Australia has long been a hotspot for skilled migrants, and with the ongoing healthcare staff shortages, nurses are in high demand across the country. In 2025, the Australian government continues to introduce and refine fast-tracked Permanent Residency (PR) pathways specifically tailored for qualified nurses who want to build a life and career down under.
Let’s walk through everything you need to know—from the updated immigration policies to eligibility criteria, and why now might be the perfect time to take that leap.
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Why Australia Is Fast-Tracking Nurses
Australia’s healthcare system has been under pressure for years due to an ageing population and increasing demand for medical services. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted these vulnerabilities, prompting the government to boost its migration intake for essential workers, including nurses.
Nurses are now listed on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL), making them eligible for a range of PR pathways that are faster and more flexible than ever before.
Popular PR Pathways for Nurses
1. Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)
This is a points-tested visa for skilled workers not sponsored by an employer or family member. Nurses are eligible under the MLTSSL.
- Benefits: No sponsorship needed, full work rights, access to Medicare
- Processing Time: Around 6 to 8 months (subject to point score and invitation round)
2. Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)
This visa requires state or territory nomination.
- Popular in: Victoria, Queensland, and New South Wales
- Additional Points: 5 points added for state nomination
- Processing Time: Often faster than Subclass 189 due to targeted nominations
3. Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491)
Ideal for those willing to work in regional Australia. You’ll need state nomination or family sponsorship.
- Pathway to PR: After 3 years, you can apply for PR via Subclass 191
- Bonus: Additional points for regional work and less competition
4. Employer-Sponsored PR Pathways
Many hospitals and aged care facilities are actively sponsoring international nurses through:
- Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (Subclass 482)
- Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186)
If you’re working in Australia under a TSS visa, you may be eligible to transition to PR after a minimum of 2-3 years.
Streamlined Process Through ANMAC
Before applying, international nurses must be assessed by the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Accreditation Council (ANMAC) to ensure their qualifications align with Australian standards.
What’s needed?
- Proof of English proficiency (IELTS, OET, or PTE)
- Valid nursing degree
- Professional registration in your country of origin
- Work experience documentation
States Offering Priority Processing
Queensland
Migration Queensland is actively prioritizing applications from nurses, especially those in aged care, mental health, and rural health services.
Victoria
Health professionals, particularly nurses, are part of Victoria’s workforce priority list for 2025.
South Australia
South Australia offers flexible nomination requirements for nurses willing to work outside metropolitan Adelaide.
Changes in 2025 Worth Noting
- Increased migration cap: The Australian government raised its skilled migration intake for 2025 to over 190,000.
- Simplified English requirements: Some regions now accept a wider range of English tests and offer exemptions for experienced professionals.
- Faster processing: Priority Migration Skilled Occupation List (PMSOL) ensures quicker turnaround times for nursing-related applications.
Why Regional Australia Might Be the Smart Move
The Australian government offers incentives for skilled migrants willing to move to regional areas, including extra points, longer visa durations, and easier PR transitions.
Plus, you’ll enjoy lower living costs, tight-knit communities, and growing health infrastructure in regional towns.
Job Outlook for Nurses in Australia
According to HealthTimes, Australia is projected to have a shortfall of 85,000 nurses by 2030. This makes it an opportune time for international nurses to secure long-term career opportunities.
Top in-demand nursing roles:
- Aged care nurses
- Mental health nurses
- ICU and emergency nurses
- Midwives
- Theatre nurses
Step-by-Step Application Guide
- Check your eligibility using the Australian Government SkillSelect Tool
- Complete your skills assessment through ANMAC
- Sit an English test if required
- Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)
- Get nominated or receive an invitation
- Apply for the visa
- Move to Australia and start your nursing journey
Challenges You Should Be Aware Of
- Strict documentation: Australian immigration can be paperwork-heavy, so attention to detail matters.
- Registration with AHPRA: Apart from ANMAC, you’ll also need to register with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency.
- Cost of living in cities: Consider regional alternatives if budget is tight.
Conclusion
If you’re a qualified nurse eyeing a new chapter abroad, Australia offers some of the most streamlined and supportive PR pathways in the world. With fast-tracked visa processing, high demand, and a welcoming environment for healthcare professionals, 2025 could be your year to make the move.
Get your paperwork in order, choose your ideal pathway, and start your journey toward a new life in the Land Down Under.
