This page outlines the different pathways to registration for International Medical Graduates (IMGs) seeking to practice medicine in Australia, including competent authority, standard, specialist, and expedited specialist pathways, with guidance on eligibility and application steps.
Important note
Applicants must obtain an Ahpra registration before applying for a visa to Australia. Visa applications are processed through the Department of Home Affairs ImmiAccount portal. If being sponsored by an employer, a Transaction Reference Number (TRN) must be included in the visa application. For information on specialist medical college requirements, employment options, and Medicare provider numbers, applicants must contact the relevant specialist colleges, state/territory health departments, and Services Australia respectively.
Eligibility Criteria
6 criteria- Be an internationally qualified medical practitioner (IMG) with medical qualifications gained outside Australia or New Zealand
- Meet specific pathway requirements - Competent Authority pathway requires assessment by a competent authority and practice in a competent authority country
- For Standard pathway: Not eligible for Competent Authority or Specialist pathway
- For Specialist pathway: Must have an international specialist medical qualification
- For Expedited Specialist pathway: Must have an international specialist medical qualification on the Board's Expedited Specialist pathway accepted qualifications list
- For Short term training pathway: Must be a specialist IMG or specialist IMG in training seeking short period training (usually up to 24 months)
- Use the checklist for your specific pathway to gather all required documents
- Proof of medical qualifications gained outside Australia or New Zealand
- Evidence of competent authority assessment (for Competent Authority pathway)
- Evidence of practice in a competent authority country (for Competent Authority pathway)
- Specialist medical qualification documentation (for Specialist pathways)