Job Search Strategies for Overseas Doctors

Finding a doctor job in Australia requires a targeted approach. The good news is that demand for doctors across the country remains high, and there are multiple channels available to help you secure a position.

The most common ways overseas-trained doctors find work in Australia include:

  • Medical recruitment agencies: Specialist healthcare recruiters are one of the most effective channels for IMG job seekers. Agencies such as Wavelength International, Ochre Recruitment, Medrecruit, and Healthcarelink work directly with hospitals and practices to fill vacancies. They can also assist with visa sponsorship paperwork and relocation logistics.
  • Hospital and health service websites: Every state and territory health service advertises vacancies on its own careers portal. Check the websites of organisations such as NSW Health, Queensland Health, Victoria Health, and their equivalents in other states.
  • Job boards: Medical-specific platforms like SEEK (Healthcare & Medical), HealthTimes, MedJobs Australia, and DoctorConnect list positions across the country.
  • Networking and professional contacts: Connecting with other IMGs already working in Australia, attending medical conferences, and joining online forums and social media groups can surface opportunities that are not widely advertised.

The Application and Hiring Process

Once you have identified suitable positions, the typical hiring process involves several stages:

  1. Prepare your documents: You will need an up-to-date CV (Australian format preferred), certified copies of your medical qualifications, AHPRA registration details, proof of English proficiency, and references from recent supervisors.
  2. Submit your application: Apply through the relevant channel, whether that is a recruiter, hospital portal, or job board. Tailor your cover letter to the specific role and location.
  3. Interview: Most employers conduct interviews, often via video call for overseas candidates. Be prepared to discuss your clinical experience, why you want to work in Australia, and your understanding of the Australian healthcare system.
  4. Reference checks and credential verification: Employers will verify your qualifications, registration status, and professional references. Ensure your referees are contactable and have agreed to provide references.
  5. Contract and offer: If successful, you will receive a formal employment contract. Read our contracts guide before signing to ensure you understand all terms and conditions.

Working with Medical Recruiters

Medical recruitment agencies are particularly valuable for overseas doctors because they understand the complexities of IMG employment, including visa requirements and registration pathways. Here are some tips for working effectively with recruiters:

  • Register with multiple agencies to maximise your exposure to available roles.
  • Be clear about your preferences regarding location, specialty, and work setting (hospital vs. general practice, public vs. private).
  • Ask whether the employer offers visa sponsorship. Many positions, especially in regional areas, come with sponsorship included.
  • Reputable recruiters do not charge doctors a fee. Their services are paid for by the employer. Be cautious of any agency that asks you for payment.

Visa and Registration Considerations

Your job search and your visa application are closely linked. Many employer-sponsored visa categories, such as the subclass 482 visa, require you to have a confirmed job offer before you can apply. Conversely, some employers will only consider candidates who already hold valid work rights in Australia.

Before beginning your job search, make sure you understand your AHPRA registration status and which visa options are available to you. If you are considering regional work, the subclass 494 visa and regional work programs may offer faster processing and additional incentives.

To understand what you should expect to earn, review our salary guide. For a full overview of the journey, visit our Start Here page.

Important Planning Note

This page is designed as practical guidance for overseas doctors and should be used alongside official requirements published by AHPRA, the AMC, relevant specialist colleges, and the Department of Home Affairs.

Rules, fees, and processing times can change. Before lodging any application, verify current criteria directly with official sources listed on our Resources page.