Visa & Regulatory
Two big things stand between a UK RN and an Australian ward: an AHPRA registration and the right visa. We do both for you.
01
UK nationals under 36 can work in Australia for up to 3 years on a 417 visa. The fastest route onto a ward, often used while AHPRA registration is finalised.
02
For senior RNs and midwives, Australian hospital employers sponsor Skills in Demand and Employer Nomination visas - including a direct permanent-residency pathway.
Step by step
Check your eligibility
Confirm you meet the age, passport and other WHV requirements (subclass 417 info here: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/work-holiday-417) Or check other visa options here: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-finder
Create an ImmiAccount
Register on the Department of Home Affairs portal to start your application: https://online.immi.gov.au/lusc/register
Gather your required documents
Identity documents, proof of funds (usually $5,000), character documents (an overseas police certificate may be requested), and health documents (a medical examination may be requested).
Apply online
Submit through your ImmiAccount portal and upload the required documents.
Pay the application fee
The current WHV application fee is $840.
Await your decision
Applications for UK passport holders typically take between 2 and 14 days to process.
Plan your adventure
Once granted, you have 12 months to enter Australia and your visa is valid for 12 months from the date you arrive.
Step by step
Review AHPRA's IQNM information
Read through the important information for internationally qualified nurses and midwives: https://www.nursingmidwiferyboard.gov.au/Accreditation/IQNM/Before-you-apply
Complete the Self Check
You'll be placed into a stream based on your education - applicants who completed their nursing program in the UK/Ireland are placed into Stream A: https://www.nursingmidwiferyboard.gov.au/Accreditation/IQNM/Self-check-and-Portfolio/Completing-the-Self-check
Pay the assessment fee
The current IQNM assessment fee is $410.
Complete Orientation Part 1
An online learning course providing an introduction to Australia and the Australian healthcare context: https://www.nursingmidwiferyboard.gov.au/Accreditation/IQNM/Self-check-and-Portfolio/Orientation-Part-1
Gather your required documents
Certified identity documents, certified evidence of qualifications, statements of service from previous employers, a Certificate of Good Standing (sent directly to AHPRA by the NMC/NMBI), and any further supporting documents relating to criminal history or health declarations.
Pay the application fee
The current application fee for general registration is $332.
Apply for registration
Complete the required application form and provide all necessary documentation.
Await your decision
AHPRA aims to assess applications within four to six weeks of receiving all required documentation - errors or omissions can extend this significantly.
Pay the registration fee
The current registration fee for general registration is $193.
Receive your registration
Once approved, you'll receive your AHPRA registration and can start applying for jobs in Australia.