Registration & Visa Timeline
A step-by-step guide to becoming a registered GP in Australia, from your first research through to your first day in practice.
Moving to Australia as a GP involves several stages that run in parallel and sequence. This timeline gives you a realistic overview of the entire journey, from initial research through to seeing your first patients. Timelines vary depending on your qualifications and chosen pathway.
Research & Decide
Explore whether Australia is right for you. Research locations, lifestyle, pay rates, and registration requirements. Join the GP2Aus community to hear from GPs who have already made the move.
Explore Job Opportunities
Browse available GP positions across Australia. Many employers will sponsor your visa and support you through the registration process. Securing a job offer early can shape your visa and pathway choices.
Primary Source Verification & AMC Portfolio
Start your PSV through ECFMG/EPIC and create your AMC portfolio. This step is required regardless of which pathway you intend to follow. Begin as early as possible, as institutional verification can take time.
Select Your Registration Pathway
Based on your qualifications, choose the pathway that fits your situation. The three pathways diverge significantly in time, cost, and requirements.
Expedited registration for MRCGP+CCT (from 2007), MICGP+CSCST, or FRNZCGP (from 2012) holders, with 6 months supervised practice
Comparability assessment (8-12 weeks) then 6-12 months supervised practice through RACGP
AMC MCQ ($2,920) and clinical ($3,000) exams followed by supervised training
Apply for Your Visa
With a job offer and pathway selected, apply for the appropriate work visa. Common options include the subclass 482 (Temporary Skill Shortage), subclass 494 (Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional), or subclass 186 (Employer Nomination Scheme). Many employers assist with visa sponsorship.
Relocate to Australia
Plan your move: housing, school enrolments for children, shipping belongings, opening an Australian bank account, and getting your tax file number. Many recruitment agencies provide relocation support packages.
Start Practising
Begin seeing patients at your new practice. You will need your AHPRA registration, Medicare provider number, and PBS prescriber number in place before your first day. Welcome to Australian general practice!