2025 Complete Guide to Nursing Migration to Australia: Pathways, Requirements, Salaries, and Latest Policies

Introduction

Australia has long been one of the most popular destinations for overseas nurses seeking migration. With an aging population, growing demand for healthcare, and the lingering impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on workforce capacity, the demand for nurses in Australia continues to rise. According to the latest report from the Department of Health, Australia will need more than 100,000 additional nurses over the next decade to fill widening gaps in the healthcare system. For overseas nurses with professional qualifications, 2025 remains a golden opportunity to migrate to Australia. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of migration pathways, application processes, salaries, and policy trends to help aspiring applicants prepare with the latest information.

Overview of Nursing Migration Pathways to Australia

The Australian government offers multiple migration pathways, and because nursing is listed on the Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL), applicants benefit from greater flexibility and higher success rates.

1. Skilled Migration

The most sought-after option is the Subclass 189 Skilled Independent Visa, which allows applicants to apply independently through a points-tested system without employer sponsorship. Other options include:

• Subclass 190 State-Sponsored Visa: Requires nomination by a state government, increasing chances of receiving an invitation.

• Subclass 491 Regional Visa: Allows applicants to live and work in designated

  regional areas, offering additional points and a pathway to permanent residency.

2. Employer-Sponsored Visas

Some nurses secure employment through Australian hospitals or healthcare providers, applying first for the Subclass 482 Temporary Skill Shortage Visa, and later transitioning to the Subclass 186 Employer Nomination Scheme Visa for permanent residency. This pathway is particularly suitable for applicants with confirmed job offers.

3. Study-to-Permanent Residency Pathway

Many nurses choose to further their studies in Australia, such as a Graduate Diploma in Nursing, a Master’s degree, or a Bridging Program. After graduation, they can register with AHPRA (Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency) and apply for skilled migration or employer sponsorship. Although more time-consuming, this pathway enhances competitiveness in the local job market.

Key Requirements for Applicants

To successfully migrate to Australia, nurses must meet the following criteria:

• Qualifications and Assessment: Possess an internationally recognized nursing qualification and pass AHPRA’s assessment. Some applicants may need to complete additional coursework or examinations.

• English Proficiency: Most applicants must achieve at least IELTS 7.0 in each band or OET Grade B in all components. Higher scores provide advantages under the points system.

• Age and Work Experience: Skilled migration generally requires applicants to be under 45 years old. More clinical experience equates to higher points.

• Health and Character Checks: Applicants must undergo a medical examination and provide police clearance certificates.

Main Application Steps

1. Overseas Qualification Assessment: Submit documents to AHPRA and, if required, undertake the Outcome-Based Assessment (OBA).

2. ANMAC Skills Assessment: Applicants for skilled migration must also pass the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Accreditation Council (ANMAC) skills assessment, separate from AHPRA registration.

3. Submit EOI (Expression of Interest) & Points Test: Points are awarded based on age, education, English proficiency, and work experience. A score of 70+ points is generally considered competitive.

4. Visa Application: Once invited, applicants submit a formal visa application to the Department of Home Affairs.

Nursing Job Prospects by State

• New South Wales (NSW): Sydney offers abundant healthcare resources, with high demand for specialist nurses in ICU, emergency, and aged care.

• Victoria (VIC): Melbourne is a healthcare and education hub with many opportunities, though competition is strong.

• Queensland (QLD): Significant workforce shortages exist in Brisbane and regional areas. Nurses willing to work in rural or regional communities enjoy strong advantages.

• South Australia, Western Australia & Other States: Severe shortages in rural and remote regions create more job opportunities, along with additional migration points, incentives, and allowances.

Salaries and Benefits

Australia ranks among the top globally in terms of nurse compensation, making it highly attractive to overseas applicants:

Average Salary: Registered nurses typically earn between AUD 70,000–95,000 annually, with specialist or senior nurses earning over AUD 110,000.

Earnings  vary significantly across different states and territories:

• New South Wales (NSW): approx. A$90,000–95,000

• Victoria (VIC): approx. A$88,000–92,000

• Queensland (QLD): approx. A$90,000–95,000

• Western Australia (WA): approx. A$93,000–95,000

• South Australia (SA): approx. A$85,000–90,000

• Tasmania (TAS): approx. A$80,000–84,000

• Northern Territory (NT): approx. A$92,000–95,000

• Australian Capital Territory (ACT): approx. A$81,000–85,000

Working Hours & Allowances: Nurses are paid weekly, with penalty rates for night shifts, weekends, and public holidays.

Benefits: These include access to Medicare (universal healthcare), annual leave, sick leave, and superannuation contributions for retirement savings.

Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them

• High English Language Requirements: Consider targeted OET preparation courses or personalized study plans.

• Lengthy Assessment Process: AHPRA and ANMAC reviews may take several months—prepare documents in advance.

• Adapting to Local Life: Cultural and workplace differences can be eased by joining Chinese community groups or attending local nursing training programs.

2025 Policy Highlights and Trends

• Nursing Remains a Priority Occupation: Migration quotas are increasing, and processing times are faster.

• Rising Regional Healthcare Demand: The government offers more incentives to attract nurses to regional areas, such as bonus points, financial rewards, and housing support.

• Long-Term Demand Growth: Official data shows demand for nurses will grow by more than 20% over the next decade, ensuring stable and ongoing job opportunities.

Conclusion

Overall, 2025 remains an exceptional opportunity for overseas nurses to migrate to Australia. Whether through skilled migration, employer sponsorship, or study-to-residency pathways, nurses enjoy multiple advantages. The keys to success are early planning, strong English proficiency, completing credentialing processes, and selecting the right visa pathway. For nurses seeking global career development, there has never been a better time to begin a new journey in Australia.

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