So I've been asked by a few people what the process of becoming a nurse in Australia. I figured I go ahead and make a few blog posts on my experience and hopefully it will help. So enjoy! This is the way I did it. I encourage you to do your own research and figure out the best path. I've included links that took me hours to figure out what-went-where and will definitely assist in educating you on the process.
The first thing you need is apply to AHPRA . Applying is mainly just a lot of paperwork you will need letters from your former employers, transcripts, proof of identity, your state board of nursing to send in a verification letter, a resume' (CV) and patience. Follow the directions on the application exactly and you should do fine. With my application AHPRA requested another letter from my nursing school with a breakdown of the clinical and theory hours. I do not recall that being on the list of required documents but they might ask for it. It does take a month or so to get an answer.
Once you are approved for a license you will get a letter that states you're eligible to be a registered nurse. After you will need to physically arrive at the AHPRA office and provide: 1. proof of identity (passport and printed copy of your visa) and 2. evidence of Australian residential address or an original letter with an offer for employment.
I worked with an agency and had a letter. And opened a bank account with Commonwealth Bank online before I arrived. Its also important to note this is probably the only time you will need an actual print out of your visa. When I arrived they specifically asked for a printout of my visa.
If you are under 30 you can do a working holiday visa (this is what I did) and this allows you to stay for 1 year. Its a good way to take a look and make sure moving overseas is right for you. Since the USA does not have a working holiday visa many countries won't offer it to USA citizens. Australia is one of the few that does. Since your working in healthcare for the visa you will need a physical, chest x-ray and blood work. Once you apply for the visa make sure you schedule the appointment with a doctor ASAP in the event there's a delay in appointments. You will need a few forms to take to the doctor from the visa application so its a good idea to have the printer handy or make sure you can save it to thumb drive.
If you're over 30 you will need either sponsorship Healthcare Australia can give your more information on that (let them know I sent you I might get a little bonus). The application for agency nursing is almost as long as the application for AHPRA! And you will need two referrals from supervisors.
The other option is the 189 Independent skilled visa. I'm currently working on the 189 visa and will keep you updated on how it goes. You will need to be assessed my ANMAC and then invited to apply for the visa. You will need many of the same documents used for AHPRA.
Did I mention its a LONG application and a lot of paperwork?!?! It will get frustrating. Take one step at a time and it will work out. Keep copies of everything. You will need them later. I made the mistake of sending an original document and it's been frustration trying to get my former employer to write a new letter.
I hope this helps! Later I will share more on life in Australia and the adventures of being a nurse Down Under.
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