With a high demand for skilled healthcare professionals, Australia offers fantastic opportunities for nurses worldwide. However, before you pack your bags, it’s essential to understand the requirements to work as a nurse in Australia to ensure a smooth transition into the workforce.

At Healthcare Australia, we specialise in guiding nurses from registration to job placement so you can focus on what you do best — providing excellent patient care.

Nursing qualification requirements in Australia

To become a registered nurse in Australia, you must have a Bachelor of Nursing or an equivalent qualification. If you trained in the UK, the US or another country, your qualifications must be assessed to ensure they meet Australian standards.

In some cases, additional coursework or training may be required to bridge any gaps between your previous studies and Australian nursing standards. It’s best to have your credentials reviewed early to avoid delays.

Skills assessment for overseas nurses

The Australian Nursing and Midwifery Accreditation Council (ANMAC) is responsible for assessing the skills and qualifications of internationally trained nurses. ANMAC’s assessment is used for migration purposes and determines whether your education and work experience are comparable to Australian nursing standards.

To apply for an ANMAC skills assessment, you’ll need:

• Proof of identity
• Certified copies of your nursing qualifications
• Proof of work experience
• Professional references from previous employers
• Evidence of English language proficiency

It’s important to note that ANMAC is the skills assessment authority, while the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) is the registration authority. They serve different purposes, and nurses must complete both processes separately. Check out our international applicants guide for a step-by-step breakdown of this process.

English language proficiency requirements

To work as a nurse in Australia, you must prove your English proficiency by taking one of the approved language tests. The nursing IELTS and PTE requirements in Australia are key considerations for many applicants.

Below are accepted tests and minimum scores:

• IELTS — Minimum 7.0 in each band
• PTE Academic — Minimum 65 in each section
• OET (Occupational English Test) — Minimum Grade B in all sections

You’ll need to take the test if you are a nurse from a non-English-speaking country. However, if you completed your nursing education in an English-speaking country and worked there for at least five years, you might be eligible for an exemption.

We recommend preparing for these exams well in advance to ensure you meet the required scores. Many online resources and prep courses are available to help you succeed.

Nursing registration process (AHPRA)

All nurses in Australia must be registered with AHPRA. This registration ensures that all healthcare professionals meet Australian standards of practice.

Here’s what the registration process typically involves:

• Qualification verification via ANMAC (if applicable for migration purposes)
• Meeting the English requirement for nursing registration in Australia by achieving the minimum scores in approved English proficiency tests
• Completing the NCLEX Australia requirements for international nurses as part of the Outcome-Based Assessment (OBA)
• Criminal history check and proof of identity
• Work experience documentation, if required

Outcome-Based Assessment (OBA) for internationally qualified nurses

The Outcome-Based Assessment (OBA) is now the primary pathway for internationally qualified nurses seeking AHPRA registration. This assessment replaces most previous bridging programs.

The OBA consists of two key components:

• NCLEX-RN (National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses) — A computer-based exam that tests theoretical nursing knowledge.
• Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) — A practical exam that assesses clinical skills in a simulated healthcare setting.

It is essential to stay up to date with AHPRA requirements, as they are subject to change. Always refer to the official AHPRA website for the most current information. For more details on the OBA process, visit our step-by-step guide to working in Australia.

Licensing and certification requirements

These certifications vary depending on your nursing specialty, so it’s worth checking job descriptions in your preferred area of work.

NCLEX Australia requirements for international nurses

The NCLEX-RN is part of the OBA pathway for registration. It is not a separate requirement for all international nurses but rather one component of the pathway.

The process includes:

• Submitting an application through AHPRA
• Registering for the NCLEX-RN
• Scheduling and preparing for the exam
• Taking the NCLEX-RN at an approved testing centre

Additional certifications

Beyond nursing registration, some workplaces may require additional certifications, such as:

• First Aid and CPR
• Working with Children Check (WWCC)
• Manual handling and infection control
• Medication administration competency

Work authorisation and visa requirements to work as a nurse in Australia

You will need a visa that permits employment to work legally in Australia. There are several visa options available for nurses, each with its own requirements and benefits.

Working Holiday Visa

The 12-month Working Holiday Visa is popular for international nurses. While standard rules limit single-employer work to six months, HCA allows you to work for the full year by placing you in various facilities, ensuring no single placement exceeds six months’ equivalent. You can learn more about the process in our top 10 questions about nursing in Australia.

Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)

This visa is for nurses who do not require employer sponsorship. It grants permanent residency and allows you to work anywhere in Australia.

Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)

For this visa, a state or territory government must nominate you. It provides permanent residency but requires you to work in the sponsoring state for a certain period.

Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (Subclass 482)

This employer-sponsored visa allows you to work in Australia for up to four years. If you receive a job offer from an Australian employer, they may be able to sponsor your visa.

What to keep in mind when applying for a visa 

Visa requirements can vary based on your nationality and individual circumstances, so it’s important to check the latest updates from the Department of Home Affairs.

Healthcare Australia may provide general information regarding visa options. However, we are not registered migration agents. For specific migration advice, please consult a qualified registered migration agent.

Navigate the nursing application process with Healthcare Australia

Moving to the Land Down Under to work as a nurse is an exciting and rewarding journey. Whether you’re navigating the US or UK nurse to Australia requirements, preparation is key — from understanding registration processes to meeting the IELTS requirement for nursing in Australia.

At Healthcare Australia, we specialise in supporting international nurses, from registration to job placement. Let us help you navigate the process and find the right nursing job in Australia. Take the first step today — contact Healthcare Australia for expert guidance and career support!