ANMAC Expands Assessment Eligibility for International Nurses (IQRNs)

From July 1, 2025, the Australian Nursing & Midwifery Accreditation Council (ANMAC) now allows Internationally Qualified Registered Nurses (IQRNs) to apply for a Full Skills Assessment before they get their AHPRA registration.
This big change makes it faster, easier, and simpler for many nurses around the world to start their migration journey to Australia.

What’s Changed?

Applicants who are currently or previously registered in one of the following countries may now be eligible to complete a Full Skills Assessment before gaining AHPRA registration:

• United Kingdom
• Ireland
• US
• Canada
• Singapore 
• Spain 

Why This Matters for IQRNs

• Shorter Timeline: You can start your skills assessment before getting AHPRA registration, which can cut months off your migration timeline.
• Streamlined Process: Eligible nurses now have a clearer migration pathway.

Eligibility Criteria

You may be eligible if you meet one of the following:

• You completed your initial nursing qualification and are currently registered as a nurse in one of the recognised countries listed above.
• You completed a 3-year nursing qualification after 1 January 2017, gained registration in one of the recognised countries by passing a regulatory exam (e.g. NCLEX-RN), and have completed at least 1,800 hours of paid practice as a registered nurse in that country.

All other criteria for applicants including English language requirements, qualification verification, work experience references, and document submission standards must be met.

Important Considerations

• ANMAC assessment is for migration only—it does not grant the right to practice. You still need AHPRA registration to work as a nurse.
• A positive ANMAC outcome is required for skilled migration or nursing employment visas in Australia.
• Always refer to the official ANMAC website and use the eligibility determination form for accurate guidance.

Step‑by‑Step Guide for IQRNs

Why Guidance Matters When Applying for ANMAC as an IQRN

Many internationally qualified nurses underestimate how complex an ANMAC Full Skills Assessment can be. Even with the new broadened access rules, small mistakes or missing documents can cause major setbacks:

• Visa delays that cost months – submitting an incomplete ANMAC application or misunderstanding eligibility often forces nurses to start over.
• Incorrect document formats – ANMAC has strict compliance standards, a wrong certification or poorly written reference letter can lead to rejection.
• Missed deadlines for English tests or experience verification – timing issues can push your migration plans far into the future.
• Financial loss – each re‑submission means extra fees, additional document procurement, and sometimes lost job opportunities in Australia.

FAQS

Amitava Deb

• Amitava is a gold medallist from India’s premier technical institute, IIT Kharagpur.
• He has worked with some of the world’s top companies such as Sony Australia Pty. Ltd., Siemens AG Germany, Clarity International Ltd., Reliance Communications and Optus Sydney.
• Amitava is a Chartered Professional Engineer accredited by Engineers Australia. He is a full member of this esteemed association.
• He is a member of the Australian Computer Society, Tele Management Forum and Worldwide Institute of Software Architects.
• Amitava is a well-recognised name in the ICT Professional Community in Australia.