Essential guide for Internationally Qualified Nurses (IQN) and Overseas Qualified Nurses (OQN) on AHPRA registration, OBA exams, English requirements, skilled visas, salary expectations, and permanent residency pathways in Australia’s healthcare system.
Introduction
Australia faces a critical nursing shortage, with over 30,000 registered nurse vacancies projected by 2030. For Overseas Qualified Nurses (OQN) and Internationally Qualified Nurses (IQN), this creates a clear migration opportunity. This guide explains everything you need to know about the AHPRA registration process, visa options, scope of practice, salary levels, and life as a registered nurse in Australia’s public and private healthcare systems.
Understanding AHPRA Registration for Overseas Nurses
The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA), in partnership with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA), manages all nurse registrations. Overseas nurses must complete full registration before they can practise.
Since March 2020, the registration pathway switched to the Outcome-Based Assessment (OBA). This two-stage process replaced the older bridging programs for most applicants. First, you sit the NCLEX-RN for international nurses — a multiple-choice exam testing clinical knowledge. After passing, you proceed to the Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE), which assesses practical skills in a simulated environment.
You must also meet English language requirements. Acceptable tests include IELTS Academic (minimum 7.0 in each band), OET (minimum B in each component), or PTE Academic (minimum 65 in each band). Some countries qualify for registration without further English testing if nursing education was conducted entirely in English.
ANMAC (Australian Nursing and Midwifery Accreditation Council) conducts the skills assessment required for migration visas, while AHPRA handles professional registration. Submit criminal history checks from every country where you have lived for 12 months or more since age 16, plus proof of recency of practice (at least 3 months full-time equivalent in the past 5 years).
Visa Pathways and Permanent Residency Options for Nurses
Nursing remains on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List, ensuring multiple skilled migration pathways.
The Subclass 482 Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa allows employers to sponsor you for up to four years. Many hospitals actively recruit overseas nurses on this visa. After two or three years (depending on the stream), you can transition to permanent residency through the Subclass 186 Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) visa.
Regional options often process faster. The Subclass 494 Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional visa and Subclass 491 Skilled Work Regional (provisional) visa offer pathways to permanent residency after three years of regional work. Rural and regional nursing incentives include priority processing and additional migration points.
General Skilled Migration (GSM) remains available through points-tested visas such as Subclass 189 (independent) or Subclass 190 (state-nominated). Nurses typically score well due to age, English proficiency, and work experience points.
Working as a Registered Nurse in Australia
Australia operates a mixed public and private healthcare system. Public hospitals follow the Medicare Australia framework and employ the majority of nurses. Private hospitals often offer higher salaries and more flexible rosters.
The Australian nursing scope of practice differs from many countries. Registered nurses administer medications (including IV), perform complex assessments, and delegate to enrolled nurses and assistants in nursing. You must understand mandatory notifications — the legal requirement to report concerns about colleague impairment, intoxication, or significant departures from professional standards.
Continuing Professional Development (CPD) is compulsory: 20 hours annually, with records audited randomly. Join the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF) for industrial protection and professional support.
Australian nursing salaries start around AUD 75,000–85,000 for new graduates in public hospitals, rising quickly with experience and penalty rates. Critical care nursing and aged care nursing often command higher pay. Factor in the cost of living, especially in Sydney and Melbourne, when evaluating offers.
Conclusion
Overseas qualified nurses who successfully navigate AHPRA registration and secure a skilled migration visa find rewarding careers in Australia’s healthcare system. Start your journey today by checking your eligibility with ANMAC and preparing for the NCLEX-RN and English language requirements.
