Nursing jobs in Australia with visa sponsorship present one of the most reliable pathways for skilled healthcare professionals seeking international career growth.
With an ageing population, expanding healthcare services, and a growing demand for qualified staff, Australia continues to list nursing as a priority profession on its Skilled Occupation List.
This means overseas nurses have excellent opportunities to secure employment, obtain employer-sponsored visas, and even transition to permanent residency.
For nurses with the right qualifications, AHPRA registration, and English proficiency, this is not just a job opportunity but a chance to build a stable and rewarding career in a country that values and invests in healthcare professionals.
Can Overseas Nurses Be Sponsored in Australia
Yes, overseas nurses can be sponsored in Australia when an eligible employer cannot fill a role locally.
The main employer-sponsored pathways are the Skills in Demand visa (subclass 482), the Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional visa (subclass 494) for designated regional areas, and the Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186) for permanent residence; in some locations, Designated Area Migration Agreements (DAMA) enable sponsorship via a labour agreement.
To qualify, the job must be a genuine full-time vacancy, paid at or above both the indexed skilled-visa income threshold and the local market rate, with equivalent terms and conditions to Australian staff. Employers usually must meet Labour Market Testing requirements.
What Sponsorship Means For nurses
Employer sponsorship allows Australian health services to hire overseas nurses where there are workforce gaps. All sponsored roles must be genuine full time, paid at or above indexed salary thresholds, and meet the local market rate.
Independent practice requires AHPRA registration with the NMBA, usually via the IQNM process and the OBA pathway for many internationally qualified nurses.
Visa Options For Nurses
1. Skills in Demand visa 482
Who it suits: Nationwide employers needing experienced Registered Nurses, Enrolled Nurses, or Midwives across specialties.
Streams: Core skills, specialist skills and labour agreement for approved regional or sector agreements
Key requirements
- Employer is an approved sponsor and lodges a nomination that matches your ANZSCO occupation
- Salary clears the indexed threshold on guaranteed earnings and satisfies the market rate
- Labour Market Testing usually required
- You hold or will obtain AHPRA registration and meet English, health, and character rules
Stay and rights: Temporary residence with full work rights for the sponsoring employer. Family members can usually be included with work and study rights
Pathway to permanent residence: Potential transition to Employer Nomination Scheme 186 when eligibility is met
Best for: Acute care hospitals, aged care, mental health, perioperative and critical care units needing experienced staff now
2. Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional visa 494
Who it suits: Health services in designated regional areas including rural and remote hospitals and aged care providers.
Key requirements
- Employer is an approved sponsor for a regional role
- Occupation and duties match the nominated ANZSCO code
- Salary meets indexed thresholds and market rate
- Labour Market Testing usually required
- AHPRA registration, English, health, character and any site clearances
Stay and rights: Provisional residence tied to a regional location with full work rights for the sponsor
Pathway to permanent residence: Regional permanent option through subclass 191 when residence and income conditions are met
Best for: Nurses open to relocating to regional or remote Australia and seeking a structured path to permanency
3. Employer Nomination Scheme 186
Who it suits: Experienced nurses with an employer ready to nominate for permanent residence.
Streams: Direct Entry where criteria are met. Temporary Residence Transition after time on a qualifying sponsored visa such as 482
Key requirements
- Approved sponsor and compliant nomination
- Salary meets indexed thresholds and market rate
- AHPRA registration and evidence of skills and experience
Best for: Senior or experienced nurses with a stable offer and a hospital willing to sponsor for permanency
4. Designated Area Migration Agreements DAMA via labour agreements
When to use: A regional authority has a DAMA that supports health roles with local concessions.
What it can offer
- Targeted concessions for English, salary, or age
- Clear occupation lists for regional workforce needs
- Sponsorship typically under 482 or 494, with potential pathways to 186 where the agreement allows
Requirements: Employer obtains DAMA endorsement and uses the approved labour agreement for the nominated role. You still need AHPRA registration and must meet health, character, and English rules unless a concession applies
Best for: Nurses aiming for specific regional locations where a DAMA is active and employers need tailored settings
Registration and Licensing for Practice in Nursing Jobs in Australia with Visa Sponsorship
Before international nurses can begin working in nursing jobs in Australia with visa sponsorship, they must complete the registration and licensing process. This ensures that all healthcare professionals meet Australia’s high standards of patient safety and professional competence.
Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) Registration
All nurses must register with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) before practicing. AHPRA evaluates whether your nursing qualifications, professional skills, and training meet Australian standards.
Registration categories include Registered Nurse (RN), Enrolled Nurse (EN), and Midwife, depending on your qualifications.
Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA) Standards
The Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA) sets the professional standards, codes of conduct, and registration requirements.
To qualify, applicants must demonstrate:
- Completion of an approved nursing program (or an equivalent overseas qualification).
- English language proficiency through IELTS, OET, PTE Academic, or TOEFL iBT.
