How to register as a nurse in Australia from overseas - You+Aus
Tips + Tricks 25 November 2024

How to register as a nurse in Australia from overseas

So, you want to make the move to Australia and experience our unrivalled lifestyle of sunshine, surf, and sand. But before you pack your bags there are a few things you need to know. Before you head to Australia, one of the most important things to do is to make sure you can work as a nurse in Australia.

Where you’ve received your qualifications, and the country you’re based in determines your pathway down under. Australia has agreements signed with countries like New Zealand, Canada, Ireland, and the UK to make it easy for nurses to migrate. But it’s still possible from other countries!

Regardless of where you come from, you’ll need to complete the following steps to start working as a nurse in Australia.

 

1. Complete a self-check

Your first step to working as a nurse in Australia is to complete an online self-check. This identifies which assessment stage will be used to determine your equivalent qualifications. The self-check doesn’t determine whether your application for registration will be successful.

Once you’ve completed the online self-check, based on the information you provided, you will be placed into one of three streams.

Stream A – Is for when you hold a qualification that is substantially equivalent, or based on similar competencies, to an approved qualification.

Stream B – Is for those who hold a qualification that is relevant to the profession, but is not substantially equivalent, nor based on similar competencies to an approved qualification.

Stream C – Is for when you hold a qualification that is not substantially equivalent or relevant to an approved qualification.

 

2. Apply for an international criminal history check

Before you get started on your Ahpra registration, you will also need to submit an international criminal history check. As the name suggests, this will perform a background check on your criminal history. Ensure that you state the same legal name, email, phone, etc as your Ahpra application.

You will need to pay for the criminal check and then submit it before you have finished your Ahpra registration.

 

3. Prepare your application

Now that you’ve completed your self-assessment, know your stream, and have submitted a criminal history, it’s time to apply for an Ahrpa registration. Ensure you get all your documents certified, and translated if not in English. As part of your application, you’ll need to provide the following:

  • Identity documents
  • Evidence to support any previous names
  • A certified copy of your primary qualification
  • A certified copy of your academic transcript (if applicable)
  • Evidence of you meeting English language skills competency pathways
  • A current CV
  • A statement confirming employment history

 

Check the Ahpra website for further information on your specific circumstances. Once you’ve completed your application it’s time to pay and submit.

 

4. Application assessment

Once you’ve submitted your application The National Board and Ahpra will assess it and determine your eligibility. If you meet the registration standards and your qualifications are acceptable then you’re eligible for registration. If you receive the tick of approval, you can then start sorting out your visa.

Sometimes you may not meet all the registration standards. The Board may decide to grant you registration but under certain conditions. If this happens then you will need to find a visa and job which matches these working restrictions. You may then be able to work to remove these restrictions in the future when you’re in Australia by meeting the specific guidelines. Depending on your conditions, this could be through education, training, or gaining certain experience.

Other times your application may be refused. While this doesn’t feel like a great outcome, your journey isn’t over. You may be able to find other pathways to Australia, where you can gain the required qualifications to register with Ahpra.

 

5. Find the right visa

Now that you’ve successfully registered you can look to find the right visa! There are a lot of different options available for Registered Nurses depending on your circumstances, and how long you want to stay. If you’re unsure which Visa is right for you, we work with a migration agent who can help make your move easier.

 

6. Search for the perfect job

Time for the job hunt! If you’re looking for the perfect healthcare job then check out our job board, or get in touch. We’ll help you find the right role that matches your skill sets, salary expectations, and lifestyle. Having the right job, in your preferred location will make your Australian adventure even better!

 

7. Make the move

Get packed and ready to go. If you need help with housing, getting a bank account, and more, get in touch. We work with migration agents, real estate agents, and other migration professionals who can help make your move easy. All you need to think about is moving your belongings and the flights down under!

 

Conclusion

If you want to make the move to Australia as a nurse, then there are a few important things you need to complete first. Before you start job hunting, get registered with Ahpra. This way you will know if you’re able to work in Australia. If you need help then get in touch, and we’ll work with you to find the right role.

Check out our job listings here.

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