Making the decision to move and work in Australia is the easy part, right? It’s the paperwork and logistics that can get overwhelming. Honestly, it’s one of the biggest frustrations we see as recruiters supporting international nurses. So, to save you the headache, we’ve put everything into one easy checklist to keep you completely organised before you join us.
First Things First
AHPRA Registration
You are unable to work in Australia as a nurse without this. It’s essential, and we recommend completing the AHPRA Self-Check to determine your eligibility: 👉 AHPRA Self-Check and Portfolio
💡 HCA Tip: AHPRA paperwork can get notoriously confusing and tedious. Before you hit submit and risk months of delays, connect with us! We’ll talk through it all with you and double-check your application form to make sure it’s flawless.
Working Rights (Your Visa)
You won’t be able to work if you don’t hold the correct working rights. Check out which subclass you qualify for based on your age and passport: Visa Finder – Work Visas
Where to Live
Everywhere in Australia is different, so choosing where to live can be a task, and you’ll need to have an idea before you book a flight. Find somewhere to match your lifestyle: Where to Live: Your Guide to Finding the Perfect City for You
💡 HCA Tip: Chat with us about the best places to work for your specialty and skills. We’ll tell you exactly which cities have the highest demand for your background. Plus, HCA works all over the country, so you don’t just have to pick one!
Cost of Living
To help you know exactly how much money you need to save to fund your initial landing and lifestyle in Australia, we’ve popped together an overview for you: What It Really Costs to Live in Australia.
To Secure a Job
Collect Your Documents & Vaccinations
To work, there is a list of documents you’ll need before you’re able to start. Double-check whether you can get any missing shots through your current job for free first. If not, don’t pay high private fees, leave them until you get to Australia.
💡 HCA Tip: Understand which vaccinations and documents you need to get cleared in each state. Ask us about the documents for each state, we have teams all over Australia who pop them into one pack.
Before You Leave Home
Back Up Your Docs
Back up all your clinical documents, transcripts, and references onto a USB stick, email them to yourself, or scan them directly onto your phone.
Practical Training
Make sure you are fully up to date on your practical training certificates.
💡 HCA Tip: Don’t pay crazy fees back home! You can easily access and complete your mandatory practical training directly through the HCA portal.
Your Aussie Bank Account
Did you know you can apply online before you arrive? We can recommend the best options for you if needed, to get your account set up early.
Official Proof of Hours
On your absolute last day of work back home, request a Statement of Service (SOS) from HR displaying your exact end date and hours worked (e.g., 37.5 hours).
When You Arrive in Aus: The Admin Setup
TFN (Tax File Number)
Apply for this online the second you arrive so you don’t get hit with emergency tax rates.
Medicare
Set this up as soon as you land if your passport qualifies for a reciprocal health agreement.
Local Number
Pick up a pay-as-you-go local SIM card straight away for seamless communication.
Serology Clearances
If you’re missing any lab work, we’ll point you directly to local services to get your bloods done quickly.
Vaccines
Easily finish off any remaining workplace immunisations at local chemists once you arrive.
Clearances for the States
Get your state-specific background checks sorted so you’re legally ready to walk onto the wards.
We’ve Got You Covered!
As part of Healthcare Australia, you’ll have hands-on support from your very first call all the way until you’re working shifts in Australia. We’re here to talk you through everything you need and answer any questions along the way, basically taking the hassle out of the whole process.
Our team will review all your documents to avoid delays, advise you on any missing paperwork, and answer every single question, so you’re 100% ready to start working across agency and travel nursing when you arrive. Even when you’re finally over here, we’re still right by your side.
Whether you’re already in the process of coming over or you’re just starting to think about it and need some guidance, we’re here for you!
Apply directly here or drop us an email at international@healthcareaustralia.com.au to kickstart your journey.
