Registered Nurses nec.
ANZSCO 254499
Registered nurses are consistently among the highest-demand occupations for Australian migration. Australia faces an ongoing nursing shortage across hospitals, aged care, community health, and general practice. All states actively recruit international nurses, making this one of the strongest occupation choices for skilled migration.
At a glance
- ANZSCO code
- 254499
- Occupation list
- MLTSSL CSOL
- Eligible visas
- Subclass 189, Subclass 190, Subclass 491, Subclass 482, Subclass 186, Subclass CSOL pathway
- Assessing authority
- ANMAC
Eligible visa subclasses.
Subclass 189 - Skilled Independent
Points-tested, no sponsorship needed. Direct permanent residency.
Subclass 190 - Skilled Nominated
State-nominated with 5 bonus points. Permanent residency.
Subclass 491 - Skilled Work Regional
Regional visa with 15 bonus points. Pathway to PR via 191.
Subclass 482 - Temporary Skill Shortage
Employer-sponsored temporary visa. Pathway to 186 PR.
Subclass 186 - Employer Nomination
Employer-sponsored permanent residency.
State nomination availability.
Based on current state occupation lists. Availability changes regularly - check official state websites for the latest.
Other states may also nominate this occupation. View all state nomination guides.
Migration tips.
- ANMAC assessment requires a nursing qualification comparable to an Australian bachelor degree, plus current registration in your home country. The modified skills assessment for 190/491 applicants may have different requirements.
- English requirements are higher for nurses - you generally need IELTS 7.0 in each band (or equivalent) for AHPRA registration, which is required before you can practise in Australia.
- Consider the 491 regional visa pathway - regional and rural Australia has the most acute nursing shortages and states are very keen to nominate nurses for regional positions.
Frequently asked questions.
What English score do I need as a registered nurse?
For AHPRA registration (required to practise in Australia), you need IELTS 7.0 in each band, OET B in each component, or PTE Academic 65 in each section. This is higher than the standard skilled migration English requirement.
How long does the ANMAC skills assessment take?
ANMAC assessments typically take 8-12 weeks. You will need certified copies of your qualifications, registration evidence, and identity documents. The process involves verifying your nursing education against Australian standards.
Can I work as a nurse in Australia before getting PR?
Yes, nurses on 482, 491, or bridging visas can work while their PR application is being processed. You will still need AHPRA registration. Many employers sponsor nurses directly on the 482 visa.
Which nursing specialties are most in demand?
Aged care, critical care and emergency, mental health, and perioperative nurses are particularly in demand. Regional areas have the most acute shortages across all specialties.
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