Registered Nurses — Australia Visa Sponsorship
Primary route: Subclass 189 Skilled Independent (points-tested)
Why Registered Nurses matter in Australia
Registered Nurse is consistently on the Skilled Occupation List with high invitation numbers in Subclass 189 draws. Regional nursing roles qualify for Subclass 491 with faster pathways and PR bonus points.
Visa rules overview
Fastest path for many overseas nurses: AHPRA registration + skills assessment via ANMAC + Subclass 189 (no sponsor needed, points-tested). Current rounds invite RNs at 65-75 points. Regional nursing via 491 typically needs fewer points.
Available routes:
- Subclass 482
- Subclass 186
- Subclass 189 (Skilled Independent)
- Subclass 491 (Regional)
Top Australian sponsors for Registered Nurses
- NSW Health
- Victorian Health Services
- Queensland Health
- Ramsay Health Care
- Healthscope
Common hiring cities: Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, Regional Australia
Australian certification requirements
AHPRA registration via the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA). Internationally-qualified nurses may need bridging programs.
Frequently asked questions
Can I get a Australia visa as a Registered Nurse?
Fastest path for many overseas nurses: AHPRA registration + skills assessment via ANMAC + Subclass 189 (no sponsor needed, points-tested). Current rounds invite RNs at 65-75 points. Regional nursing via 491 typically needs fewer points.
Which companies sponsor Registered Nurses?
NSW Health, Victorian Health Services, Queensland Health, Ramsay Health Care, Healthscope — plus smaller and regional employers not listed.
What salary should I expect?
Typical range: AUD 75,000 – 130,000 AUD. Salaries trend higher at large-cap tech, finance, and consulting employers.
Do I need local certification?
AHPRA registration via the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA). Internationally-qualified nurses may need bridging programs.