Planning to work as a nurse in Australia? Before you can start your journey, there’s one key step you can’t skip, AHPRA nursing registration.
But navigating the registration process can feel overwhelming, especially for international nurses. From anywhere in the world, this complete guide will walk you through every step. From skills assessment to visa pathways, with insider tips to avoid common pitfalls.
Ready to turn confusion into clarity? Let’s get you one step closer to your dream nursing career in Oz!
Table Of Content
1What is AHPRA Nursing Registration2Difference Between AHPRA and ANMAC3AHPRA Registration Requirements for International Nurses4AHPRA Nursing Registration English Requirement5How to Apply for AHPRA Nursing Registration6AHPRA Registration Fee for International Nurses7How to Renew AHPRA Registration8AHPRA Nursing Registration Renewal Cost9Frequently Asked Questions
What is AHPRA Nursing Registration
AHPRA Nursing Registration is the official process that allows internationally qualified nurses and midwives to legally practice in Australia. AHPRA stands for the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency, which works in partnership with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA) to assess and register healthcare professionals.
To qualify, you’ll need to demonstrate:
- Recognized nursing qualifications
- English language proficiency (via IELTS, OET, or PTE)
- Relevant clinical experience
- Compliance with ethical and professional requirements
The process involves document verification, skills assessment, and, depending on your background, potentially a bridging program or Outcomes-Based Assessment (OBA).
Securing AHPRA registration isn’t just paperwork, it’s your key to unlocking exciting nursing opportunities across Australia’s world-class healthcare system!
Difference Between AHPRA and ANMAC
We can discuss the key differences of AHPRA and ANMAC through a table:
| Aspect | AHPRA (Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency) | ANMAC (Australian Nursing and Midwifery Accreditation Council) |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Registers and regulates healthcare practitioners in Australia | Conducts skills assessments for migration purposes |
| Works With | Supports 14 health profession boards, including NMBA | Independent accreditation and assessment body |
| Nursing-Specific Body | Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA) | Solely responsible for assessing internationally qualified nurses and midwives |
| Function | Ensures nurses and midwives meet registration standards to practice in Australia | Evaluates qualifications, skills, and experience for skilled migration eligibility |
| Used For | Legal registration to work as a nurse/midwife in Australia | Required for skilled migration visa applications |
| Common Confusion | Often confused with ANMAC due to overlapping processes | Not involved in professional registration or licensure |
AHPRA Registration Requirements for International Nurses
AHPRA nursing registration requirements are given below
1. Qualifications
Applicants must hold a B.Sc. Nursing, Post B.Sc. Nursing, M.Sc. Nursing, or a Graduate Diploma in Nursing (GDN).
2. Work Experience
A minimum of 3 months of work experience as a Registered Nurse within the past five years is required.
Note: Recent graduates applying for registration for the first time must also meet this experience requirement.
3. English Language Requirements
You must meet the English proficiency requirement by achieving the required score in any one of the following tests:
- IELTS
- OET
- PTE Academic
- TOEFL iBT
AHPRA Nursing Registration English Requirement
To meet the English language proficiency requirements, you must achieve the minimum scores in one of the following approved tests:
- Cambridge (C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency)
- IELTS (Academic)
- Occupational English Test (OET)
- PTE Academic
- TOEFL iBT
- Other tests approved by the National Boards (with required minimum scores)
Note: Test results must come from:
- One test sitting, or a maximum of two sittings within 12 months
- Results must meet the specified requirements, including test timing, type/modality, and minimum scores. The National Boards reserve the right to revoke approval for any test.
How to Apply for AHPRA Nursing Registration
We made it easy for you to understand how to apply for AHPRA nursing registration by providing a step-by-step process.
Step 1: Check Eligibility
1. Hold an approved nursing qualification (Australian or overseas).
Your qualification must be substantially equivalent to Australian standards.
If you are internationally qualified, your qualification may need to be assessed by the Australian Nursing & Midwifery Accreditation Council (ANMAC) or AHPRA.
Some applicants may be required to complete the Outcome-Based Assessment (OBA).
2. English Language Proficiency
Ensure you meet the English language proficiency requirements as specified by AHPRA.
3. Criminal History Check
AHPRA requires a criminal history check from all applicants. If you have lived outside Australia for more than six consecutive months as an adult, you must provide an international criminal history check.
Familiarize yourself with AHPRA’s registration standards, including professional indemnity insurance arrangements, recency of practice, continuing professional development, and others relevant to nursing.
For Internationally Qualified Nurses (IQNs):
Qualification Assessment: Your qualifications will be assessed by AHPRA. As of April 2025, a new registration standard has been introduced, offering additional pathways for eligible internationally qualified registered nurses to obtain general registration in Australia. This standard applies to IQNs who have practiced for at least 1,800 hours in certain comparable jurisdictions.
Step 2: Create an AHPRA Online Account
Visit the AHPRA website and create an account through the online services portal. This account will be used to manage your application and subsequent registration activities.
Step 3: Submit Your Application
Log in to your AHPRA account and select “New Application” under the nursing and midwifery category. Complete the application form with accurate personal details, qualification information, and employment history. Ensure all required documents are uploaded as certified copies.
