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Nurses Migration
Expert guidance to make your Australian dream a reality.
of Nurse Migration Expertise
Applications Processed Every Year
Offices in India, NZ & Partners
From Registration to PR
For over 25 years, Derrick Jones has been a trusted partner for nurses from around the world looking to build successful careers and fulfilling lives abroad. What began in 1999 as a vision to help nurses migrate has grown into one of the most reliable nurse migration services, processing over 1,000 visa applications every year across New Zealand, Australia, and beyond.
With offices in India and New Zealand, and partner branches spanning 13+ countries including the UK, USA, Ireland, Singapore, Malaysia, and the Middle East, we provide unmatched global support for nurses aspiring to move to Australia.
Australia continues to be one of the most sought-after destinations for internationally qualified nurses, offering:
in annual nursing salaries
needed across Australia by 2025 — exceptional job security
through skilled migration visas (Subclass 189, 190, 491)
with strong professional development support
in safe, multicultural cities like Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth
visa-free access to 185+ countries
At Derrick Jones, we simplify every step of your migration journey. Our dedicated teams assist with AHPRA guidance, ANMAC skills assessment support, NCLEX-RN and OSCE preparation, visa processing with Registered Migration Agents, and full settlement support — ensuring you have a smooth transition from registration to your first day on the ward.
To begin your nursing migration to Australia, you must meet the following core requirements as assessed by AHPRA (Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency) and ANMAC (Australian Nursing & Midwifery Accreditation Council).
BSc Nursing, Post BSc, or MSc Nursing — or an equivalent qualification that is recognized by AHPRA. Your degree will be assessed to determine which registration stream applies to you (Stream A, B, or C).
Relevant clinical nursing practice within the last 5 years. The exact experience requirement may vary depending on your visa pathway and AHPRA stream. Stream B applicants (most Indian-qualified nurses) are required to demonstrate adequate nursing practice before proceeding to examination.
A recognized English language test is required at the final stage of your AHPRA registration. The accepted tests and minimum required scores are:
| Test | Reading | Listening | Speaking | Writing |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| OET | B | B | B | C+ |
| IELTS | 7.0 | 7.0 | 7.0 | 6.5 |
| PTE | 66 | 66 | 66 | 56 |
Score clubbing is accepted within a 12-month period. For IELTS and PTE, individual module scores must not fall below the stated minimums. Single modules are not accepted — all four skills must be attempted together.
Nurse migration to Australia follows two parallel tracks: the AHPRA clinical registration pathway and the skilled migration visa pathway. Both must be completed to legally work as a registered nurse in Australia. Here is every step, explained clearly.
Your journey begins with the AHPRA Self-Check, an online assessment that determines which registration stream applies to you.
To start: Visit the AHPRA website → Search "AHPRA international health practitioners" → Click "Self-check in nursing and midwifery."
The three streams are:
Fee: AUD 410 (approximately INR 24,000) Next step: Complete the online AHPRA orientation class, answer assessment questions, and upload all academic certificates (from 10th standard through Nursing degree) — all must be attested.
After completing the orientation class, you will need to submit your Portfolio — a collection of certified academic and professional documents.
Once submitted, AHPRA will review your portfolio. This typically takes a minimum of 4 weeks. Upon successful review, you will receive your ATT — Authorisation to Take Test — which allows you to register for the NCLEX-RN exam.
The Australian Nursing & Midwifery Accreditation Council (ANMAC) is the body responsible for skills assessments for nurses applying for skilled migration visas.
The Australian Nursing & Midwifery Accreditation Council (ANMAC) is the body responsible for skills assessments for nurses applying for skilled migration visas. A positive ANMAC skills assessment is a mandatory requirement for skilled visa pathways (Subclass 189, 190, and 491).
Most nurses migrating from outside the UK, USA, Ireland, Canada, Singapore, Spain, or Hong Kong will need to complete an AHPRA registration first before applying for a Modified Skills Assessment through ANMAC.
Derrick Jones assists with every stage of your ANMAC application, ensuring your documents are correctly prepared and submitted.
Assessment fee: AUD 590–650 (approximately) Processing time: Varies; typically 8–12 weeks
The NCLEX-RN (National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses) is a theory-based online examination that tests your clinical knowledge and competency as a registered nurse.
Key details:
Derrick Jones provides structured NCLEX-RN preparation classes with comprehensive study materials and guided practice to ensure you are confident on exam day.
After passing the NCLEX-RN, you will be invited to attend the OSCE — a practical clinical skills examination that evaluates your hands-on nursing competencies in a simulated healthcare environment.
Key details:
Derrick Jones' OSCE coaching programme prepares you for all 10 stations, covering communication, clinical assessment, medication management, and emergency response — giving you the best possible chance of passing first time.
Your English language test is required at the final stage of AHPRA registration. You may complete your language test at any point during your journey — many candidates choose to prepare and sit the exam while their AHPRA portfolio is being assessed, to save time.
