Looking to trade city hustle for sandy beaches—or snow for sunshine? For nurses across North and South America, Australia offers an exciting new chapter filled with professional growth, travel, and life balance. But before you can launch your nursing career Down Under, there are key steps to gaining Australian registration. Whether you're from the U.S., Canada, Brazil, Argentina, or anywhere in between, this guide has you covered.
🌐 Step 1: Check Your Eligibility with AHPRA
The first stop is the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) and the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA). They regulate who gets to practice as a Registered Nurse (RN) in Australia.
You'll need to meet these basic requirements:
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A nursing qualification equivalent to Australian standards
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Proof of recent practice (within the past 5 years)
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English language proficiency (even if English is your first language!)
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Good character and health checks
🔍 Step 2: Complete the AHPRA Self-Check
Head to the AHPRA website and complete their Self-check system. This determines which stream you fall under:
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Stream A – For nurses trained in countries with similar education and healthcare systems (e.g., U.S., Canada)
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Stream B – For nurses whose qualifications need additional assessment (e.g., Brazil, Colombia, Peru)
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Stream C – For applicants who need further study before qualifying
Nurses from the U.S. and Canada often fall into Stream A, meaning a smoother path without the need for further exams. Nurses from most South American countries usually fall into Stream B, requiring the Outcome-Based Assessment (OBA).
🧪 Step 3: Pass the OBA (if required)
If you’re in Stream B, you’ll need to complete two assessments:
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NCLEX-RN – A computer-based exam testing your nursing theory. If you’ve already passed NCLEX in the U.S., that may count!
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OSCE – A clinical skills exam conducted in Australia
Many nurses prepare with bridging programs or coaching academies, especially for the OSCE.
📝 Step 4: Apply for Registration
Once you’ve cleared the required assessments, gather your documents and apply through the AHPRA portal. Be sure to include:
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Certified identity documents
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Academic transcripts and qualifications
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Employment history
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English language test results
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Professional references
Once approved, you’ll receive your Australian RN license!
✈️ Step 5: Get a Visa and Find Work
Common visa pathways include:
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Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189)
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State Nominated Visa (subclass 190)
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Employer-sponsored visas
You can find nursing jobs in public hospitals, aged care, mental health, and even rural and remote communities where demand is high.
💡 Pro Tips for North & South American Nurses
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Prepare early—registration can take months
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Keep documents certified and translated (where needed)
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Use global job boards and recruitment agencies
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Join online expat and nursing forums for support
From the Andes to Alberta, your skills are valued in Australia. So pack your passion, bring your compassion, and get ready to start fresh in a land full of opportunity, sunshine, and unforgettable adventure.
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