- Proof of recent clinical practice or evidence of nursing competence.
Qualification Assessment and Bridging Programs
- If overseas qualifications are not fully aligned with Australian standards, nurses may be required to undertake:
- A bridging program or Outcome-Based Assessment (OBA) to demonstrate clinical competence.
- These programs often include theoretical exams and practical assessments.
Professional Indemnity Insurance
Registered nurses must hold professional indemnity insurance to cover legal and professional responsibilities while practicing.
Renewal of Registration
Nursing registration is not a one-time process. They must renew registration annually, meet continuing professional development (CPD) requirements, and uphold ethical standards.
Licensing for Sponsored Nurses
Once registered, a nurse with visa sponsorship can legally practice in hospitals, clinics, aged care facilities, or community health services.
Employers offering sponsorship often assist with the AHPRA registration process as part of relocation support.
Salary and Conditions for Nurses in Australia with Visa Sponsorship
When considering nursing jobs in Australia with visa sponsorship, one of the most attractive aspects is the competitive salary packages and favorable working conditions offered to international nurses.
Average Salary for Nurses in Australia
The salary for nurses in Australia is influenced by factors such as experience, qualifications, specialization, and location. On average:
- Registered Nurses (RNs): earn between AUD 65,000 – AUD 85,000 per year.
- Enrolled Nurses (ENs): typically earn AUD 55,000 – AUD 70,000 per year.
- Specialist Nurses (such as critical care, midwifery, or aged care): can earn up to AUD 90,000 – AUD 120,000 annually.
- Nurse Managers or Senior Roles: may exceed AUD 120,000 per year, especially in metropolitan hospitals.
Working Conditions for Sponsored Nurses
Visa-sponsored nurses in Australia enjoy the same protections and benefits as local employees under the Fair Work Act, including:
- Safe working environments in hospitals, clinics, and aged care facilities.
- Standard working hours of around 38 hours per week, with options for overtime and penalty rates for night shifts, weekends, and public holidays.
- Access to superannuation contributions (retirement savings paid by employers).
- Paid leave entitlements, including annual leave, sick leave, and parental leave.
- Opportunities for career development and training, often supported by employers who sponsor visas.
Factors Affecting Salary and Conditions
Several elements influence how much a nurse earns and the type of work environment they experience:
- Location – Nurses working in rural and remote areas often receive higher pay and additional benefits due to workforce shortages.
- Specialization – Skills in high-demand fields such as intensive care, mental health, or aged care lead to better pay.
- Experience – Senior nurses with more years of practice earn significantly higher salaries.
- Type of Employer – Public hospitals, private facilities, and aged care centers may offer different salary scales and benefits.
- Visa Sponsorship Agreement – Some sponsorships include relocation assistance, housing support, or allowances to attract overseas talent.
Eligibility Checklist for Nursing Jobs in Australia with Visa Sponsorship
To qualify for nursing jobs in Australia with visa sponsorship, international applicants must meet specific professional, educational, and visa requirements. Below is a detailed checklist to guide you:
1. Educational Qualifications
- Hold a recognized nursing degree or diploma equivalent to Australian standards.
- Proof of academic transcripts and course details may be required for assessment.
2. AHPRA Registration
- Apply for registration with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA).
- Provide evidence of nursing qualifications, English proficiency, and identity documents.
- Meet AHPRA’s nursing competency standards before practicing in Australia.
3. English Language Proficiency
- Demonstrate strong communication skills through approved tests such as:
- IELTS (Academic) – Minimum overall score of 7.0 with no band less than 7.0.
- OET (Occupational English Test) – Minimum score of B in all four components.
- PTE Academic or TOEFL iBT – Equivalent scores accepted.
4. Professional Experience
- Have recent nursing experience (usually 1–2 years minimum).
- Certain visa sponsorships may prioritize applicants with experience in critical care, aged care, or rural health services.
5. Skills Assessment
- Complete a skills assessment through the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Accreditation Council (ANMAC) for migration purposes.
- Provide evidence of work references, qualifications, and professional registration.
6. Health and Character Requirements
Undergo a medical examination to prove fitness to work in healthcare. Provide a police clearance certificate from your home country and any other country lived in for 12+ months over the last 10 years.
7. Visa Eligibility
- Apply for a visa that supports employer sponsorship, such as:
- Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa – Subclass 482
- Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Visa – Subclass 186
- Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (RSMS) Visa – Subclass 187
- Ensure your occupation is listed on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL).
8. Employer Sponsorship
- Secure a job offer from an approved Australian employer.
- Employer must be willing to sponsor your visa and provide proof of genuine need for skilled nursing staff.
How to Find Legitimate Sponsors and Avoid Pitfalls
Securing nursing jobs in Australia with visa sponsorship can be life-changing, but it is equally important to ensure that the employer and sponsorship process are genuine and legitimate.
Unfortunately, some international applicants fall victim to scams or misleading offers. Below is a guide on how to identify trusted sponsors and avoid common pitfalls.
