Australia remains one of the most popular destinations for international nurses due to its structured visa pathways, competitive salaries, and strong healthcare system. With clear sponsorship routes and permanent residency options, you can build a rewarding and secure nursing career Down Under.
Why Australia is a Winning Move for Nurses
- Nursing is on Australia’s Skilled Occupation List, making it eligible for sponsorship under skilled visa subclasses.
- Hospitals and aged-care facilities regularly sponsor overseas nurses and offer relocation packages.
- You can transition from a Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa to permanent residency through the Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS 186).
- Australia’s healthcare system is globally respected, offering career stability and lifestyle benefits.
Step-by-Step Nursing Sponsorship & Residency Pathway
1. Register with AHPRA / NMBA (Nursing Board of Australia)
All nurses must have their qualifications assessed and approved by the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) and the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA). Some may need bridging programs or supervised practice.
2. Get a Job Offer from a Licensed Employer
Secure employment with an accredited hospital or healthcare organization willing to sponsor you under the skilled visa program. Your offer must meet wage, hour, and duty standards defined by the Australian government.
3. Apply for Subclass 482 – Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa
This visa allows sponsored nurses to work in Australia for 2–4 years depending on the occupation list category (short-term or medium-term). Most Registered Nurses qualify for the Medium-Term stream.
Check the Skilled Occupation List
4. Transition to Permanent Residency via ENS (Employer Nomination Scheme 186) or Regional 191
After three years of full-time work on a TSS visa, many nurses become eligible for permanent residency under ENS subclass 186. Alternatively, those in regional areas can apply for PR through the Skilled Regional subclass 191.
5. Apply for Australian Citizenship
Once you hold permanent residency and meet residency and character requirements (typically four years of lawful stay), you can apply for Australian citizenship.
Learn About Australian Citizenship
Requirements & Tips for International Nurses
- English Language Proficiency: IELTS, OET, or PTE Academic required for both AHPRA registration and visa.
- Bridging Courses: Some nurses may need adaptation or supervised practice.
- Health and Character: All applicants must pass mandatory medical and police checks.
- Regional Incentives: Working in rural areas can lead to faster PR pathways.
- Visa Costs: Many employers cover part or all of the sponsorship and relocation costs.
Official Resources You’ll Need
- Australian Skilled Occupation List
- TSS Visa (Subclass 482) Overview
- Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186)
- AHPRA Registration Portal
- Australian Citizenship Information
LearnersMix Support for Nurses
At LearnersMix, we provide end-to-end assistance for nurses aiming to work and settle in Australia. Our team helps with AHPRA registration, finding sponsoring employers, preparing visa applications, and transitioning to permanent residency.
