Hi everyone, my name is Fatumo — I’m a nurse and midwife living and working here in Australia. I completed my double degree in Nursing and Midwifery back in 2023, and I’ve been working in both fields for the past two years.
Alongside my nursing career, I started a little side project that’s become really close to my heart — my blog, nursingpreneur.com. It’s a space where I share my story, my experiences as a student, and my journey working as a nurse and midwife in Australia. Even though my website hasn’t made me much money, it’s been such a blessing seeing how much it’s helped others. That’s what keeps me going — knowing that I can support, guide, and inspire people who are on a similar path.
Right now, I’ve got a beautiful online community with over 4,000 followers on Instagram and over 5,000 on TikTok. Most of you reach out with one big question — “How can I move to Australia and work as a nurse or midwife?” A lot of you are from Kenya, working hard every day to care for your patients, and dreaming of taking your nursing career abroad.
This article is for you — for the nurses and midwives in Kenya who are working tirelessly and want to build a new chapter in Australia. I’ve gathered all the information you’ll need to help make that dream a reality. I’ve done the research for you, and I truly hope this guide makes your journey a little easier.
And to those of you reading from other countries, don’t worry — I haven’t forgotten you! If you’re living elsewhere and want to learn how to work in Australia, please send me a DM on social media and tell me where you’re based. I’ll do my best to put together a guide for your country too.
Thank you for being here and for being part of this amazing community — let’s keep learning and growing together.
The prospect of moving from Kenya to Australia to work as a nurse and midwife is an ambitious and life-changing goal. Australia, with its high standard of living, robust healthcare system, competitive salaries, and stunning natural landscapes, presents an incredibly attractive opportunity for skilled healthcare professionals. However, the path from Nairobi, Mombasa, or Nakuru to a hospital in Sydney, Melbourne, or Perth is a detailed and multi-stage process that requires meticulous planning, patience, and significant investment.
This guide breaks down the journey into manageable steps, providing you with a clear roadmap to turn your Australian dream into a reality.
The Foundation – Qualifications and Registration with AHPRA
Before you can even think about visas or job offers, your primary goal is to become a registered nurse and midwife in Australia. This is governed by the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA).
A. Eligibility Assessment: The NMBA & ANMAC
For most internationally qualified nurses and midwives, the first formal step is an assessment of your qualifications. This is typically done through the Australian Nursing & Midwifery Accreditation Council (ANMAC). They will review your nursing and midwifery education and experience to ensure it is comparable to Australian standards.
- What you need: You will need to provide detailed transcripts, course syllabi, and proof of your qualifications from your Kenyan training institution (e.g., Kenya Medical Training College, University of Nairobi, etc.).
- English Language Proficiency: This is a non-negotiable requirement. You must demonstrate a high level of English proficiency by achieving the required scores in one of these tests:
- IELTS: A minimum score of 7.0 in each of the four components (Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking).
- OET: A minimum score of B (350 or above) in each of the four components.
- PTE Academic or TOEFL iBT: Also accepted with equivalent scores as set by the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA).
B. The AHPRA Application Process
Once your qualifications are deemed suitable, you can proceed with the direct application to AHPRA for registration. This involves:
- Creating an Online Account: Start your application via the AHPRA portal.
- Providing Extensive Documentation: This includes certified copies of your passport, birth certificate, academic transcripts, proof of work experience, and English test results.
- Criminal History Check: You will need to provide a police clearance certificate from Kenya and any other country you have lived in for 12 months or more over the last ten years.
- Proof of Identity: AHPRA has strict identity verification processes.
Important Note: Some nurses choose to undertake a Bridging Program or Outcome-Based Assessment (OBA) if their initial qualifications are not deemed fully equivalent. The OBA, which includes a multiple-choice exam (MCQ) and an objective structured clinical exam (OSCE), is a common pathway for many internationally qualified nurses to demonstrate their competence.
Securing the Right Australian Visa
You cannot work in Australia without an appropriate visa. For skilled professionals like nurses and midwives, the pathways are primarily points-based.
A. The Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)
This is the “gold standard” visa – a permanent residency visa that is not sponsored by an employer or state government. You submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) and are invited to apply based on your points score. Points are awarded for:
- Age (highest points for 25-32 years)
- English proficiency (superior English scores yield more points)
- Skilled employment experience (in Kenya and overseas)
- Educational qualifications
- Partner skills
Nursing and Midwifery are consistently on the relevant skilled occupation list (e.g., Midwife 254111, Registered Nurse 254418), making this a viable, though highly competitive, pathway.
B. The Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)
This is a permanent residency visa that requires nomination by a specific Australian state or territory government (e.g., Western Australia, South Australia, Victoria). Each state has its own “wanted list” of occupations. Nurses and midwives are in such high demand that they are frequently on these lists. If nominated, you receive extra points for your EOI, significantly boosting your chances of an invitation.
