AHPRA Just Made It Easier for International Nurses to Work in Australia

Big changes are happening for international nurses wanting to work in Australia. The new registration standard for internationally qualified nurses took effect in April 2025, and it's cutting wait times dramatically.

What's Changed?

The numbers tell the story: 16,622 internationally qualified nurses registered to work in Australia last year – three times more than before COVID. Australia desperately needs nurses, and AHPRA is responding by streamlining the process.

Registration wait times have dropped from 9-12 months to just 1-6 months. Even better, experienced nurses from approved countries with at least 1,800 hours of practice may be eligible for direct registration without additional assessments.

That means some nurses can skip the OSCE entirely and get straight to work.

Does This Apply to You?

The fast-track option works if you're an experienced nurse from a comparable jurisdiction (UK, US, Canada, New Zealand, and others) with substantial recent practice. If you qualify, you could be working in Australia within months instead of over a year.

But here's the reality: most international nurses will still need to complete the OSCE pathway. The streamlined process helps, but the OSCE remains the standard route for ensuring all international nurses meet Australian practice standards.

Why This Matters for Your Career

Australia's healthcare system is actively welcoming international nurses because the workforce shortages are real. Whether you go through streamlined registration or the OSCE route, there are jobs waiting – in hospitals, aged care, community health, and specialized areas like disability services.

The government isn't just making registration easier; they're investing in long-term workforce planning that recognizes international nurses as essential to Australia's healthcare future.

Your Next Move

Check if you qualify for streamlined registration first. If not, start preparing for your OSCE now. The exam is rigorous, but with proper preparation, you'll not only pass but feel confident stepping into Australian healthcare.

At Aus Nursing Hub, our OSCE Review Package is specifically designed for international nurses navigating these changes. We provide the self-paced learning, intensive training, and mock exams you need to succeed.

The doors to Australian nursing have never been more open. The question isn't whether there's opportunity – it's when you'll take it.