Registration for overseas nurses and midwives in Australia
Healthcare professionals relocating to Australia must apply for registration with a single governing body regardless of their profession and the state they plan to live and work in.
Whether you’re an overseas nurse or midwife, Espirita guides you through the registration process to minimise delays and expedite your relocation to Australia.
Do I need to register to work in Australia?
Yes, you must apply for and be registered with the relevant national board to work as a nurse or midwife in Australia. Applications are submitted via the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). Once your application has been successful, you’re added to the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA) register.
With your registration, you’re eligible to work anywhere in Australia without needing to register in individual states or territories.
How to apply for nursing or midwifery registration
As a registered nurse or midwife from overseas, the process of applying for your professional registration will depend on the qualifications you hold. You’ll be assigned to one of three streams (A, B, C) which determines your application pathway.
Nurses and midwives from countries with similar nursing qualifications, such as the US, Canada, UK, Ireland and New Zealand, will be generally assigned to Stream A.
The registration process for overseas nurses and midwives in Australia follows these steps:
Before you can apply for registration, you need to complete a Self-check on the AHPRA website. During this process, you provide information about your nursing qualification. This allows AHPRA to assess your qualifications and assign you to one of three streams:
- Stream A: Nurses who hold equivalent qualifications to Australian nursing qualifications
- Stream B: Nurses whose qualifications are not seen as equivalent (requires additional exams)
- Stream C: Nurses without relevant nursing qualifications (must complete an accredited nursing programme before proceeding)
Next, you need to complete Orientation Part 1, which is an online module that introduces you to Australia’s healthcare system and professional standards. It must be completed within 90 days of creating an account after the Self-check and costs AUD $640.
If you’re assigned to Stream B, you’re expected to complete additional steps:
- Provide a portfolio of evidence (such as qualifications, work history and identification)
- Complete an outcome-based assessment relating to nursing, consisting of two exams – a multiple-choice question exam and an Objective Structured Clinical Examination
Once all prior steps have been completed successfully, you’re ready to submit your application to register with the NMBA. The process is handled online, using the application Form AGSE-40 that is made available on your candidate dashboard.
As part of your application, you need to pay a fee of AUD $475 and provide supporting documents, such as:
- Course certificates and academic transcripts
- Proof of identity
- Proof of English skills (e.g. education taught in English or English language test result)
- Employer-backed work history
Make sure to check if your documents need certification before submitting your application. If applicable, you may have to provide additional information on matters such as your criminal history, past or current disciplinary action or suspension, or impairments.
Together with AHPRA, NMBA will assess your application within nine weeks. If successful, you’ll receive the outcome “Registration granted”, allowing you to legally practise as a registered nurse in Australia.
Note that you must complete the online learning module Orientation Part 2 within six months of being added to the register. Failure to do so will result in your renewal being denied until this step is completed.
Your pathway to working and living in Australia with Espirita
The dream of migrating to Australia is shared by 100,000s of people every year. If you want to be one of the many healthcare professionals building a new life down under, Espirita is here to make it happen.
Our team of relocation experts guides you through the process from start to finish, with a five-star support package including:
- Job search and interview preparation
- Registration and visa application support
- Paid travel to Australia, including flights and transfer
- Help to secure accommodation
- Ongoing support once in Australia with keep in touch days and support buddy
And through all of it, we always consider your family as part of the relocation – helping with visas, schools and other necessities so you can settle.
What our candidates say
“Espirita’s all-inclusive support — from licensing exams to relocation and family assistance — demonstrates their commitment to the success of nurses. Thank you for making this journey smooth and stress-free.”
Fouzia, Registered Nurse
Pakistan
“What really stood out was how Espirita helped me prepare from revising my resume and walking me through interviews to licensure and immigration steps.”
Monique, Registered Nurse
Canada
“I would definitely recommend Espirita to other nurses considering relocation. Their professionalism, clear communication and genuine support make a big difference when you’re navigating such a major life change.”
Patience, Registered Nurse
Canada
“The support and guidance provided on licensing, visa processes and job placement have been clear and helpful. The detailed instructions on credentialing were particularly useful.”
Nisha, Registered Nurse
Nepal
Your registration and relocation sorted with Espirita
Whether you’re at the very start of your relocation journey or have already begun applying for registration or a visa, it’s never too late to reach out to Espirita. We’re happy to help you find a healthcare job in Australia, with a team always on hand to answer your questions and provide personalised advice every step of the way.
Register for Australia relocation