How to become a member
If you have questions about becoming an NZICA member, you'll find what you need to know on this page.
Membership requirements
For all three membership designations (Chartered Accountant, Associate Chartered Accountant, and Accounting Technician) you'll need to complete:
- academic study
- a practical experience programme
- a professional competence programme.
Deciding where and what to study can be difficult. We've made it easier by providing a list of accredited institutions, recognised courses, and other useful information.
CAs are qualified professionals who have completed four years of degree level study.
ACAs are professionals with a bachelor's degree with accounting and business study.
ATs attain professional designation after acquiring core accounting and business skills.
Finished your tertiary study?
Conceptual knowledge combined with practical experience will make you a well-rounded professional. Find out more about the general and specified practical experience required for membership.
Search for employers in your region to complete your practical experience requirements.
Read more about the Professional Competence Programme that goes hand in hand with your practical experience.
Foundations Programme
PAS and PCE
Coming from overseas?
If you're a member of a Global Accounting Alliance (GAA) Institute and have moved to New Zealand, you can benefit from a range of our services.
If you're a full member with an overseas accounting body we recognise, you can apply to becoming an NZICA member.
Completed study overseas? You can have it considered towards the academic requirements for NZICA membership.
Already a full member?
Unsure which membership pathway to choose or thinking of switching to another? Find out about the additional requirements to transfer to another designation.
Are you a former member who wants to return to membership? Find out how.
Once you're fully qualified as a Chartered Accountant you can get a Certificate of Public Practice, which allows you to offer accounting services to the public.