The pathway for Nursing Registration in Australia for Nigerians 2026 is now easier than ever. Australia is aggressively recruiting international nurses due to shortages across hospitals and aged-care facilities, and Nigerian nurses are among the most in-demand.
To work as a Registered Nurse (RN) in Australia, you must complete the AHPRA registration process and pass the Outcome-Based Assessment (OBA). This process determines your eligibility to practice under the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA).
Pengman recommends Australia for nurses seeking:
- High salaries (₦150M–₦250M/year equivalent)
- Visa sponsorship
- Fast PR pathway
- Stable working conditions
- Global career progression
Understanding the AHPRA System
AHPRA (Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency) oversees healthcare professionals in Australia. For Nursing Registration in Australia for Nigerians 2026, AHPRA checks:
- Your nursing qualifications
- Clinical experience
- English language ability
- Fitness to practice
- Identity verification
Once approved, you’re placed on the NMBA register, giving you eligibility to work as a nurse.
What Is the OBA Route for Nigerian Nurses?
The Outcome-Based Assessment (OBA) is the official Australian licensing pathway for internationally educated nurses (IENs).
For Nursing Registration in Australia for Nigerians 2026, the OBA includes two parts:
1. NCLEX – Computer-based screening exam
2. OSCE – Practical skills assessment
You must pass both to become a Registered Nurse (RN) in Australia.
Eligibility Requirements for AHPRA Registration
To begin Nursing Registration in Australia for Nigerians 2026, you must meet:
Educational Requirements
- BNSc or RN Diploma
- Academic transcripts
- Clinical hours verification
Professional Requirements
- Current NMCN license
- Professional references
- Police clearance
English Requirements
Either:
- IELTS 7.0 (each band)
or - OET B minimum
Step-by-Step OBA Pathway for 2026
Here is Pengman’s simplified pathway for Nursing Registration in Australia for Nigerians 2026:
Step 1: Create an AHPRA account
Prepare identity documents + nursing credentials.
Step 2: Upload required documents
Include transcripts, NMCN verification, employment references, and a passport.
Step 3: Wait for the AHPRA eligibility letter (AEL)
This determines your eligibility to sit for the NCLEX.
Step 4: Write the NCLEX (Part 1 of OBA)
You can take the NCLEX in Lagos, Abuja, or Accra.
Step 5: Book OSCE (Part 2 of OBA)
OSCE venues are in Adelaide/Melbourne.
Step 6: Final Registration with AHPRA
Once you pass the OSCE, you are added to the Australian Register of Nurses.
AHPRA Official Registration Portal
https://www.ahpra.gov.au/
Australia’s OSCE is similar to the UK’s — many skills overlap. Full UK OSCE prep guide here (use it for Australia too): OSCE Preparation for Nigerian Nurses 2026 (UK NMC Guide).
Exam Breakdown: NCLEX + OSCE
NCLEX-RN (Computer Test)
Tests:
- Medical-surgical nursing
- Pharmacology
- Safety
- Critical thinking
OSCE (Clinical Skills Test)
Covers:
- Medication administration
- Emergency response
- Communication
- Care planning
Passing both is essential for Nursing Registration in Australia for Nigerians in 2026.
Costs of Nursing Registration in Australia
Approximate 2026 costs:
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| AHPRA Application | AUD $640 |
| NCLEX Exam | AUD $465 |
| OSCE Exam | AUD $4,000 |
| English Test | AUD $410 |
| Police Check | AUD $100 |
| Total | AUD $5,600+ |
Other costs include flights, accommodation, and document uploads.
Visa Sponsorship Pathways for Nurses
Most hospitals sponsor Nigerian nurses under Australian Work Visas.
1. Skilled Visa (Subclass 189)
Permanent residency (PR) directly.
2. Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)
PR with state nomination.
3. Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (482)
Employer-sponsored; leads to PR.
4. Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS 186)
For experienced nurses.
Strong demand makes Nursing Registration in Australia for Nigerians 2026 one of the fastest PR routes.
Ireland is another top choice for Nigerian nurses — compare Ireland vs Australia pathways here: Nursing Jobs in Ireland for Nigerians 2026 (Visa Sponsorship).
High-Demand Nursing Roles in Australia
- Aged Care Nurse
- ICU Nurse
- Theatre Nurse
- Mental Health Nurse
- Community Health Nurse
- Emergency Nurse
These are listed on Australia’s Skilled Occupation List, guaranteeing strong visa sponsorship opportunities.
Australia pays ₦150M–₦250M, often higher than UK Band 5–7 — compare UK nursing salaries + sponsorship here: High-Paying Nursing Jobs in the UK for Nigerians 2026.
PR Pathway for Nigerian Nurses
PR can be achieved in as little as 1–2 years.
Requirements:
- Meet points threshold
- Valid job offer
- AHPRA registration
- English scores
- Age is usually below 45
After PR, you can apply for Citizenship after meeting residency requirements.
Once you have AHPRA registration, you qualify for permanent residency in 1–2 years — full-skilled migration guide here: Australia Skilled Migration Visa for Nigerians 2026 (Step-by-Step Guide).
Conclusion
The pathway for Nursing Registration in Australia for Nigerians 2026 offers one of the best international opportunities for Nigerian nurses. With AHPRA oversight, the OBA (NCLEX + OSCE), high salaries, and fast PR routes, Australia remains a top destination for healthcare professionals.
Pengman recommends preparing early, gathering documentation in advance, and using official resources to avoid delays in the AHPRA/OBA process.
Australian hospitals are on the global sponsor list — see 200+ companies hiring Nigerian nurses here: Visa Sponsorship Jobs for Nigerians 2026 (200+ Companies).
FAQs
1. Is Australia still recruiting Nigerian nurses in 2026?
Yes. Shortages are increasing.
2. Do I need OET or IELTS?
Yes — minimum IELTS 7.0 or OET B.
3. How long does AHPRA registration take?
4–12 months, depending on document processing.
4. Is NCLEX difficult?
It requires preparation, but pass rates are high for committed candidates.
5. Can Nigerian nurses get visa sponsorship?
Yes. Most hospitals offer sponsorship.
6. How much do nurses earn in Australia?
AUD $75,000–$130,000 yearly.
7. Can I bring my family?
Yes. Most sponsored visas allow dependents.