C. The Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491)
This is a five-year provisional visa for those willing to live and work in regional Australia. It requires nomination by a state or territory or sponsorship by an eligible family member. This pathway often has lower points thresholds and is a fantastic way to gain a foothold in Australia, with a clear pathway to permanent residency after three years.
D. Employer-Sponsored Visas (Subclass 482 & 186)
- Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa (Subclass 482): This is a temporary visa that allows you to work in Australia for a sponsoring employer for up to four years. This is a very common first step, as hospitals often sponsor nurses directly.
- Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Visa (Subclass 186): This is a permanent residency visa for those who have been sponsored by an employer, typically after working for them for a few years on a temporary visa.
The Job Hunt – Finding an Employer
With AHPRA registration in process (or secured) and a clear visa strategy, you can begin your job search.
- Recruitment Agencies: Specialized healthcare recruitment agencies are one of the most effective routes. They have established relationships with hospitals and can guide you through the entire process. Look for reputable agencies that have offices in both Kenya and Australia, or that specialize in international recruitment. Examples include HealthX, Nursing & Midwifery Agency, and many others.
- Direct Applications: You can apply directly to the major public health services in each state (e.g., NSW Health, Victoria’s Safer Care Victoria, WA Health). Their websites have career portals.
- Online Job Boards: Utilize platforms like Seek.com.au, Indeed Australia, and professional networking sites like LinkedIn. Ensure your LinkedIn profile is polished and highlights your Kenyan qualifications and experience.
- Networking: Connect with other Kenyan nurses in Australia through social media groups (e.g., “Kenyans in Sydney,” “Kenyans in Melbourne”). They can offer invaluable advice and potentially job referrals.
The Practicalities of Relocation from Kenya
Moving continents is a massive undertaking. Here’s a checklist:
- Finances: The entire process is expensive. Budget for:
- English language tests (Kshs 25,000+)
- ANMAC skills assessment (AUD $1,035+)
- AHPRA application fees (AUD $420+)
- Visa application charges (ranging from ~AUD $4,640 for a 491 to over $7,000 for a 189)
- Medical examinations and police checks
- Flights and initial accommodation
- It is wise to have savings to cover at least 3 months of living expenses in Australia.
- Accommodation: Research suburbs that fit your budget and lifestyle. Websites like domain.com.au and realestate.com.au are essential. Be prepared for the high cost of rent in major cities like Sydney and Melbourne.
- Shipping Your Belongings: Decide what to take, what to store, and what to sell. Get quotes from international removalists.
- Cultural Adjustment: Australia has a very different culture and work environment from Kenya. Be prepared for a more direct communication style, a strong emphasis on work-life balance, and unique social norms.
Thriving in the Australian Healthcare System
Once you arrive, the journey isn’t over. Successfully integrating is key.
- Work Culture: Australian hospitals are typically well-resourced but fast-paced. There is a strong focus on protocols, evidence-based practice, and continuous professional development (CPD). The hierarchy can be less rigid than in some other systems.
- Ongoing Registration: To maintain your AHPRA registration, you must meet annual CPD requirements and practice a minimum number of hours.
- Building a Support System: Connect with your local Kenyan community. They will be your family away from home and provide crucial emotional support, especially in the first few challenging months.
Conclusion: A Journey of Perseverance and Reward
The path from being a nurse or midwife in Kenya to becoming one in Australia is not a short or easy one. It is a marathon that can take anywhere from 12 to 24 months, filled with paperwork, exams, and waiting. It demands a significant financial and emotional investment.
However, for those who persevere, the rewards are immense. The opportunity to work in a world-class healthcare system, receive a salary that allows for a high quality of life, enjoy unparalleled safety and work-life balance, and provide a bright future for your family makes the arduous journey worthwhile. By approaching this process with diligence, patience, and the right information, you can successfully navigate your way to a fulfilling new career and life in Australia.
My Instagram Account Handle: Fatuma_101
Learn more about nursing, midwifery, and my experiences as a student in Australia
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- What to Consider Before Committing to a Nursing or Midwifery Degree
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- How to Become a Pediatric Nurse in Australia? [2025 Guide]
- 4th year Nursing & Midwifery experience as RUSON
- 5 Things I Wish Someone Told Me Before Starting Nursing and Midwifery Double Degree Course.
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2. The Aesthetic Architect: Your Definitive Guide to Launching a Successful Cosmetic Nurse Business in Australia
3. The Strategic Clinician: A Deep Dive into Nurse Consultant Services in Australia and Their Transformative Impact on Healthcare
4. The Australian Healthcare Revolution: Building a Thriving Nurse Coaching Business
5. The Nurse-Pruner: Your Ultimate Guide to Building a Thriving Nurse-Led Business in Australia
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Migration laws and professional registration requirements are subject to frequent change. Always refer to the official websites of the Department of Home Affairs and AHPRA for the most current and authoritative information. It is highly recommended to seek advice from a registered migration agent for personalized visa guidance.