Derrick Jones offers expert coaching for OET, IELTS (Academic), and PTE (Academic) — the three tests accepted by AHPRA. Our trainers are experienced in the specific requirements of healthcare English and the AHPRA score benchmarks.
With your ANMAC skills assessment, language results, and AHPRA registration in progress, you are ready to apply for your Australian migration visa.
Skilled nurses are listed on Australia's Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL), qualifying them for multiple visa options.
Your Derrick Jones Registered Migration Agent (RMA) will assess your profile, recommend the right visa subclass, submit your Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect, and manage your full application.
Once your visa is granted and your OSCE and language results are confirmed, AHPRA will complete your registration as a Registered Nurse in Australia.
You are now legally authorized to practice nursing anywhere in Australia and can begin your career with the support of Derrick Jones' settlement team.
[Processing Timeline Callout] Overall estimated timeline: 12 to 18 months from Self-Check to first day of practice.
12 to 18 months from Self-Check to first day of practice.
Registered nurses (ANZSCO 254411) are listed on Australia's Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL), giving you access to several strong visa pathways. Your Derrick Jones migration adviser will recommend the most suitable visa based on your profile, points score, work experience, and state preferences.
A points-based permanent residency visa with no requirement for employer sponsorship or state nomination. Nurses submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect and receive an invitation based on their points score.
Permanent residency from day one
Full work rights with no restrictions
Access to Australian Medicare and public services
Best for: Nurses with strong points (age under 33, high English scores, extensive experience)
A permanent residency visa that requires nomination by an Australian state or territory government.State nomination adds 5 points to your overall score and can be particularly useful if you are just below the invitation threshold for Subclass 189.
Permanent residency
Must live and work in the nominating state for a minimum of 2 years
Best for: Nurses open to a specific state and looking to boost their points
A 5-year provisional visa for nurses willing to live and work in regional Australia. After 3 years on a 491 visa, you may be eligible to apply for permanent residency through the Subclass 191 visa.
Strong pathway to permanent residency
15 points added to your score
Nominated by a state/territory or a family member already living regionally
Best for: Nurses flexible about location and seeking faster invitation
If you receive a job offer from an approved Australian healthcare employer, you may be eligible for an employer-sponsored visa.
Subclass 482 (Temporary Skills Shortage Visa): 2–4 year temporary work visa, with pathway to permanent residency
Subclass 186 (Employer Nomination Scheme): Direct permanent residency with employer nominatio
Best for: Nurses who have been offered or can secure employment from an Australian hospital or health service
Note: ANMAC skills assessment and AHPRA registration are required for all visa pathways.
Australia is one of the world's most desirable destinations for internationally qualified nurses — offering not just an exceptional career, but an outstanding quality of life for you and your family.
AHPRA registration is an internationally respected credential. Working in Australia's world-class healthcare system gives your qualifications and experience a global standing that opens doors worldwide.
Registered nurses in Australia earn competitive salaries between AUD 73,000 and AUD 120,000+ annually, along with penalty rates, superannuation contributions, and comprehensive employee benefits.
Australia faces a critical shortage of nurses - with over 85,000 additional nurses needed by 2025. This means strong demand, broad employment options, and long-term career stability across metropolitan and regional areas.
Australia's healthcare sector is known for reasonable shift structures, strong union protections, and a genuine emphasis on staff wellbeing. Nurses enjoy flexible rosters and a culture that values life outside of work.
Nursing is on Australia's MLTSSL, providing clear and structured pathways to permanent residency and Australian citizenship — securing a stable future for your entire family.
Australia is one of the most diverse nations on earth. Cities like Melbourne, Sydney, and Brisbane have thriving communities from across South Asia, Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and beyond — making it easy to settle, connect, and feel at home.
From exam preparation to visa lodgement and settlement support, we guide you through every step of becoming a Registered Nurse in Australia. Trusted by over 10,000 clients worldwide.
We work closely with leading hospitals and healthcare providers across Australia to help you identify and secure the right employment opportunities as part of your migration journey.
Our Registered Migration Agents (RMAs) ensure your visa and immigration processes are handled professionally, accurately, and in full compliance with Australian immigration law.
Tailored coaching for OET, IELTS, PTE, NCLEX-RN, and OSCE — we prepare you thoroughly for every exam and professional requirement, with experienced trainers who understand what AHPRA expects.
Beyond professional migration, we help you and your family settle comfortably in Australia — with support for accommodation, transport, school search, and community connection.
From language proficiency tests to advanced clinical examinations, Derrick Jones provides complete training and personalised support — ensuring you are fully prepared to meet every requirement for a smooth migration to Australia.
AHPRA (Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency) is the government body that oversees the registration of all healthcare practitioners in Australia. All nurses must hold valid AHPRA registration — specifically registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA) — before they can legally practice as a registered nurse in Australia.
Trusted by nurses worldwide to build careers and lives in Australia. Share your details and one of our expert advisers will contact you shortly.
Explore global opportunities with a free consultation and take the first step toward your future abroad.
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