Move abroad as a South African vet
Registration, visa sponsorship and relocation, planned as one route instead of three disconnected processes. Choose your destination and see exactly what is involved.
Choose your destination
United Kingdom
RCVS registration route, skilled worker visa (veterinary surgeon is a sponsored occupation) and relocation support.
See the UK route trending_flatAustralia
AVBC registration route, employer-sponsored skilled visas for veterinarians and relocation support.
See the Australian route trending_flatNew Zealand
VCNZ registration route, accredited employer work visa pathways for veterinarians and relocation support.
See the New Zealand route trending_flatEssential resources for vets
Useful info
Pre-move checklist, documents, visas and family logistics.
Get your CV ready
Structure your CV so UK, Australian and NZ practices respond.
Checklists
Track every step from registration to your first day in clinic.
Cost of living
Compare rent, tax, transport and daily costs across destinations.
Permanent or locum?
Permanent contracts usually come with visa sponsorship, relocation support, CPD allowance and a progression path. Locum work pays a higher day rate and gives you flexibility, but you carry more of the admin and risk yourself. Read the full comparison in our locum vs permanent guide.
Before you apply anywhere
- Confirm how your qualification is treated by the destination's registration body.
- Gather degree verification, transcripts, references and good-standing certificates early.
- Check whether your partner will have work rights on the visa route you are considering.
- Decide on region and rota tolerance before you interview, not after an offer arrives.
Our guides cover each of these in detail.
Frequently asked questions
Where can South African vets realistically work abroad?
The UK, Australia and New Zealand are the three markets with sustained demand, established registration routes for South African qualifications and visa pathways for veterinarians.
Should I go permanent or locum?
Permanent roles usually carry sponsorship, relocation support and progression. Locum work offers higher day rates and flexibility but less structural support. Many vets locum after their first permanent contract.
What does Vetch cost a vet?
Our fees are paid by hiring practices, not by candidates.
Talk to someone who has mapped this route before
Tell us your specialism, timing and family situation and we will give you an honest read on your options.
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