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How to Work as a Registered Nurse in Australia from India: Eligibility, Visa Process, and Job Outlook

How Indian Nurses Can Get Jobs in Australia in 2025, Australia is a popular destination for internationally qualified nurses, offering excellent career opportunities, high salaries, and a great lifestyle. If you’re a registered nurse from India looking to work in Australia, here’s everything you need to know about eligibility, the visa process, and how to get started.

Why Work as a Registered Nurse in Australia?

Australia is currently facing a shortage of healthcare professionals, particularly nurses. This demand means more job openings, competitive salaries, and various benefits for skilled migrants. As an Indian nurse, you have a strong chance of finding a rewarding career in Australia, provided you meet the eligibility requirements.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Become a Registered Nurse in Australia from India

1. Meet the Basic Eligibility Requirements

To work as a registered nurse in Australia, you must:

  • Hold a Bachelor of Nursing or equivalent qualification.
  • Be registered with the Indian Nursing Council.
  • Have at least 1-2 years of work experience (preferred).
  • Prove English language proficiency (IELTS, OET, PTE, or TOEFL accepted).

2. English Language Requirements

You must meet one of the following:

  • IELTS: Minimum overall score of 7.0, with no band less than 7.0.
  • OET: Grade B in all four components.
  • PTE Academic: Overall score of 65, with no sub-score below 65.
  • TOEFL iBT: Total score of 94 with minimum scores in each section (Listening – 24, Reading – 24, Writing – 27, Speaking – 23).

3. Register with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA)

All nurses must be registered with the NMBA, regulated by the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). How to Work as a Registered Nurse in Australia

How to Register:

  • Submit qualifications and work experience documents.
  • Provide English test results.
  • Undergo an assessment through the OBA (Outcome-Based Assessment) pathway, which includes:
    • NCLEX-RN exam
    • OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Exam)

Note: As of 2020, Australia has transitioned from the bridging program to the OBA pathway for internationally qualified nurses.

4. Apply for a Visa

There are several visa options for Indian nurses:

a) Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)

  • Points-based visa.
  • Does not require employer sponsorship.
  • Must have a valid SkillSelect EOI and a positive skills assessment.

b) Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)

  • Requires state or territory nomination.
  • More favorable for nurses due to demand in regional areas.

c) Employer-Sponsored Visa (Subclass 482 – TSS Visa)

  • Requires a job offer from an approved employer.
  • Faster processing time.
  • Pathway to permanent residency.

5. Skills Assessment by ANMAC

Before applying for a skilled visa, you’ll need a skills assessment from ANMAC (Australian Nursing and Midwifery Accreditation Council). How Indian Nurses Can Get Jobs in Australia in 2025

Requirements for assessment:

  • Nursing qualification from an accredited institute.
  • Proof of English proficiency.
  • Nursing registration from your home country.
  • Verification of registration (NMC/INC).

6. Look for Nursing Jobs in Australia

You can apply directly through:

  • Government health services (e.g., NSW Health, QLD Health)
  • Private hospitals and aged care providers
  • Job portals like Seek, Indeed, and HealthcareLink

Networking through LinkedIn and joining nursing communities can also help.

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Salary Expectations

As of 2025, the average salary for a Registered Nurse in Australia ranges from AUD 70,000 to AUD 100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and specialization.

Final Tips for Indian Nurses

  • Start your English test and registration early—it can take several months.
  • Consider regional or rural areas for more job opportunities and faster PR options.
  • Consult a registered migration agent if you need help navigating the visa process.

Conclusion

Australia offers a wealth of opportunities for Indian nurses looking to advance their careers. With the right qualifications, English proficiency, and by completing the AHPRA registration and visa process, you can begin a fulfilling nursing career in Australia. Start your journey today!

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