What Is Limited Registration?

Limited Registration is a category of medical registration in Australia that allows overseas-trained doctors to practise under supervision in approved positions, typically in areas where there is a demonstrated shortage of medical practitioners. These positions are designated as "areas of need" by state or territory health authorities.

This type of registration is intended to address workforce shortages while providing overseas doctors with the opportunity to gain clinical experience in Australia and work toward meeting the requirements for general or specialist registration. Limited Registration is not a permanent registration type — it is granted for a specific position, employer, and location, and must be renewed annually.

Many overseas doctors use Limited Registration as a stepping stone. While working under supervision, they can prepare for and sit AMC examinations, gain fellowship with a specialist college, or build the experience needed to qualify for other registration pathways.

Area of Need and Supervised Practice

Positions eligible for Limited Registration are located in areas of need, which are determined by state and territory governments based on workforce data. These positions are most commonly found in:

  • Regional and rural areas — Many regional, rural, and remote communities across Australia face ongoing doctor shortages. These locations offer the majority of area of need positions. Learn more about regional work opportunities.
  • Outer metropolitan areas — Some positions on the fringes of major cities are also classified as areas of need.
  • Specific specialties — Certain medical specialties may be declared areas of need even in metropolitan locations if there is a workforce gap.

When practising under Limited Registration, you will work under the supervision of an approved medical practitioner. The level of supervision varies depending on your experience and the requirements set by the Medical Board of Australia. Supervision may be direct (on-site) or indirect (available for consultation), depending on the circumstances.

Your supervisor will provide regular feedback and assessment reports to AHPRA, which are considered when you apply to renew your registration or progress to a different registration category.

How to Obtain Limited Registration

  1. Secure a position — Find and accept a position that has been approved as an area of need by the relevant state or territory health authority. Many employers actively recruit overseas doctors for these roles.
  2. Employer sponsorship — Your employer will typically sponsor your visa application and support your registration application.
  3. Meet English requirements — Provide evidence of meeting AHPRA's English language requirements.
  4. Apply to AHPRA — Submit your application for Limited Registration to AHPRA, including your qualifications, position details, supervision arrangements, and employer confirmation.
  5. Registration granted — If approved, you will receive Limited Registration tied to your specific position and location. You can begin practising under supervision.
  6. Annual renewal — Limited Registration must be renewed each year. You will need to demonstrate continued employment in an approved position and satisfactory supervision reports.
  7. Progress toward full registration — While working, prepare for AMC examinations or college assessments to eventually transition to general or specialist registration.

Visa Implications and Related Resources

Limited Registration is closely linked to visa arrangements. Most doctors on Limited Registration hold an employer-sponsored visa such as the Subclass 482 visa or the Subclass 494 visa for regional positions. Understanding the visa requirements alongside registration requirements is essential for planning your move to Australia.

Working in a regional area of need may also provide advantages for permanent residency applications and access to additional support programs.

Related Pages

Important Planning Note

This page is designed as practical guidance for overseas doctors and should be used alongside official requirements published by AHPRA, the AMC, relevant specialist colleges, and the Department of Home Affairs.

Rules, fees, and processing times can change. Before lodging any application, verify current criteria directly with official sources listed on our Resources page.