Pathway Update for International Nurses Seeking to Work in Australia (2025)

 Australia continues to welcome internationally qualified nurses to address healthcare workforce shortages. As of 2025, key updates have streamlined the process for overseas nurses. The Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA), under the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA), now requires applicants to complete the Self-check assessment. Based on the outcome, nurses may need to complete the Orientation Program, the Outcome-Based Assessment (OBA) (for internationally qualified registered nurses), or provide additional documentation.

The OBA includes a multiple-choice exam and a practical clinical exam (OSCE), ensuring international nurses meet Australian standards. English language proficiency remains essential, with accepted tests including IELTS, OET, and others.

On the visa side, skilled migration remains a viable route, particularly under the Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) and Employer Sponsored visas (e.g., subclass 482). Some states also offer nomination pathways through their own skilled programs.

Australia is prioritizing healthcare workers in its migration planning, making it an opportune time for international nurses to apply. However, applicants should stay updated via official channels such as the NMBA website or Home Affairs.

Congratulations You are now an AUS RN

Now, after finishing your bridging program anywhere in Australia, all you need to do is patiently wait for your registration number. I know some of you will be in front of the computer all day and kept on typing your last name in the AHPRA registers of practitioners to check if you are already registered. However, you do not have to do this, it is due to the fact that, once you have your registration number your case officer will contact  you by email with your registration number and user ID for AHPRA website log in.

Always remember that each case officer in AHPRA has different approach in sending their applicants registration number. One of the best example can be seen below. (Click the image to enlarge)