Australian Nursing Registration
For internationally qualified nurses and midwives (IQNMs) interested in pursuing employment opportunities in Australia, it is essential to carefully consider the information regarding immigration, registration, and employment within the Australian healthcare system.
To practice as a nurse or midwife in Australia, registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA) is mandatory. Additionally, a visa issued by the Australian Department of Home Affairs may also be necessary. Please note that these application processes are distinct, and success in one does not guarantee success in the other. It is strongly advised against making irreversible decisions, such as resigning from current employment or relocating to Australia, until NMBA registration has been approved. The processing time for registration applications varies depending on individual circumstances. Further details on visa applications, including skills assessments, can be found on the Australian Department of Home Affairs - Immigration and citizenship website.
For international applicants registered in New Zealand, certain entitlements are available under the Trans-Tasman Mutual Recognition Act 1997 (Cth). Applications for registration with the National Board should be submitted via the provided link. It is important to understand the difference between ANMAC (immigration) and NMBA (registration) assessments. The Australian Nursing and Midwifery Accreditation Council (ANMAC) is authorized to conduct skills assessments for migration purposes. At the same time, Ahpra assesses registration applications on behalf of the NMBA. ANMAC considers work experience, while the NMBA primarily assesses qualifications for equivalence to Australian standards. Consequently, approval for skilled migration does not guarantee meeting NMBA registration requirements. International applicants must fulfill all registration standards and qualification criteria to be eligible for registration.
Neither Ahpra nor the NMBA are involved in employment matters; therefore, we cannot assist in securing employment or influencing employment outcomes. Registration with the relevant National Board is required before commencing employment in Australia. It is advisable to postpone job applications until registration eligibility is confirmed.
Internationally qualified nurses and midwives may opt to pursue further education in Australia to upgrade their qualifications through an NMBA-approved program of study. Admission to such programs is subject to the specific entry requirements of each education provider, and neither Ahpra nor the NMBA are involved in this process.