A detailed guide explaining how Indian nurses can convert their nursing licence into Australian registration. Includes AHPRA steps, OBA test process, English scores, documents, timelines, and FAQs.
A detailed guide explaining how Indian nurses can convert their nursing licence into Australian registration. Includes AHPRA steps, OBA test process, English scores, documents, timelines, and FAQs.
Australia continues to be one of the most preferred destinations for Indian nurses seeking high salaries, excellent working conditions, and long-term migration opportunities. However, to work as a Registered Nurse (RN) or Enrolled Nurse (EN) in Australia, Indian nurses must complete a formal registration process through AHPRA (Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency) and meet the eligibility requirements set by the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA).
Australia regulates healthcare workers through AHPRA and NMBA. Indian-trained nurses typically fall under the Outcome-Based Assessment (OBA) pathway, which replaced the old bridging program in 2020. This pathway tests your knowledge, clinical skills, and competence to ensure your training aligns with Australian standards.
| Test | Required Score |
|---|---|
| IELTS Academic | Overall 7.0 (minimum 7.0 in each band) |
| OET Nursing | Grade B in all four modules |
| PTE Academic | 65 in each communicative skill |
| TOEFL iBT | 94 overall (specific minimums per skill) |
Visit the AHPRA portal and complete the self-check for internationally qualified nurses and midwives (IQNM). This determines your pathway (usually OBA).
Required documents (certified copies):
Scores must be recent and often achieved in one sitting (or combined under specific rules).
Processing time: 8–12 weeks. If approved, proceed to OBA.
After passing both exams, AHPRA issues RN or EN registration — valid across all states/territories.
| Stage | Timeline |
|---|---|
| AHPRA application & assessment | 3–6 months |
| English exam | 1–3 months preparation |
| NCLEX-RN | 2–4 months |
| OSCE (in Australia) | 3–6 months |
| Total | 12–24 months |
| Item | Cost (AUD) |
|---|---|
| AHPRA application | 640–800 |
| English test | 400–500 |
| NCLEX-RN | ~400 |
| OSCE | 4,000–4,500 |
| Travel for OSCE | Variable |
No. The OBA pathway is mandatory for most Indian nurses unless assessed as substantially equivalent (which is rare).
Yes, the NCLEX for Australia is the same exam system used in the USA.
No. OSCE is conducted only in Australia.
Registered Nurses earn AUD 70,000–110,000 per year, depending on experience and location.
Yes. Nursing is a high-demand occupation and eligible for multiple PR pathways.
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