate your application for Permanent Residency.

"Integration into the Royal New Zealand Navy had already started with some welcoming e-mail traffic from a variety of sources, including career managers, ex Royal Navy types and born and bred Kiwis."
LT CDR Jon Beadsmoore