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Nursing Occupations in Australia: Courses and PR Pathway

Australia’s healthcare system relies heavily on qualified nurses and the demand for skilled professionals in this field continues to grow. For international students, nursing is not just a rewarding career choice but also a strong and strategic pathway to Permanent Residency (PR).

If you’re passionate about helping others and want to build a secure future in Australia, here’s everything you need to know about nursing courses and the PR pathway.

 

Why Choose Nursing in Australia?

Nursing is one of the most in-demand and respected professions across the country. It offers:

  • Strong job security
  • High starting salaries
  • Opportunities across public and private sectors
  • Consistent listing on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL)

Whether you’re aiming for long-term residency or just looking to gain valuable healthcare experience, nursing is a career that delivers on all fronts.

 

Popular Nursing Courses for International Students

  1. Bachelor of Nursing
  • Duration: 3 years
  • Outcome: Registered Nurse (RN)
  • Eligibility: High school graduates or those with a diploma background
  • PR Pathway: Yes (via skills assessment and visa subclass 189, 190, or 491)
  1. Master of Nursing (Graduate Entry)
  • Duration: 2 years
  • Outcome: Registered Nurse
  • Ideal For: Students with a non-nursing bachelor’s degree
  • Accredited by: Australian Nursing and Midwifery Accreditation Council (ANMAC)
  1. Diploma of Nursing
  • Duration: 1.5 to 2 years
  • Outcome: Enrolled Nurse
  • Note: Enrolled Nurses are eligible for employment but PR options are more limited than for RNs

 

 

 Nursing PR Pathway: Step-by-Step Guide

 

 Step 1: Complete an Approved Nursing Program

  • The course must be approved by the NMBA (Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia)
  • Must include clinical placements and meet English language proficiency standards

 Step 2: Apply for AHPRA Registration

  • Once you complete your nursing qualification, register as a Registered Nurse (RN) with AHPRA

Step 3: Apply for Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)

  • This visa gives you 2 to 3 years to live, study, and work in Australia
  • Use this time to gain local work experience and prepare for your PR application

Step 4: Skills Assessment

  • Apply through ANMAC (Australian Nursing and Midwifery Accreditation Council)
  • Meet English proficiency: typically IELTS Academic 7.0 in all bands (or PTE equivalent)

Step 5: Apply for PR via General Skilled Migration

Choose from the following visa subclasses:

  • Subclass 189 – Skilled Independent Visa
  • Subclass 190 – Skilled Nominated Visa (requires state nomination)
  • Subclass 491 – Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa

 

 

Where Are Nurses in High Demand?

  • Regional and rural areas across Australia (especially in aged care and mental health)
  • Public hospitals, private clinics, community health centres, and aged care facilities
  • States like Queensland, Victoria, South Australia, and Tasmania actively nominate nurses for PR

 

 

 Tips for a Successful PR Outcome

  • Focus on completing a course that leads to AHPRA registration
  • Aim for high English test scores (IELTS/PTE)
  • Choose to study or work in regional areas for higher PR points
  • Gain local work experience during your 485 visa
  • Seek guidance on state nomination criteria for subclass 190/491

 

 

Start Your Nursing Career with Confidence

Nursing in Australia offers more than just a stable career. It’s a direct gateway to permanent residency and long-term success. With the right education, work experience, and strategic planning, international students can secure a future in one of Australia’s most vital industries.

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