US BSN planning to work in Australia

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Hi I'm a US graduated international RN planning to move to Australia by the end of this year. I have several questions abt the immigration process for RN in Australia. If there're previous posts regarding this issue, would anybody redirect me to those threads pls? Any response would be greatly appreciated!!!

First, I've been worked in the US as a ICU nurse for about a year. Should i apply for the license of the province i planned to go to or is my US license eligible for working there (i.e. do i need to take a RN test as NCLEX again?)

Second, if i need to arrange for a employment before i arrive there, what kind of visa do i need to get in order to go there for interviews and all that? (Is this kind of visa easy to get?) Or do most people just arrive the country before they secure an employment? What is the normal order? To apply for VISA or employmeny? Is it possible to get a visa before getting an employment?

Third, sounds like i still need to take IELTS even though i graduated in the states, true?

Thanks so much for your attention!

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Specializes in Medical and general practice now LTC.

You need to apply for licensure to the state in Australia you want to live and work. There is no exam to take but they will require a local license in the country you trained so having NCLEX is good :) IELTS will depend on the state you apply and whether English is your first language or not. (that is my understanding)

Generally you need a visa sorted before you move to the country. There are a few threads discussing Australia have you tried searching for them?

Moving this to the International forum as per the red banner

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You need to apply for licensure to the state in Australia you want to live and work. There is no exam to take but they will require a local license in the country you trained so having NCLEX is good :) IELTS will depend on the state you apply and whether English is your first language or not. (that is my understanding)

Generally you need a visa sorted before you move to the country. There are a few threads discussing Australia have you tried searching for them?

Moving this to the International forum as per the red banner

Thanks for the response, SilverDragon! I did some searching for the related threads in this forum but came up with different suggestions. For some visa, no employment is required, whereas for others, employment is a pre-requisition. I'm wondering which path do most people choose (which visa subclass?), independent skilled migrant or those sponsored by an employer? And how to find a matching employer when you're physically in the US?

Thanks so much!!!

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Specializes in Medical and general practice now LTC.

Some aspect of getting a visa will depend on your age. Some age out at 45 years of age. To find a employer just contact hospitals where you want to work, they will more than likely have experience with foreign trained nurses. Probably have more luck with employers once you have meet state requirements

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Specializes in CTICU.

I have previously posted website links - best way to get a job is to apply online or email the nurse manager. If you have ICU experience and want to work ICU, you'll have no problems getting a job. I can give you a contact if you are interested in Melbourne.

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