Step 4: Provide Supporting Documents
Proof of Identity: Provide certified copies of identification documents such as your passport or birth certificate.
English Language Test Results: Submit valid results from an approved English language proficiency test if applicable.
Criminal History Check: Include a criminal history check from your home country and any other country where you have lived for more than six consecutive months as an adult.
Registration Certificates: If you have been registered with other nursing boards, provide certificates of registration.
Curriculum Vitae (CV): International applicants should provide a detailed CV outlining their professional experience.
Ensure all documents are certified by an authorized person, such as a Justice of the Peace or Notary Public.
Step 5: Pay the Application Fee
Fees are subject to change; as of the latest update, the NMBA has set the registration fee at AUD 185 for the 2024/25 period. It’s advisable to check the current fees on the AHPRA website before making a payment.
Step 6: Application Assessment
AHPRA will review your application, which may involve verifying your qualifications and supporting documents. They may request additional information if necessary. Processing times can vary, so ensure your application is complete to avoid delays.
Step 7: Receive AHPRA Registration
Once approved, you will receive your AHPRA nursing registration number, and your name will be added to the Register of Practitioners. This registration allows you to practice legally as a nurse in Australia.
Step 8: Apply for Jobs & Meet Employer Requirements
With your registration, you can apply for nursing positions in various healthcare settings. Be aware that some employers may have additional requirements.
Regulations and procedures can change, so it’s essential to ensure you have the latest information when preparing your application.
AHPRA Registration Fee for International Nurses
The Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA), under AHPRA, has announced that the registration fee for international nurses will remain unchanged at AUD 185 for the 2024/25 period. This fee applies to the annual renewal and will be effective from 18 September 2024, covering the registration period from 1 June 2025 to 31 May 2026. Maintaining the current fee structure helps provide stability for internationally qualified nurses planning to work in Australia
How to Renew AHPRA Registration
Renewing your AHPRA nursing registration as an internationally qualified nurse involves several steps. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:
Step 1: Check Your Renewal Date
AHPRA registration must be renewed annually by May 31 (for nurses and midwives).
You’ll receive a reminder email from AHPRA 6–8 weeks before expiry.
Step 2: Ensure You Meet the Requirements
Before renewing, confirm you meet:
- CPD (Continuing Professional Development) – Minimum 20 hours of CPD per year
- Practice Hours – At least 450 hours of nursing practice in the last 5 years (or equivalent if returning to practice)
- English Language Proficiency (if applicable) – Ensure your IELTS/OET/PTE scores are still valid
- Professional Indemnity Insurance – Must have appropriate coverage
- No Disciplinary Issues – Declare any changes since last registration
Step 3: Log in to Your AHPRA Online Account
Go to AHPRA Online Services. Use your username and password (or reset if forgotten).
Step 4: Complete the Renewal Application
- Select “Renew Registration”
- Verify personal details (address, contact information)
- Declare compliance with:
- CPD requirements
- Practice hours
- English language skills (if applicable)
- Professional indemnity insurance
- Criminal history and health status
Step 5: Pay the Renewal Fee
Fee for 2024–2025: $130
Step 6: Submit and Wait for Confirmation
- AHPRA will review your application (typically 1–2 weeks)
- Check your email and AHPRA account for updates
- If approved, your registration status will update on the national register
Step 7: Print Your Certificate (Optional)
Download your updated registration certificate from your AHPRA online account
What If Your Registration Lapses?
- If you miss the May 31 deadline, you’ll enter a one-month late period (June) with an additional fee
- After June 30, your registration cancels and you must reapply, which is a longer and more complex process
AHPRA Nursing Registration Renewal Cost
The cost to renew your AHPRA nursing registration depends on your profession and whether you hold a single or dual registration. Below are the updated fees applicable.
1. Standard Nursing Registration Renewal Fee (2024–2025)
- Nurse (General): AUD 130
- Midwife: AUD 130
- Nurse & Midwife (Dual Registration): AUD 130 (The fee remains the same for single or dual registration.)
2. Late Renewal Fees (If You Miss the May 31 Deadline)
- June (Grace Period): Additional late fee of AUD 30
- Total Payable in June: AUD 160 (130 renewal + 30 late fee)
- After June 30: Your registration will lapse, and you will need to reapply, which is a longer and more expensive process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is an Australia tourist visa easy to get?
How can I register in AHPRA from India?
Check Eligibility – Ensure your nursing qualification is recognized and aligns with Australian standards. Also, prove English language proficiency.
Skills Assessment – Apply through ANMAC (Australian Nursing & Midwifery Accreditation Council) for a full skills assessment.
AHPRA Application – Create an account and submit your application via the AHPRA Online Services portal. Select the Internationally Qualified Nurse pathway with the required documents.
Wait for Approval – Once approved, proceed to apply for an appropriate Australian visa
What are the CPD requirements for nurses in Australia?
- Nurses registered with AHPRA must complete a minimum of 20 hours of Continuing Professional Development (CPD) annually, aligned with their area of practice.
- Accepted activities include workshops, seminars, online courses, professional reading, or peer discussions.
- You must keep records of your CPD, these may be reviewed during an AHPRA audit.
- If you haven’t been practicing for part of the year, pro-rata exemptions may apply.
- CPD is mandatory for renewing registration by May 31 each year
