Immigration For International GPs Moving To Australia In 2025

Doctors moving to Australia through the AHPRA Expedited Pathway or the RACGP PEP Specialist Pathway may qualify for the Skills in Demand (Subclass 482) Specialist Skills stream visa. This visa is designed for organisations unable to find suitably qualified doctors within Australia—a situation particularly common in regional Australia.

Stages of Immigration for General Practitioners

1. Preceding Stage – Business Sponsorship Application

The employing practice applies to the Department of Home Affairs to register as a business sponsor. This application is valid for five years and is the employer’s responsibility and cost.

2. Stage 1 – Nomination Application

Each GP and their family requires a separate nomination application. Responsibilities include:

• Running labour market testing through job advertisements.

• Providing a signed employment contract.

• Submitting details to the Department of Home Affairs to receive a Transaction Reference Number (TRN) for the GP.

3. Stage 2 – Visa Application and Medicals

Using AHPRA registration, GPs demonstrate they have the necessary skills and experience. Key requirements include:

• Meeting medical and character requirements (police check and visa medical).

• Booking a visa medical after receiving a HAP-ID number in the referral letter from ImmiAccount.

• Generating a TRN via the Visa Entitlement Verification Online (VEVO) system on the Department of Home Affairs website.

Tip: To avoid delays, complete the police check and visa medical once your AHPRA application is lodged.

Permanent Residency (PR) Pathway for GPs

There is a clear pathway for General Practitioners and their families to gain Permanent Residency in Australia. Key points:

• PR ensures a stable GP workforce in regional Australia.

• Discuss your PR strategy with a qualified immigration agency.

• GPs over 45 working in regional areas for at least two years may still become eligible for PR.

Visa Costs for General Practitioners

Fee	Paid By	Amount (AUD)
Business Sponsorship Application	Practice	$1,800 + GST
Nomination Application	Practice	$2,500 + GST
Visa Application – Main Applicant	GP	$3,115
Visa Application – Dependant 18+	GP	$3,115 per person
Visa Application – Dependant under 18	GP	$760 per person

Fees are subject to change. The GP usually covers Department of Home Affairs visa fees.

Important Notes

• Doctor Connect does not provide immigration advice.

• We can connect you with experienced immigration solicitors specialising in GP migration. Additional costs may apply for solicitor services.

• For official guidance, contact the Department of Home Affairs or a qualified immigration solicitor: Doctor Connect SIDSS Visa Information.