Migrating to Australia as a nurse offers fantastic opportunities, including a better work-life balance, higher wages, and the chance to work in a highly regarded healthcare system. However, navigating the migration process is often time-consuming and complex. One of the most common concerns from nurses is: “How long does it actually take?”

If you haven’t started yet, your dream of migrating could be indefinitely delayed. The key is to take action now, as the process involves multiple steps, each with its own timeline. In this blog, we'll break down the stages of migrating to Australia as a nurse, from gathering documents to registering with AHPRA or the NZNC, passing required tests, and securing a visa. We'll also emphasise the importance of working with a qualified immigration lawyer avoid costly delays and potential refusals.

Step 1: Gathering Your Documents

The first step is to gather all the necessary documents for your migration and registration. These documents usually include:

• Proof of identity (such as your passport)

• Nursing qualifications

• Employment history or proof of experience

• English language test results

• Additional certificates or licenses that apply to your career

How Long Does It Take?

Depending on how organised you are and how accessible your documents are, this step can take a few weeks to several months. Delays often arise when waiting for responses from previous employers, educational institutions, or licensing bodies. If you need to get documents certified or translated, this will add further time. Being well-prepared and methodical in gathering your paperwork can prevent unnecessary delays later in the process.

Step 2: Verifying Your Documents

Once you've gathered your documents, the next step is document verification. This step is crucial, as it ensures that your qualifications, experience, and other credentials are recognized in Australia.

• AHPRA Pathway: For those applying directly to AHPRA (Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency), verification of your documents is required for registration.

• NZNC Pathway: Nurses using the New Zealand Nursing Council (NZNC) registration pathway must go through the CGFNS (Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools) for document verification.

How Long Does It Take?

The document verification process can vary depending on your pathway:

• AHPRA Pathway: Verification through ANMAC (Australian Nursing and Midwifery Accreditation Council) generally takes 8 to 12 weeks, depending on their workload and the complexity of your case.

• NZNC Pathway: For those going through the NZNC, the CGFNS verification process can take several months. After the CGFNS verification is completed, there is currently a minimum 5-month processing delay before the NZNC progresses your application further. This is a significant waiting period that must be factored into your overall migration timeline.

Step 3: Meeting English Language Requirements

Nurses migrating to Australia must demonstrate English language proficiency by taking a recognized test such as IELTS, OET, or PTE Academic. The specific score requirements vary depending on whether you're applying for AHPRA registration, NZNC registration, or a visa. Generally, the minimum scores are:

• IELTS: A score of 7.0 in each band (reading, writing, listening, and speaking)

• OET: A minimum score of B in each section

• PTE Academic: Equivalent scores that meet AHPRA registration requirements

How Long Does It Take?

Meeting the English language requirement can take a few weeks to several months, depending on your level of proficiency. Many nurses find that they need to retake the test to meet the required scores, which can add time to the process. Additionally, scheduling your test and receiving your results may take several weeks. If English isn’t your first language or you’ve been out of practice, preparing in advance is essential to avoid further delays.

Step 4: AHPRA Registration or NZNC Pathway

To practice as a nurse in Australia, you must obtain registration either through AHPRA or the New Zealand Nursing Council (NZNC). Your choice of pathway will impact the timeline and complexity of your migration process.

AHPRA Pathway

• Direct Registration: Some nurses can apply directly for AHPRA registration. This involves verifying qualifications, English proficiency, and work experience.

• Additional Requirements: Depending on your qualifications and experience, you may be required to complete additional exams such as the NCLEX (National Council Licensure Examination) or an OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Examination). Others may need to undertake bridging programs to upgrade their qualifications to meet Australian standards.

NZNC Pathway

• CGFNS Verification: Nurses using the NZNC pathway must first have their documents verified through CGFNS. Once verification is complete, a minimum 5-month processing delay follows before the NZNC progresses your application.

• NCLEX and OSCE Requirements: After CGFNS verification, you will be required to pass the NCLEX exam, followed by an OSCE in New Zealand to ensure your qualifications meet New Zealand’s nursing standards. Only after completing these steps can you apply for NZNC registration, which can then be transferred to AHPRA via the Trans-Tasman Mutual Recognition Scheme (TTMRS).

How Long Does It Take?

The AHPRA registration process can take up to 6 months, or longer if you need to pass additional exams or complete a bridging program. For nurses going through the NZNC pathway, the process can take up to 12 months or longer, depending on how long it takes to pass the NCLEX and OSCE and navigate the 5-month NZNC processing delay after CGFNS verification.

Step 5: Determining Visa Eligibility

After you’ve gathered your documents, verified them, and obtained registration, the next step is to determine which visa is right for you. Nurses have several visa options to consider, such as:

• Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189): This points-based visa does not require sponsorship and grants permanent residency.

• Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190): Requires nomination by an Australian state or territory and leads to permanent residency.

• Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491): A points-tested visa requiring nomination by a regional state or territory, leading to permanent residency after three years.

• Employer-Sponsored Visas (Subclass 482/186): Requires sponsorship from an Australian employer and can lead to permanent residency via the Subclass 186 visa.

How Long Does It Take?

Visa processing times vary depending on the type of visa, whether state or employer sponsorship is involved, and the current workload of the Department of Home Affairs. On average, processing can take 6 to 12 months or longer. Delays can occur if there is a high demand for skilled visas or if additional information is required for your application.

Where Are You in the Process?

So, how long does it take to migrate to Australia as a nurse? It depends on where you are in the process and which pathway you’re following. Here are some key questions to consider:

• Have you gathered and verified your documents?

• Do you have the required English language proficiency scores?

• Have you completed your AHPRA or NZNC registration?

• Are you ready to apply for the appropriate visa?

The Risks of Going It Alone

One of the biggest mistakes nurses make is trying to handle the migration process on their own or relying on advice from unqualified sources. This not only increases the time it takes but also raises the risk of visa refusal or delays due to incomplete or incorrect documentation. That’s why working with a qualified immigration lawyer is invaluable. These professionals have the experience and knowledge to help you navigate the process, avoid pitfalls, and ensure that your application is properly prepared and submitted.

Plan for Delays and Setbacks

It's important to understand that the migration process is rarely straightforward. Delays can occur at various stages—whether during document verification, English language testing, or the visa application process. Planning for potential setbacks and staying proactive will help you manage the timeline and ensure that you're on track to achieve your goal.

Conclusion: Don’t Delay, Start Now

The process of migrating to Australia as a nurse can be lengthy, taking anywhere from 12 months to two years or more. The key to success is starting early and being prepared for each step. If you delay gathering your documents, verifying your qualifications, or applying for registration, your dream of working as a nurse in Australia may take much longer to achieve.

At SOLVi Migration, we’re here to help you every step of the way. Our experienced team will guide you through the complex process of document preparation, registration, and visa applications.

✅ Book a paid legal consultation with SOLVi Migration today.

We’ll assess your situation and give you a clear legal strategy to migrate independently to Australia.

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Get cost-effective, expert guidance and access to a supportive community so you can secure your AHPRA registration and move forward with your migration plans.

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