Are you a nurse dreaming of moving to Australia and thinking employer sponsorship is your fast track to permanent residency? Spoiler alert: It’s not that simple!

While employer sponsorship can be an essential step, many internationally qualified nurses make the mistake of thinking it's a straightforward process. In this blog, we break down what employer-sponsored permanent residency really involves—so you’re prepared for the road ahead.

Step 1: AHPRA Registration – The Foundation of Your Migration Journey

Before you even think about employer sponsorship, you must secure your registration with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). This is non-negotiable—without it, employers won’t be able to sponsor you.

Why is AHPRA registration so important?

✅ It proves your qualifications meet Australian standards.

✅ It ensures you have the required English proficiency.

✅ It makes you eligible to work in the Australian healthcare system.

Many nurses mistakenly believe they can apply for jobs and sort out registration later. Unfortunately, that’s not how it works! Employers usually won’t hire you unless your AHPRA registration is finalised.

🔹 Pro Tip: Start the AHPRA registration process as early as possible—it takes time and requires detailed documentation.

Step 2: Employer Sponsorship – What It Really Covers (and What It Doesn’t)

Another common misconception is that employer sponsorship will cover all migration costs. While some employers may help with visa-related expenses, most financial responsibilities will still fall on you.

What sponsorship may cover:

✅ Sponsorship and nomination fees

✅ Labour market testing costs

✅ Legal fees for the employer’s processes (not yours)

What sponsorship does NOT cover:

❌ AHPRA registration fees

❌ English language tests

❌ Health and police checks

❌ Visa application fees

Important: Visa application fees are non-refundable. If something goes wrong you won’t get your money back. Plan ahead with qualified migration advice and budget for your migration expenses!

Step 3: Your Path to Permanent Residency – Understanding Temporary Visas

For most nurses, a temporary visa is the first step toward permanent residency. The two most common employer-sponsored visas are:

🔹 Subclass 482 (Skills in Demand Visa) – Requires at least a two-year commitment before becoming eligible for permanent residency sponsorship, although many employers won’t do this until you’ve completed a four-year visa.

🔹 Subclass 494 (Skilled Employer-Sponsored Regional Visa) – Provides a pathway to independent permanent residency after three years in a designated regional area.

But what if you get permanent residency immediately? Even then, you’re required to stay with your sponsoring employer for at least two years. Leaving before this period could impact your residency status.

If you have at least three years of experience in a country with similar healthcare standards (such as the UK, US, Canada, Ireland, Spain or New Zealand), you may be eligible for direct permanent residency. However, the two-year commitment to your employer still applies.

Final Thoughts: What You Need to Do Next

✔ Step 1: Secure your AHPRA registration before applying for jobs.

✔ Step 2: Plan your migration budget—your employer won’t cover everything.

✔ Step 3: Understand that most nurses start with a temporary visa before PR.

Employer sponsorship can be a fantastic opportunity, but you need to approach it with realistic expectations. With careful planning, financial preparation, and the right knowledge, you can confidently navigate your journey to Australian permanent residency.

DISCLAIMER: This content is for educational purposes only and nothing in this content or its description constitutes legal advice. For advice on your personal circumstances, please make an appointment at SOLVi Migration www.solvi.com.au/Copyright SOLVI PTY LTD 2025.

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🔹 Website: www.solvi.com.au

Rhea Fawole

Rhea’s passion for migration comes from 12 years of experience in senior roles at the Australian Immigration Department, including working in the Immigration Minister’s office. She has extensive knowledge in government liaison and policy and has helped countless skilled workers to successfully migrate to Australia.

SOLVi Migration was founded with a vision to help skilled professionals like you navigate Australian migration with confidence.

👉 Visit: www.solvi.com.au