Nursing Careers

Applying for a working visa

An overseas nurse cannot work in Australia, even if registered, without a working visa.
In order to work in Australia as a nurse you must:

• Be registered with a State Nurses Board
• Sponsored by an employer
• Be Nominated for a particular position by that employer
• Apply for a working Visa for that position

Does this sound complicated? It is!

• It is difficult to accomplish by yourself, or with an agent who does not have partnerships with employers
• Finding a Sponsor/Employer is difficult for the following reasons:

• The employer will not be able to employ you until you are registered.
• Employers are not familiar with your education and training
• Many employers have had mixed experiences with overseas nurses
• Their concerns include;
  • Nurses resigning after a short time in the job.
  • Wasted investment of time, education and training.
  • Nurses with inadequate skill levels.
  • Language and communication problems.
  • Nurses not respecting Australian workplace regulations.
  • Significant recruitment costs (up to $20,000).
  • The Department of Immigration requires employers to assume significant obligations
• There is risk for you if you travel to Australia without a sponsor.
• You may not find a suitable employer
• The study visa can expire before you have found an employer
• Your relocation experience will be stressful and difficult

Nursing Careers will do this for you and assist every step of the way

• To understand what we do, read “how we help you find a sponsor”

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