What are the VISA options for doctors in Australia?
Under the General Skilled Migration Program of Australia, a stream of visas are available for the doctors seeking to migrate. These visas are permanent (or lead to permanent residency) and do not require an employer to sponsor your visa.
Popular VISA options include:
- The Skilled Independent (Subclass 189)
- The Skilled Nominated (Subclass 190)
- The Skilled Regional Nominated (Subclass 491)
Minimum points required for a PR visa under the GSM program.
Like all other skilled professionals, doctors must score at least 65 points to apply for a PR visa under the GSM program. However, scoring more than 65 points will enhance your chances of receiving an invitation. Since skills of doctors such as General Practitioners (GPs) and Resident Medical Officers (RMOs), and Emergency Medicine specialists are in high demand we are talking a point range between 80 to 85 points would suffice for a competitive visa application.
General eligibility factors for PR in Australia
Any skilled professional wishing to apply for a PR visa irrespective of the visa category they are going for must fulfil some basic eligibility criteria, which include
- Less than 45 years of age
- 65 points in the Australian points grid
- Valid skills assessment
- IELTS or PTE score
- Educational qualification
- State nomination
Point breakdown for doctors
The skilled migration program operates on a point system. Here is an overview of the various factors impacting the points you score.
Age : maximum 30 points
Age stands as the most impactful factor as it generates most of the points required. A maximum of 30 points can be gained if you fall in the right age range.
- 18-24 years: 25 points
- 25-32 years: 30 points
- 33-39 years: 25 points
- 40-44 years: 15 points
English Language Proficiency: Maximum 20 Points
English language proficiency is another important factor where you can bag a good number of points. With the right preparation, you can achieve the required score in any English proficiency exam like IELTS, PTE or any equivalent exam.
- Superior English: IELTS 8.0 or equivalent: 20 points
- Proficient English: IELTS 7.0 or equivalent: 10 points
Skilled Employment Experience: Maximum 20 Points
Your previous work experience relevant to the profession you are applying for would be of great benefit while applying for a skilled VISA.
- Australian work experience (closely related occupation):
- 1 year: 5 points
- 3 years: 10 points
- 5 years: 15 points
- 8 years: 20 points
- Overseas work experience (relevant to your profession):
- 3 years: 5 points
- 5 years: 10 points
- 8 years: 15 points
Educational Qualifications
- Outside Australia : Maximum 20 Points
Having recognised qualifications from a reputed institution can earn you another big number of points depending on the level of education. Medical degrees from an accredited institution and having passed Australian Medical Council (AMC) exams will position you well for securing points in this area.
- Doctorate (PhD): 20 points
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree: 15 points
- Inside Australia:
- Masters or a Doctorate: 10 points
- Professional year in skilled program: 5 points
State or Territory Nomination
If you receive a nomination from an Australian state or territory, you can gain an extra 5 to 15 points depending on the visa subclass.
Other Factors (Maximum 15 Points)
- Community language skills: 5 points
- Study in regional Australia: 5 points
- Partner’s skills and qualifications: 10 points
Category | Maximum Points |
| Age (25-32 years) | 30 points |
| English language proficiency (8 bands) | 20 points |
| Work experience outside Australia (8-10 years) | 15 points |
| Work Experience in Australia (8-10 years) | 20 points |
| Education (outside Australia): Doctorate degree | 20 points |
| Doctorate or master’s degree in Australia | 10 points |
Boosting Your Points
If you score below the competitive threshold, there are ways for you to improve the points.
- Improve English language skills: Achieving superior English can give you an extra 10 points.
- Gain Australian work experience: Working in Australia for a year or more adds valuable points.
- Consider State Sponsorship: If your points fall short, applying for a state-nominated visa (Subclass 190) can add an additional 5 points.
Final Thoughts
Doctors looking to migrate to Australia and apply for PR visa must meet the minimum point requirement of 65 points. However, the reality is that the more points you score, the better are your chances of invitation. Medical degrees from an accredited institution and clearing Australian Medical Council (AMC) exams will add to your points. Focus on enhancing areas like English Language Proficiency, work experience, and education to improve your points, which will make your application more competitive.
Academically can help skilled doctors to navigate this ever-changing landscape by offering tailored guidance, AMC exam preparation, and expert support, ensuring they stay competitive and informed about the latest opportunities and updates in their field.
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