How This Site Helps You
Doctors to Australia is a free, independent resource created specifically for international medical graduates (IMGs) and overseas-trained doctors. We bring together all the information you need in one place so you do not have to piece it together from dozens of government websites, forums, and outdated blog posts.
Every page on this site is organised around the stages of your journey. You can follow the steps in order, or jump straight to the section that matters most to you right now. Our goal is to give you clarity and confidence at every stage.
Your Journey, Step by Step
Here is the typical path an overseas doctor follows when moving to Australia. Each step links to a detailed section of the site.
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Step 1: Understand the Pathways
Australia offers several registration pathways depending on your qualifications, specialty, and experience. These include the Competent Authority pathway, the Standard pathway, the Specialist pathway, and the GP pathway. Start by understanding which one applies to you.
Explore all registration pathways | Compare pathways side by side
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Step 2: Complete Registration and Exams
Most pathways require you to pass the AMC examinations (MCQ and clinical), meet English language requirements, and register with AHPRA. Understand the costs, timelines, and preparation involved.
Registration overview | AMC MCQ exam | AMC clinical exam | English requirements
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Step 3: Secure Your Visa
You will need a visa that allows you to work as a doctor in Australia. The most common options include the 482 Temporary Skill Shortage visa, the 494 Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional visa, and pathways to permanent residency.
Visa options overview | 482 visa | 494 visa | Permanent residency
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Step 4: Find a Job
Learn how to find medical positions in Australia, understand salary expectations, compare public and private employment, and review contracts before signing.
Jobs overview | How to get a job | Salary guide | Understanding contracts
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Step 5: Settle into Life in Australia
Once you arrive, there is much to learn about the cost of living, choosing a city, schools for your children, and achieving a good work-life balance as a doctor.
Life in Australia overview | Cost of living | Best cities for doctors
Not Sure Where You Fit?
If you are unsure which pathway is right for you, or if your situation does not fit neatly into one category, here are some common starting points:
- I am a specialist in my home country — Start with the Specialist pathway to see if your specialty is recognised.
- I trained in the UK, Ireland, USA, Canada, or New Zealand — You may qualify for the Competent Authority pathway, which can be faster.
- I want to work as a GP in Australia — Review the GP pathway for specific requirements.
- I want a broad overview first — Read our complete guide to working as a doctor in Australia.
Useful Resources and Guides
Throughout this site you will find detailed guides that go deeper into specific topics. Here are some of the most popular:
In-Depth Guides
Comprehensive guides covering AMC preparation, AHPRA registration, visa applications, and job searching.
Official Resources
Direct links to AHPRA, AMC, the Department of Home Affairs, and other official bodies you will need to interact with.
Registration Timeline
Understand how long the entire process takes from start to finish, so you can plan ahead.
Registration Costs
A breakdown of all the fees involved in exams, registration, and visa applications.
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.