Check Employer Accreditation
Only employers approved by the Australian Government as Standard Business Sponsors can legally sponsor overseas nurses.
Before accepting an offer, confirm that the employer is an authorized sponsor.
Use Recognized Job Platforms
Look for nursing positions on official job boards, healthcare recruitment agencies, and hospital career pages. Reputable sources reduce the risk of fraudulent job postings.
Verify Job Offer Details
A legitimate sponsor will provide a formal employment contract with clear terms such as salary, working hours, visa type, and relocation benefits. Genuine contracts always comply with Australian workplace laws.
Seek Professional Advice if Needed
If unsure, you can consult a registered migration agent to verify sponsorship details before proceeding with applications.
Step by Step Application Process for Nursing Jobs in Australia with Visa Sponsorship
You will run two tracks in parallel. The immigration track for your visa and the professional track for AHPRA registration. Success depends on keeping both tracks aligned and fully evidenced.
Step 1. Define your role and target pathway
Map your job to the correct ANZSCO occupation such as Registered Nurse 2544xx, Midwife 254111, or Enrolled Nurse 411411.
Decide your visa route. Typical options are Skills in Demand 482, Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional 494, Employer Nomination Scheme 186, or a DAMA labour agreement pathway in certain regions.
Confirm you can work genuine full time and are open to designated regional areas if using 494 or a DAMA.
Step 2. Start the AHPRA registration track
Begin the IQNM process and prepare your portfolio with identity, qualifications, registration history, and employment evidence. Complete Orientation Part One when invited.
Meet the English language standard using an accepted test or education pathway. Keep results valid through decision time.
If directed, complete the OBA. For many Registered Nurses this includes NCLEX RN and a clinical OSCE. For Enrolled Nurses an MCQ exam and OSCE may apply.
Undergo criminal history checks and provide any extra evidence requested. If you are offshore, you may receive registration in principle. Final identity checks will occur in person before activation.
Step 3. Secure a compliant employer and offer
Confirm the hospital or health service is an approved sponsor or has a labour agreement.Obtain a written position description that matches your ANZSCO duties and unit.
Ensure the offer passes both pay tests at the same time (Indexed salary thresholds on guaranteed base pay and Market rate for the grade and location)
If required, the employer conducts Labour Market Testing and keeps full evidence. For the 494, verify the worksite is in a designated regional area. For DAMA, confirm the occupation and any concessions.
Step 4. Build your evidence pack
Prepare a single, clearly labelled folder with:
- Passport and consistent civil documents
- AHPRA registration status or registration in principle and any IQNM OBA results
- English language evidence
- Employment statements and clinical references with duties, units, and dates
- Immunisation records, TB screening where required
- Police certificates, and state based clearances such as Working With Children Check and NDIS Worker Screening if relevant
- Any post graduate certificates, ALS or ACLS, IV certification, theatre or critical care competencies
- Signed employment contract with classification, hours, base pay, penalties, allowances, and superannuation
Step 5. Employer lodges the nomination
The sponsor submits the nomination for the agreed visa and stream.
They attach Labour Market Testing evidence where required, the position description, contract, and pay justification to prove market rate and the relevant indexed threshold.
Step 6. You lodge the visa application
Lodge your visa referencing the nomination. Upload identity, AHPRA or IQNM documents, English, police, immunisation, and any family member evidence. Book any health examinations or biometrics as instructed.
Step 7. Respond to requests quickly
Monitor for Requests for Further Information and reply within the deadline using a short cover note and clearly named files.
If anything material changes such as job location or family details, submit a change in circumstances notice.
Step 8. Decision and grant
On approval, review the visa grant notice for conditions, travel validity, and work rights. If you applied onshore, note any bridging visa conditions that applied during processing.
Step 9. Pre arrival and activation tasks
Book travel and accommodation near the worksite. Schedule your AHPRA final identity check if you hold registration in principle. Your registration becomes active after this step.
Complete Orientation Part Two if applicable and gather any remaining fit testing or medical documents the employer requires.
Quick Readiness Checklist
- I understand my scope of practice, unit competencies, and the plan toward permanent residence
- My role and duties match the correct ANZSCO code
- I have AHPRA registration or registration in principle and I have completed any OBA requirements
- My contract passes both the indexed salary thresholds and market rate tests on guaranteed base pay
- My employer is an approved sponsor and has completed Labour Market Testing where required
- My English, police, health, immunisation, WWCC, and NDIS evidence is ready
Conclusion
To work as a nurse in Australia with visa sponsorship, you must align two tracks at the same time. The immigration track requires a compliant employer and salary.
The professional track requires AHPRA registration, which for many internationally qualified nurses includes IQNM and the OBA with NCLEX RN and OSCE or equivalent assessments.
Keep your English, recency, CPD, PII, criminal history, and immunisation evidence current. Once registered and credentialed, you can commence safe, lawful practice with your sponsoring health service.