How to Get PR for Registered Nurse in Australia

Australia has always been the most preferred destination for registered nurses seeking permanent residency. The country has a high demand for skilled nursing professionals across aged care facilities, hospitals, and community health services.

Given such demand, registered nurses have access to well-structured and defined PR pathways.

Many overseas nurses start their nursing journey with the help of Australian nursing registration consultants to have a clear understanding of registration requirements, eligibility, and visa options.

While getting professional guidance is a priority, you must also understand the entire process.

Keep reading as we explain how registered nurses can get PR in Australia, explained in a step-by-step process.

Why Registered Nurses Are in Demand in Australia

Australia’s healthcare system relies heavily on skilled nurses. Given the aging population, expansion of healthcare services, and rising chronic health conditions, there is a need for registered nurses nationwide.

Nursing occupations are regularly listed on Australia’s skilled occupation sites. This means qualified nurses have direct access to multiple Australian nursing visa pathways that can lead to permanent residency.

Demand exists in both regional and metropolitan areas, creating opportunities for nurses with varied experience levels.

With our in-house team of experts, we provide valid support to nurses by explaining how occupation demand connects with long-term PR planning, eligibility, and points calculation, helping applicants make better-informed decisions.

Step 1: Get Registered with AHPRA

Nursing registration is the first and most important step. Without completing the registration process, you cannot work as a nurse in Australia or apply for PR (permanent residency) pathways.

The registration process is handled by the AHPRA (Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency). This particular authority ensures that nurses meet Australian professional and safety standards.

What AHPRA Checks

AHPRA reviews:

Once your qualification is considered comparable to Australian standards and you meet the English language requirement, you become eligible for registration. Some nurses might need additional assessment steps based on their country of education.

Our expert team of consultants will help in handling the documentation and assessment requirements.

Through our guidance, you can understand the complex AHPRA registration process clearly, further ensuring your application is prepared accurately and aligned with Australian standards.

Step 2: Complete Skills Assessment with ANMAC

Once you have been registered or turned eligible for registration, you must complete a skills assessment for migration purposes. This particular assessment is conducted by the ANMAC (Australian Nursing and Midwifery Accreditation Council).

Having a positive skills assessment confirms that your qualifications and experience meet the respective requirements for skilled migration as a registered nurse.

Why Skills Assessment Is Important

Most PR visas require a valid skills assessment. Without it, your visa application cannot further move forward.

ANMAC assesses:

Skills assessment errors can delay your PR timelines. Our expert consultants will timely assist in preparing accurate skills assessment documentation so that your qualification and experience are presented in line with ANMAC expectations.

Step 3: Meet English Language Requirements

English proficiency is mandatory for both nursing registration and migration.

Accepted English tests include:

Each test has its own set of minimum score requirements. Achieving a higher score improves your points under the skilled migration system. The scores can even increase your chances of receiving a visa invitation.

Our expert consultants will guide you on test selection, score requirements, and how the results can have an impact on both registration and migration outcomes.

Step 4: Understand PR Visa Options for Nurses

Registered nurses can directly apply for PR through several skilled migration visas. Picking the right visa depends on your profile, willingness to work in specific locations, and points score.

Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)

This is a points-tested visa that does not require employer or state sponsorship. It offers direct permanent residency but is highly competitive.

Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)

This visa requires nomination from an Australian state or territory. As an applicant, you must commit to living and working in that state for a set period.

Skilled Work Regional Visa (Subclass 491)

This is a regional visa for nurses willing to work in designated regional areas. It provides a pathway to permanent residency after meeting residence and work conditions.

All these visas form the core structure of RN migration to Australia and are commonly used by overseas nurses.

Choosing the right visa pathway is crucial. Our team of visa-handling experts will help in comparing visa options based on your eligibility, points, and location preferences to support your long-term settlement goals in Australia.

Step 5: Points Test Explained Simply

To apply for nursing courses in Australia, you must meet all the set academic and language criteria.

Achieving higher points can significantly improve your chances of receiving a visa invitation.

We help in identifying areas that you must improve and assist in understanding how various other factors can affect your points, even before applying.

Working with Professional Support

The permanent residency process involves following multiple steps, documents, and strict timelines. Missing documents or errors found in them can cause delays or refusals.

Many nurses choose to hire services from nursing registration consultants to have valid support during the registration paperwork, skills assessment preparation, and visa documentation. Through their guidance, you can ensure that you follow the accurate process and avoid making common mistakes.

From initial assessments to the visa process, our professional consultant support has helped nurses achieve their dreams to work and apply for the PR pathway in Australia.

How Long Does the PR Process Take?

The overall timeline depends on:

In many cases, the process can take several months to over a year. Planning early and submitting the correct documents helps reduce delays.

Timelines vary depending on individual profiles. Our consultants help plan realistic timelines and avoid delays by ensuring each stage is completed in the correct order.

Key Things Nurses Should Plan Early

Registered Nurses planning PR should:

Early preparation makes your PR journey smoother and more predictable.

Conclusion

Permanent residency in Australia is achievable for registered nurses who follow the correct steps. Nursing registration, skills assessment, English language proficiency, and selecting the appropriate visa pathway are crucial components of the process.

With strong demand and well-defined Australian nursing visa pathways, you can certainly elevate your nursing career to achieve good long-term prospects.

At Desma International Private Limited, we support nurses by helping them understand official requirements and navigate the process with clarity and confidence.

We are one phone call away to clear your PR pathway-related queries, provide personalized guidance, and comprehensive support at every step of your personal residency journey in Australia.