Why More Nurses Are Choosing Australia Over the UK (Get Registered in 2025) with Nanelle Griselda ​

If you're an internationally qualified nurse aiming to work in Australia, understanding AHPRA's registration pathways is your critical first step. In 2025, AHPRA introduced six distinct pathways for nurses, but many applicants are now facing confusion about where they fit.

Whether you’re currently registered in the UK, US, Canada (British Columbia or Ontario), Ireland, Singapore, Spain — or you hold qualifications from the Philippines, India, or Nigeria — navigating these new pathways can be complex.

In this blog, we break down why registration is essential before any visa application, what the six pathways involve, and why more nurses are now considering Australia over the UK for their long-term career.

1. Your Career in Australia Starts with AHPRA Registration

One of the biggest misconceptions is that nurses can start applying for visas while “figuring out” their registration later. But here’s the reality — until you’re registered with AHPRA, you are not eligible to apply for any type of Australian visa, whether it’s employer-sponsored or skilled independent.

In 2025, AHPRA introduced six pathways for internationally qualified nurses. However, these pathways are complex, and most nurses struggle to figure out which one applies to them. That’s why understanding your pathway early is key to avoiding costly delays.

2. Which of the 6 AHPRA Pathways Do You Qualify For?

The six AHPRA pathways aren’t something you can choose based on preference — they are determined by strict eligibility criteria, including:

✅ Where you're currently registered (UK, US, Canada (British Columbia or Ontario), Ireland, Singapore, Spain)
✅ Whether you’ve passed exams like the NCLEX or OSCE
✅ If your qualifications were obtained before or after mid-2017
✅ The level of your qualification (Bachelor’s degree or Diploma)

Many nurses get overwhelmed because the pathways are not always clear. It often takes time to get your head around which one applies to you. That’s why we created the Nurse Registration Course — to simplify this process, so you know exactly what’s required and can avoid unnecessary delays.

3. Why More Nurses Are Choosing Australia Over the UK in 2025

While both the UK and Australia remain viable career destinations, more nurses are now choosing Australia due to:
✅ Shorter shifts — 8-hour days instead of 12-hour rosters
✅ Better pay — with salary packaging benefits
✅ Opportunities for visa pathways once AHPRA registration is secured
✅ Faster eligibility for citizenship after four years
✅ Improved work-life balance and family-friendly environments

While both the UK and Australia remain viable career destinations, many nurses are now re-evaluating their options. Factors like shorter shifts, better pay structures, and family-friendly benefits are influencing nurses to consider Australia for long-term career and lifestyle stability. Importantly, once you secure AHPRA registration, you’ll be eligible to pursue both employer-sponsored and skilled independent visa pathways depending on your circumstances.

4. Registration is the First Step to Starting Your Career in Australia

Many nurses delay starting their career journey because they get stuck trying to figure out which AHPRA pathway applies to them. This is where structured courses and legal guidance can save you months of confusion.

At SOLVi Migration, we help nurses understand their registration eligibility first — ensuring that when you're ready to move forward, all your professional requirements are in order. Whether you choose employer sponsorship or a skilled independent visa later, it all starts with registration.

Ready to Figure Out Your AHPRA Pathway?

🌟 If you're serious about working in Australia as a nurse, the first step is figuring out your AHPRA registration eligibility. Join our Nurse Registration Course for clear, step-by-step guidance.

👉 www.nurseregistration.com

🌟 Need personalised legal advice? Book a paid consultation with SOLVi Migration to map out your registration and migration strategy:

👉 www.solvi.com.au

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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