Are you an internationally qualified registered nurse (IQRN) dreaming of working in Australia? Good news—the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA) has announced a new registration standard for IQRNs that comes into effect from April 2025.
This new standard simplifies and clarifies the pathway to general registration, but it also introduces specific eligibility requirements you must meet. Here’s everything you need to know.
Who This Applies To
This new standard is designed for:
Nurses who hold a relevant nursing qualification
Nurses seeking general registration to practice in Australia
However, it does not apply to:
Nurses with a sole qualification in mental health, paediatrics, or disability nursing
Nurses with qualifications that are already considered substantially equivalent to Australian standards
Pathways to Registration: Choose Your Route
The NMBA has introduced two pathways for internationally qualified nurses based on where and how you obtained your nursing qualification.
Pathway 1: If You’re from a Comparable Country
This route is for nurses who completed their education and registration in an NMBA-approved comparable jurisdiction. The NMBA-approved comparable international jurisdiction includes UK, US, Canadian provinces of British Columbia and Ontario, Ireland, Singapore and Spain.
Requirements:
- You must have accumulated at least 1,800 hours of practice as registered nurse in any of NMBA-approved comparable country since January 1, 2017.
- A statement from employer confirming that the required hours of practice were completed.
- A Certificate of Good Standing from a regulatory authority recognized by the NMBA- approved comparable jurisdiction.
- Fulfillment of the following NMBA standards:
* Criminal history check
- Continuing professional development (CPD)
- English language proficiency
- Recency of practice
- Professional indemnity insurance
- Applicants should submit a portfolio of evidence that demonstrates they meet the eligibility criteria corresponding to the pathway.
Pathway 2: If You’re from a Non-Comparable Country
If you were educated in a country not on the NMBA’s approved list, you can still apply—through Pathway 2.
Requirements:
- A relevant qualification is not earned from NMBA’s approved list of jurisdiction since January 1, 2017.
- Successful completion of a regulatory examination process for internationally qualified registered nurses in any of the NMBA-approved comparable jurisdictions.
- Holding general registration as a registered nurse in any NMBA-approved comparable jurisdiction at any time since 1 January 2017.
- You must have accumulated at least 1,800 hours of practice as registered nurse in any of NMBA-approved comparable country since January 1, 2017.
- Fulfill all five NMBA registration standards listed above
What If You Don’t Qualify?
Unfortunately, if you don’t meet the criteria under either pathway, you won’t be eligible for general registration. You may need to pursue further qualification or awaits updates from NMBA.
What Is a Comparable Jurisdiction?
According to the NMBA, a “comparable jurisdiction” is a country, state, or province that:
Has similar education and registration standards
Follows regulatory processes aligned with Australia
The NMBA approved comparable jurisdiction are US, UK, Canadian provinces of British Columbia and Ontario, Ireland, Singapore and Spain.
Why This Matters
Australia has a strong demand for skilled nurses, and this new system:
Provides clarity and structure for international applicants
Recognizes experience and qualifications
Helps nurses transition smoothly into the Australian healthcare system
Final Tips for Aspiring International Nurses
- Start gathering documents: academic records, registration proof, employment references
- Verify your jurisdiction: Check if your country is considered “comparable”
- Prepare for exams: If you’re in Pathway 2, plan for the regulatory exam
- Stay updated: Visit nursingmidwiferyboard.gov.au for updates
Ready to Begin?
If you’re serious about practicing as a nurse in Australia, now is the time to prepare. Understanding the right pathway can save you time, money, and stress. Whether you’re eligible for Pathway 1 or 2, the NMBA’s new standard offers a structured way forward for internationally qualified nurses.
