Australia is a popular destination for internationally qualified nurses (IQNs) seeking career growth, a higher standard of living, and better opportunities in the healthcare industry. However, to make the move, understanding the visa process is crucial. Navigating the various visa options, requirements, and timelines can be challenging, but with the right guidance, you can successfully transition to Australia and begin your nursing career.
In this blog, we will walk you through the key steps in the visa process for nurses moving to Australia, providing a comprehensive guide to ensure a smooth experience.
- Choose the Right Visa for Nurses
There are several visa options for nurses planning to move to Australia. Selecting the right one depends on your qualifications, experience, and long-term plans. The most common visas for nurses include:
Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (TSS – subclass 482): This employer-sponsored visa allows you to work for up to four years in Australia. To apply, you must have a job offer from an Australian employer and be registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA).
Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189): This visa is for nurses who meet the skills requirements but do not have an employer sponsoring them. It is a points-based visa and allows you to live and work permanently in Australia.
Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190): This visa is for nurses who are nominated by an Australian state or territory government. Like the subclass 189 visa, it is points-based and grants permanent residency.
Regional Skilled Visa (subclass 491): Nurses looking to work in regional Australia may be eligible for this temporary visa, which is valid for five years. It may lead to permanent residency after three years of living and working in a regional area.
Each visa comes with its own set of requirements, including skill assessments, language proficiency, and health checks.
- Obtain Your Nursing Registration with AHPRA
Before applying for a visa, you must be registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). The registration process ensures that your qualifications and experience meet the standards of Australian nursing practice.
Here are the key steps involved in registering with AHPRA:
Eligibility check: You must provide proof of your nursing education, work experience, and qualifications to demonstrate that you meet Australian standards.
English language proficiency: Nurses must demonstrate a high level of English proficiency, usually through an exam like the IELTS or OET.
Outcome-Based Assessment (OBA): If your qualifications do not directly meet Australian standards, you may need to undergo an OBA, which consists of a Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQ) exam and an Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE).
Submit documents: AHPRA requires specific documents, including identification, qualification certificates, and professional references. Ensure that all documents are certified and submitted correctly to avoid delays.
Once registered, you’ll receive an AHPRA registration number, which is a critical requirement for many visa applications.
- Skills Assessment through ANMAC
For skilled migration visas, such as the subclass 189 or 190, you will need to undergo a skills assessment conducted by the Australian Nursing & Midwifery Accreditation Council (ANMAC). This assessment verifies that your qualifications and professional experience are equivalent to Australian standards.
Here’s what you need for the ANMAC assessment:
Proof of identity: Passport and other relevant identification documents.
Educational qualifications: Your nursing degree or diploma must be accredited and meet the required level.
Work experience: You’ll need to provide references and evidence of your professional nursing experience.
English language proficiency: As with AHPRA, you must provide proof of your English language ability through exams like IELTS or OET.
ANMAC’s positive skills assessment is required to lodge a visa application under the skilled migration program.
- Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)
For points-based visas (subclass 189, 190, and 491), you will need to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through the SkillSelect platform. Your EOI provides details of your skills, qualifications, work experience, and other relevant information, allowing the Australian government to assess your eligibility for a visa.
The points-based system awards points based on factors such as:
Age
English language proficiency
Nursing qualifications and work experience
Australian or overseas work experience
State or territory nomination (for subclass 190 and 491 visas)
Once your EOI is submitted, you may be invited to apply for a visa if your points score meets the required threshold.
- Apply for the Visa
After receiving an invitation to apply, you can proceed with the visa application process. Here are the steps:
Gather documentation: Make sure all your documents—identity proof, AHPRA registration, ANMAC skills assessment, and English proficiency test results—are up to date and certified.
Health and character checks: You’ll need to undergo a health examination to prove you meet Australia’s health requirements. Additionally, a police clearance is required to ensure you meet character standards.
Submit application and pay fees: Complete the visa application online and pay the associated fees. Make sure to submit your application before the deadline stated in the invitation to apply.
- Wait for Visa Approval
The processing time for visa applications varies depending on the type of visa and the complexity of your case. It can range from a few months to over a year. During this time, ensure that you remain in compliance with any conditions related to your application, such as maintaining a valid English test result. - Plan Your Move to Australia
Once your visa is granted, it’s time to start planning your move! Consider the following:
Relocation services: Look for professional services to help you with housing, transportation, and settling into your new life in Australia.
Job search: If you haven’t already secured employment, start applying for nursing positions through healthcare job boards or recruitment agencies.
Visa conditions: Be aware of any conditions tied to your visa, such as working in a specific region (for subclass 491) or staying with your employer (for subclass 482).
Conclusion
Moving to Australia as a nurse can be a complex but rewarding process. By understanding the visa options, obtaining your AHPRA registration, and successfully navigating the ANMAC skills assessment, you’ll be well on your way to starting a new nursing career in Australia. Axon Careers specializes in helping internationally qualified nurses navigate every stage of the process, from visa applications to job placements and relocation services.
Need personalized support? Contact Axon Careers today for expert guidance on your journey to Australia.
