
Are you an overseas qualified medical practitioner dreaming of practicing medicine in Australia?
If so, you are not alone.
Australia offers a diverse and vibrant healthcare system, attracting skilled professionals from around the globe. However, the process of gaining registration and to lodge an application for a visa to Australia to practice medicine can be complex and requires careful navigation of various pathways set by the Australian Medical Council (AMC) and Australian Health Practitioners Regulation Agency (AHPRA). In this guide, we’ll break down some of the different pathways available for International Medical Graduates (IMGs) and Overseas Trained Professionals (OTPs) to achieve registration and pursue their medical careers in Australia.
IMGs whose medical qualifications are from a medical school outside of Australia or New Zealand and are seeking to register to practice in Australia must be eligible to register via one of the following pathways:
Competent Authority Pathway:
This pathway is for IMGs whose primary qualification (MBBS Degree) is from one of the following approved competent authorities.
- General Medical Council (United Kingdom – for the PLAB examination or for graduates of GMC accredited medical courses in the United Kingdom)
- Medical Council of Canada
- Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates of the United States (USMLE)
- Medical Council of New Zealand (NZREX)
- Medical Council of Ireland (graduated of medical council accredited by the Medical Council of Ireland)
- National Board of Osteopathic Medical Examiners (COMLEX – USA)
If you meet the above criteria, you may be eligible to apply for provisional registration via the Competent Authority Pathway provided you meet certain other requirements.
If you don’t qualify for the Competent Authority Pathway, don’t worry, there are still options available. You may still be eligible to apply for registration via various other pathways.
If your primary qualification in medicine and surgery is awarded by a training provider recognized by both the Australian Medical Council and World Directory of Medical Schools, you may be able to apply for assessment via the pathways mentioned below.
Standard Pathway:
Step 1 – Pass the AMC CAT MCQ (Multiple Choice Questions)
Step 2 – Secure a training position in Australia.
Step 3 – Apply to AHPRA for Limited Registration – Standard Pathway
Step 4 – The employer nominates you for an Australian Employer sponsored Visa for the training position in Australia.
Step 5 – You lodge an application for Australian work visa (related to your nomination) to work with the employer who nominates you.
Step 6 – Work in the training position in Australia under supervision
Step 7 – Pass the AMC Part 2 examination.
Step 8 – Apply for General Registration
Specialist Pathway:
A: Short Term Training Pathway:
This pathway is for IMGs who are specialists in training or overseas trained specialists wanting to undertake a short period (up to a maximum of 24 months) specialist training or advanced training in Australia.
Step 1 – Obtain a training position in Australia.
Step 2 – Apply directly to the relevant college for assessment by a specialist medical college for suitability of the training position.
Step 3 – Apply to AHPRA for Limited Registration – Short term training pathway or Provisional registration if eligible via competent authority.
Step 4 – The employer nominates you for an Australian Employer sponsored Visa for the training position in Australia.
Step 5 – You lodge an application for Australian work visa (related to your nomination) to work with the employer who nominates you.
Step 6 – Work in the training position in Australia under supervision (for up to a maximum of 24 months).
This pathway does not lead to registration as a specialist in Australia. If you are seeking to qualify for specialist registration you must apply via the specialist pathway – specialist recognition.
B: Specialist Recognition
Step 1- If you are an overseas trained specialist, you can apply to the relevant specialist medical college in Australia to assess comparability of your specialist qualifications obtained overseas.
Step 2 – Obtain a suitable position depending on the outcome advice from the specialist college.
Step 3 – Apply to AHPRA for Limited Registration – Specialist pathway or Provisional registration if eligible via competent authority.
Step 4 – The employer nominates you for an Australian Employer sponsored Visa for the training position in Australia.
Step 5 – You lodge an application for Australian work visa (related to your nomination) to work with the employer who nominates you.
Step 6 – Train/ work in the position to meet the requirements outlined by the relevant specialist college.
Step 7 – Apply for specialist registration with AHPRA after the specialist college grants recognition.
Navigating these pathways can be challenging, but with the right guidance and preparation, you can achieve your goal of practicing medicine in Australia. It is essential to stay informed about the latest requirements and regulations set by the AMC and AHPRA, seek support from professional organizations and networks and be persistent in pursuing your dreams.
At Anagram Australian Immigration Solutions Pty Ltd, we comprehend the intricacies of the registration process for IMGs / OTPs in Australia. Our team of specialists delivers thorough assistance and guidance to aid you in smoothly navigating the pathways to medical practice in in Australia. Reach out to us today to discover how we can support you in your path to becoming a registered medical practitioner in Australia. Additionally, explore the possibility of self-funded training programs pathway.
You can also explore pathways to apply for Permanent Residence (PR ) in Australia once you meet the registration requirements.