How Long Does Registration Take?

The total time from beginning your application to holding an AHPRA registration and starting work varies depending on your chosen pathway, your preparation, and processing times. As a general guide:

  • Standard Pathway: 12 – 24 months from start to registration
  • Competent Authority Pathway: 6 – 12 months
  • Specialist Pathway: 6 – 18 months (depending on specialty college assessment)
  • GP Pathway: 6 – 12 months
  • Limited Registration: 3 – 6 months (for supervised positions)

These are typical timeframes. Individual circumstances, exam availability, and document processing can all affect your specific timeline. Starting early with document preparation and English testing can significantly reduce delays.

Step-by-Step Timeline (Standard Pathway)

The Standard Pathway is the most common route for overseas doctors and provides a useful reference timeline. Here is a typical breakdown:

  1. English Language Test (1 – 2 months) — Register for and complete an accepted English language test (IELTS, OET, or PTE). Allow time for preparation and potential resits.
  2. EPIC Primary Source Verification (2 – 4 months) — Submit your credentials for EPIC verification. This involves your medical school confirming your qualifications directly with the AMC. Processing times vary by institution.
  3. AMC MCQ Examination (1 – 3 months) — Register for and sit the AMC MCQ (CAT). The computer-based test is available at multiple times throughout the year. Allow preparation time based on your study plan.
  4. AMC Clinical Examination (2 – 6 months) — After passing the MCQ, register for the AMC Clinical Examination. Exam sessions run several times a year, but places can book out quickly. Waiting for a session is often the longest delay in the process.
  5. AHPRA Application (1 – 3 months) — Once you have passed both AMC exams and hold all required documentation, submit your AHPRA registration application. Processing typically takes 4 to 12 weeks.
  6. Visa Application (1 – 3 months) — With your registration confirmed or in progress, apply for the appropriate visa. Employer-sponsored visas like the 482 visa require your employer to submit a nomination first.

Tips to Speed Up Your Timeline

While some processing times are outside your control, there are several steps you can take to minimise delays:

  • Start EPIC verification early — This is often the slowest step because it depends on your medical school responding to verification requests. Submit this as early as possible, even before sitting your exams.
  • Run processes in parallel — You can prepare for and sit the AMC MCQ while your EPIC verification is being processed. Similarly, start your English language test early.
  • Book exams promptly — AMC Clinical Examination places fill quickly. Book your preferred date as soon as you pass the MCQ.
  • Prepare documents ahead of time — Gather police clearances, certified copies of qualifications, passport photos, and reference letters well before you need them for your AHPRA application.
  • Consider alternative pathways — If you qualify for the Competent Authority or Specialist pathway, these can be significantly faster. Use the pathway comparison to find the best route for your situation.

Planning Your Move Around the Timeline

Many overseas doctors begin the registration process while still in their home country and move to Australia once they have secured a job offer and visa. Here is a practical approach:

  • Months 1 – 6: Complete English testing, begin EPIC verification, and study for the AMC MCQ.
  • Months 6 – 12: Pass the AMC MCQ, sit the clinical exam, and begin applying for jobs through recruitment agencies and hospital websites. See our guide to finding a job.
  • Months 12 – 18: Finalise AHPRA registration, accept a job offer, and apply for your visa. Begin planning your relocation, including family arrangements and cost of living research.

For a full understanding of costs associated with each step, see our registration costs breakdown. And for an overview of the entire journey from start to finish, 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.