Trans-Tasman Mutual Recognition

Individuals who are currently registered as an occupational therapist with The Occupational Therapy Board in Australia (Ahpra) are eligible to apply for registration in New Zealand under the Trans-Tasman Mutual Recognition Act (1997). If you have been previously registered in New Zealand then you should apply for restoration of your registration.

You will need to have all the required documentation available for uploading in your online application. The OTBNZ reserves the right to ask for original or certified copies of your documentation to be supplied.

Identification

Two forms of identity documentation, and evidence of any changes to your name. One of these must have a photograph.

Acceptable forms of identification are:
- Digital copy of birth certificate
- Passport
- New Zealand citizenship certificate
- New Zealand certificate of identity
- Drivers licence
- Deed poll change or marriage licence.

Criminal history checks

You are required to declare any criminal convictions you may have. A link to apply for a New Zealand criminal history check will be emailed to you when your application is being processed, unless you have never been to New Zealand.

You must also apply and pay for a criminal conviction check for Australia, and any other country you have lived in for more than 6 months in the last 10 years. Our preferred provider is Fit2work.

If you have any convictions, we will ask for more information to enable us to understand how this may impact your application.

Health information

You must declare any physical or mental health condition/s that may impact on your ability to practice as an occupational therapist. We may ask for more information to enable us to understand how this may impact your application.

Previous registration

You must supply your current Ahpra registration number so OTBNZ can confirm your current registration status. If you are or have been registered with any other regulatory or disciplinary body then please supply a Certificate of Good Standing. You will also need to supply information about any disciplinary action that may have been taken.

Practising certificate

You must be registered and hold a practising certificate in order to work as an occupational therapist in Aotearoa New Zealand. You may apply for a practising certificate through your applicant portal.

Application and practising certificate fees

The application fee for registration as a TTMRA applicant is NZD$ 280 (inc GST). Practising certificates are NZD $500 (inc GST) for up to 12 months and NZD $190 (inc GST) for up to 3 months. Application fees are non-refundable.

Processing time:

Once you have lodged your complete application for registration and a practising certificate, including payment and all requested documentation, you are deemed registered and may begin practising. The OTBNZ will advise of the outcome of your application within one month.

Begin your Trans-Tasman Mutual Recognition Application.

Apply here

Documentation list:

2 forms of identification
evidence of any name change
evidence of qualification(s)
certificate of good standing from any other regulatory or disciplinary body other than Ahpra
any relevant information about any criminal convictions
any relevant information about any health conditions
any relevant information about any disciplinary action.