Visas for Doctors working in Australia

When migrating to Australia to work as a General Practitioner (GP), you’ll need to apply for the right Australian working visa. The team at Trust Medical Recruitment are here to help make the process easier.

With its world-class medical system and opportunity to enjoy a relaxed lifestyle and high standard of living, many doctors are keen to work in Australia.

The demand for overseas doctors to practice in the country remains high, particularly in rural areas. To enable a smooth transition with your relocation we ensure the position that we find for you has visa sponsorship available for the applicant and their dependant family.

We work with qualified Migration Agents to provide you with a service for your Visa applications.

Trust Medical Recruitment can help you with your visa application and migration process by:

We ensure the practice are able to sponsor you for a Visa and are set up to do this.

Helping connect you with a Migration Agent so that you can apply for your Visa with The Department of Home Affairs.

Supplying Labour Market Testing for the position you have applied for.

Providing you with the relevant information and ensuring you’re supported throughout this process.

Once your visa has been granted, we’ll then help you apply for your Medicare provider number so that you can start work.

GP Migration and Visas - Frequently Asked Questions

What type of visa do you need to work in Australia as a GP?

The most common visa for medical practitioners, including GPs, is the Subclass 482 Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa. This visa is designed for skilled workers sponsored by an approved employer in Australia and allows you to work for up to three years.

Alternatively, if you are seeking permanent residency, you may explore options such as the Subclass 186 Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) visa or the Subclass 190 Skilled Nominated visa.

It’s important to consult with an immigration expert or the Australian Department of Home Affairs to figure out the most appropriate visa pathway based on your individual circumstances and goals.

How long does an Australian working visa take?

Typically, it may take up to four to eight weeks for your visa applications to be processed and completed. We strongly suggest not to book flights to Australia until your visa has been granted.

How much does it cost me to apply for a visa to practice as a GP in Australia?

Application fees vary based on the visa type. General skilled migration visas (189, 491, and 190) cost $4,045 for the main applicant and $2,025 for each spouse or family member over 18. For applicants under 18, the fee is $1,015.

For the skills shortage visa (482), the cost is $2,645, with an added $2,545 for each applicant over 18 and $660 for those under 18. It’s a good idea to ask us or check the RACGP website for the latest information on visa application costs for GPs. You’ll also find information on The Department of Home Affairs website.

Can I bring my family with me?

If you’re applying for a 482 or permanent visa to work as a GP in Australia, your immediate family members can also apply to move with you. This includes your partner and dependent children or stepchildren. While it’s less likely that extended family members like parents or siblings can join, if they rely on you or your partner as their primary caregiver and cannot support themselves, their visa application may have a higher chance of approval.

Client Testimonials

Here’s how we helped others find their ideal GP job in Australia

I contacted Trust Medical Recruitment agency to find a position as a GP under supervision in a rural area. I was willing to get back to my career as a GP. They provide me with the requirements for the position I was looking for. I felt very excited and relieved that I can start working again in Australia in my field. It helped me with financial support and now I can proceed with getting my training as a GP. [Trust Medical Recruitment’s service] was really helpful and it provided support all through the process. I am really grateful, especially to Jessica Fryett-Tigges.
Dr Mayado Shammo
I was looking to get into GP practice and needed an experienced agency to help me with this. I received background information about the area and the GP practice, and the guidance regarding what was needed to apply to AHPRA and regarding RDN grants was very helpful. I felt very excited about starting my career in Australia. Starting my dream career as a GP has been so fulfilling and it gives me an opportunity to serve the community and a great pathway to gain my Fellowship in the future. The Australian healthcare [system] is one of the world’s best and I would recommend anyone wanting to pursue their career here. Trust Medical Recruitment has great knowledge and experience in the field and I would recommend them to get into a job in the healthcare sector. Their organising skills and paperwork were amazing!
Dr Bhajana