Discover your pathway to practicing medicine in Australia. Our experts guide international medical graduates through AMC requirements, visa applications, and finding GP jobs in Australia.
Understand the pathways, requirements, and processes for international medical graduates seeking to work as a doctor in Australia. Health Pro Talent offers personalized guidance for your journey through the Australian medical registration system.
Discover which pathway is most suitable for your qualifications and experience to migrate to Australia as a doctor.
Discover which pathway is most suitable for your qualifications and experience to migrate to Australia as a doctor.
Understand the different visa options available for Australia’s GP recruitment programs.
The Australian Medical Council offers several pathways for international medical graduates (IMGs) to become registered medical practitioners in Australia. The appropriate pathway depends on your qualifications, experience, and country of training.
Competent Authority Pathway
For doctors trained in approved healthcare systems comparable to Australia's
Eligible Countries/Qualifications
United Kingdom
Ireland
United States
Canada
Process Overview
1
Verification of Primary Qualifications
Submit your qualifications to ECFMG for primary source verification through EPIC.
2
Apply to AHPRA
Apply for provisional registration under the Competent Authority Pathway.
3
12-Month Supervised Practice
Complete 12 months of supervised practice in an approved position.
4
General Registration
After successful completion, apply for general registration with AHPRA.
Processing Time & Costs
Processing Time
Approximately 3-6 months depending on document verification
Associated Costs
AHPRA fees + EPIC verification (AU$1,000-2,000 total)
For detailed information, refer to the Australian Medical Council's official guidelines on the Competent Authority Pathway[1]
Standard Pathway
For doctors who don't qualify for the Competent Authority or Specialist pathways
Eligibility Requirements
The Standard Pathway applies to international medical graduates who have graduated from a medical school listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools but do not qualify for the Competent Authority Pathway.
Basic Requirements
Standard Pathway Examinations
AMC CAT MCQ Examination
AMC Clinical Examination
Alternative to Clinical Examination
Instead of the AMC Clinical Examination, candidates can complete one of the following:
Process Overview
1
Primary Source Verification
Submit your qualifications to ECFMG for verification through EPIC.
2
AMC CAT MCQ Examination
Pass the computer adaptive test (theoretical knowledge).
3
AMC Clinical Examination
Pass the clinical examination or complete an alternative assessment.
4
Obtain AMC Certificate
Receive AMC certificate upon successful completion of requirements.
5
Apply to Medical Board of Australia
Apply for provisional or general registration.
Processing Time & Costs
Total Time to Registration
Typically 1-3 years depending on exam scheduling and pass rates
Total Cost
AU$8,000-10,000 including exams, verification, and registration fees
For detailed information, refer to the Australian Medical Council's official guidelines on the Standard Pathway[2]
Specialist Pathway
For internationally-trained specialists seeking recognition of their qualifications
Specialist Recognition Routes
Specialist Recognition
Area of Need
For positions in geographical areas with doctor shortages, allowing specialists to practice while completing assessment.
Specialist Recognition
Specialist Assessment
For specialists seeking full recognition of overseas qualifications by relevant Australian college.
Specialist Recognition
Short-term Training
For specialists seeking temporary registration for specialist training in Australia (up to 2 years).
Assessment by Specialist College
Your specialist qualifications will be assessed by the relevant Australian specialist college. Each college has specific requirements and assessment procedures.
| College | Specialties Covered | Assessment Timeframe |
|---|---|---|
| Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) | General Practice | 3–6 months |
| Royal Australasian College of Physicians (RACP) | Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, and other physician specialties | 6–12 months |
| Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists (RANZCP) | Psychiatry | 3–9 months |
| Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS) | Surgical specialties | 6–12 months |
| Australian College of Emergency Medicine (ACEM) | Emergency Medicine | 3–6 months |
| Major Australian Medical Colleges and Their Specialties | ||
Process Overview
1
Primary Source Verification
Submit your qualifications to ECFMG for verification through EPIC.
2
Application to Specialist College
Apply to the relevant specialist college for assessment of your qualifications.
3
Assessment and Requirements
Complete any required assessments, interviews, or additional training.
4
Registration with MBA
Apply for specialist registration with the Medical Board of Australia.
Costs & Processing Times
Assessment Time
Typically 3-12 months depending on specialty college
Assessment Fees
AU$4,000-8,000 depending on specialty college and assessment type
For detailed information, refer to the Australian Medical Council's official guidelines on the Specialist Pathway[3]
International medical graduates have several visa options when considering work as a doctor in Australia. The appropriate visa depends on your circumstances, length of stay, and career goals.
Duration: Up to 4 years
Family: Can include family members
Duration: Permanent
Family: Can include family members
Duration: Permanent
Family: Can include family members
Duration: 5 years
Family: Can include family members
Duration: Permanent
Family: Can include family members
Duration: 5 years
Family: Can include family members
All international medical graduates must demonstrate English language proficiency unless exempt. There are two main tests accepted for medical registration in Australia.
Academic Module
Minimum scores required:
Band 7 in each component
Listening
7.0
Reading
7.0
Writing
7.0
Speaking
7.0
Validity:
Results must be obtained within 2 years prior to application
Cost:
Approximately AU$375-395
Medicine Specific Test
Minimum scores required:
B in each component
Listening
B
Reading
B
Writing
B
Speaking
B
Validity:
Results must be obtained within 2 years prior to application
Cost:
Approximately AU$587
Advantage:
Specifically designed for healthcare professionals with medical scenarios
United Kingdom
Ireland
United States
Canada
New Zealand
South Africa
Navigating the AMC pathways and visa processes can be complex. Health Pro Talent provides comprehensive support to international doctors seeking to migrate to Australia as a doctor and join our clinics.
Opportunity to join our growing network of medical centers across Australia as part of our GP recruitment program.
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