How to Perfectly Use the New Pathway for Nurses to Australia

The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) has opened a game-changing new pathway for internationally qualified registered nurses (IQRNs), especially those from countries like the UK, Ireland, USA, Canada, Singapore, and Spain.

If you’re eligible, this is your chance to secure direct general registration as an RN in Australia—without NCLEX, OBA, CBT, or OSCE. But how do you use this new opportunity perfectly? Here’s your step-by-step guide:

---

Step 1: Confirm Your Eligibility

To apply via the new streamlined AHPRA pathway, you must:

✅ Be a registered nurse in an AHPRA-approved country
✅ Have at least 1,800 hours of nursing practice since 2017
✅ Hold a qualification that meets AHPRA standards

---

Step 2: Prepare All Required Documents

Gather all essential documents before applying:

📄 Passport & ID documents
📄 Nursing qualification certificates
📄 Employment reference letters
📄 Evidence of 1,800+ practice hours
📄 Nursing license/registration proof
📄 English language test results (IELTS, OET, or PTE Academic)
📄 Criminal history check from all countries lived in
📄 CPD certificates and PII proof

---

Step 3: Create an Account on AHPRA Portal

Visit the AHPRA website and register your account under the General Registration for IQRN pathway.
Choose the Qualification-Based or Direct Registration stream, depending on your status.

---

Step 4: Submit the Online Application

Upload your documents, fill in accurate personal/professional details, and pay the application fee. Double-check everything before submitting.

---

Step 5: Wait for Outcome & Respond Promptly

AHPRA usually responds within 1 to 6 months. If they request further documents or clarifications, respond quickly to avoid delays.

---

Step 6: Receive Your RN Registration

Once approved, you’ll be registered with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA).
Congratulations—you can now work as a Registered Nurse in Australia!

---

Bonus Tips to Maximize This Opportunity

✨ Apply early – The pathway is open now, and early applicants may get faster processing.
✨ Get expert help – Agencies like Career Grids can simplify the entire process for you.
✨ Avoid mistakes – Incorrect documents or missed details can delay your registration.

---

Let Career Grids Help You!

At Career Grids, we help internationally qualified nurses make the most of this new pathway. From eligibility checks to complete documentation support, we guide you every step of the way.

📧 Send your CV to jobs@careergrids.com to get started today.