Big Changes to AHPRA Registration for International Nurses: What You Need to Know in 2025
Dreaming of a better nursing career in Australia? 🌏☀️ With higher pay, better patient ratios, and a lifestyle that’s hard to beat—it all starts with your AHPRA registration.
As of 23 April 2025, AHPRA has rolled out major changes for internationally qualified nurses, opening new doors—especially for those with experience in the UK, Ireland, Canada, Singapore, or Spain.
But knowing which pathway is right for you—and how to avoid delays or costly mistakes—is crucial. Let’s break it down.
✨ What’s New in April 2025?
AHPRA has introduced two new pathways for internationally qualified nurses under its updated registration standard:
1️⃣ Direct Registration: Pathway 1
If you completed your nursing qualification in a comparable country and gained registration there, and you’ve had at least 1,800 hours of clinical practice in that country since 1 July 2017, you may be eligible to apply directly for AHPRA registration —no need for further examinations.
Approved comparable countries include:
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
🇮🇪 Ireland
🇺🇸 United States
🇨🇦 Canada (provinces of Ontario & British Columbia)
🇸🇬 Singapore
🇪🇸 Spain
2️⃣ Direct Registration: Pathway 2
If your nursing qualification not from a comparable country, but you’ve passed a recognized licensing exam like the OSCE or NCLEX in a comparable country, and have also gained registration and experience there, you may be eligible for registration via this new pathway.
This is a game-changer for many of our nurses, who completed their qualifications elsewhere but gained UK registration and experience. Until now, they had to take the long road via New Zealand or face exams like the OSCE or NCLEX. Now, you may be be eligible to register directly in Australia—as long as your portfolio evidence meets the requirements.
⚠️ Note: English language requirements still apply. Be sure to get professional advice to avoid being caught out.
🧭 What About the Existing Streams?
If you don't qualify for new pathways, don't worry, don’t worry. AHPRA has retained the existing three streams.
This pathway is for nurses who obtained their qualifications in approved countries approved (UK, Ireland, Canada, USA, New Zealand, Singapore, Hong Kong), and who also meet AHPRA’s registration and recency of practice requirements.
This is the most common pathway for nurses who completed a bachelor of nursing outside of comparable countries, including many from Africa, Asia and Latin America. These nurses will complete the MCQ exam (NCLEX-RN) and the OSCE exam in Australia in Australia.
English test results and correct documentation are essential for Stream B—don't get caught out by avoidable errors.
This applies to nurses with qualification that does not yet meet AHPRA's requirements. You may be required to complete an Australian-accredited nursing program before becoming eligible for registration.
🇳🇿 What About the NZNC to AHPRA Pathway?
If you’re not eligible for the AHPRA pathways and you’re struggling with the cost or complexity of exams like the NCLEX or OSCE, there’s still another viable option —the New Zealand Nursing Council (NZNC) registration, followed by the Trans-Tasman Mutual Recognition Scheme (TTMRS) into AHPRA.
This process allows you to gain registration in New Zealand first (via the IQN pathway), and then transfer your nursing registration into Australia under the TTMRS agreement. It’s a legitimate and accepted pathway that many of our clients still use—especially those looking for a more cost-effective route. However, it’s important to note that processing times are currently slower due to demand and backlogs in New Zealand, so it may not be the fastest option.
Our team can help you determine whether the NZNC + TTMRS option is suitable for your case.
💡 Why Use SOLVi Migration for Skilled Migration?
Registration is just step one. If your goal is to migrate to Australia independently (without being tied to an employer), you’ll need more than just AHPRA approval.
That’s where SOLVi Migration steps in.
As an Australian law firm specialising in healthcare migration, we offer complete legal support to take you from registration ➡ skills assessment ➡ expression of interest ➡ visa grant—without the overwhelm and uncertainty.
Here’s why our clients trust us:
✅ Led by Rhea Fawole, a former senior Immigration official and Director in Australia’s Department of Health
✅ We are immigration lawyers—not migration agents—so we can advise on registration, employment law, English tests, and complex cases
✅ We partner with the leading providers of English test preparation and for OSCE & NCLEX exam preparation
✅ We’ve helped nurses from the UK, Europe, Africa, and Asia, to secure independent visas and permanent residency—without employer control
✅ We offer flexible payment plans, and a 100% success rate for those who follow our legal strategy.
Don't make the mistake of assuming that registration = visa approval. Skilled migration requires precise legal strategy, and one mistake can delay your visa or cost you thousands.
👩⚕️ Why Join the Nurse Registration Course?
For those who just want help with the AHPRA registration, our nurseregistration.com course is your essential first step.
✔️ Designed by Rhea Fawole, CEO & Principal Lawyer of SOLVi Migration
✔️ Covers all pathways—including the new April 2025 changes
✔️ Includes checklists, walkthroughs, and document preparation guides
✔️ Live monthly sessions for support and updates
✔️ Access to our supportive community and future employment after registration
✔️ Self-paced and cost-effective
We’ve created this course because so many nurses told us they felt confused, lost, and overwhelmed by the registration process. Now, you don’t have to go it alone.
🕒 Australia Is Calling—Don’t Miss Your Window
Whether you’re looking to start your life in Australia independently or with future employer opportunities, the time to act is now.
With the April 2025 changes now in effect, thousands of eligible nurses around the world are about to apply. We expect a significant increase in processing times and application rejections where documentation is incorrect.
🔒 Don’t risk delays or rejections
🎯 Get your AHPRA registration right the first time
📘 Join the Nurse Registration Course
⚖️ Or Book a Legal Consultation with SOLVi Migration for a full skilled migration strategy
🔗 Ready to take the next step?
✅ For help with your visa and legal strategy, book a consultation
We’ll assess your situation and give you a clear legal strategy to successfully migrate to Australia.
✅ Need help with AHPRA registration? Join our Nurse Registration Course.
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.
