How Much Does it Cost to Move to Australia? A Guide for IMGs

Australia is a highly sought-after destination for International Medical Graduates (IMGs) seeking to practice medicine. With a well-structured healthcare system, lucrative career prospects, and a high standard of living, Australia attracts medical professionals from across the world. However, navigating the registration and immigration process can be complex.

This guide provides an overview of the different pathways available for IMGs, associated costs, and the steps required to achieve medical registration in Australia.

Pathways for IMGs in Australia

There are several pathways to registration for IMGs in Australia, depending on their qualifications and experience. The primary options include:

1. Standard Registration (Australian Medical Council - AMC Pathway)

The Standard Registration Pathway is designed for IMGs who do not meet the criteria for specialist recognition but wish to practice medicine in Australia. This pathway requires candidates to pass the AMC examinations (AMC1 & AMC2) and meet English language requirements.

Costs Involved:

• EPIC Verification: $350
• AMC Portal Fee: $642
• AMC1 (MCQ Exam): $2,920
• AMC2 (Clinical Exam): $4,391 (online) or $3,991 (in person)
• OET (English Exam): $587
• AHPRA Registration Fee: $2,000
• Visa (482 Sponsorship): $1,495

💰 Approximate Total Cost: $8,000 - $13,000

2. Competent Authority Pathway

The Competent Authority Pathway is for doctors who have already obtained medical registration in countries such as the UK, Ireland, the US, Canada, or New Zealand. This pathway allows for a more streamlined process without the need for AMC exams.

Costs Involved:

• EPIC Verification: $500
• AMC Portal Fee: $742
• AHPRA Registration Fee: $2,000
• Visa (482 Sponsorship): $1,495

💰 Approximate Total Cost: $5,000

3. General Practitioner (GP) Pathway

IMGs seeking to work as General Practitioners (GPs) in Australia may be eligible for the GP Specialist Pathway. This requires assessment and participation in a GP program.

Costs Involved:

• EPIC Verification: $500
• AMC Portal Fee: $742
• GP Application Fee: $575
• GP Program Fee: $11,900
• Administrative Fee: $300
• OET (English Exam): $587
• AHPRA Registration Fee: $2,500
• Visa (482 Sponsorship): $1,495

💰 Approximate Total Cost: $18,000

4. Specialist International Medical Graduate (SIMG) Pathway

The SIMG Pathway is designed for IMGs who have completed specialist training overseas and wish to practice as a specialist in Australia. Candidates must undergo an assessment with the relevant medical college.

Costs Involved:

• EPIC Verification: $500
• AMC Portal Fee: $742
• Specialist IMGs Assessment: Fees vary by specialty
• OET (English Exam): $587
• AHPRA Registration Fee: $2,500
• Visa (482 Sponsorship): $1,495

💰 Approximate Total Cost: $12,500 - $15,000

5. Expedited SIMG Pathway

For certain highly experienced specialists, an Expedited SIMG Pathway exists. This allows for a faster process, but the final cost depends on the medical college assessment fees.

Costs Involved:

• EPIC Verification: $500
• AMC Portal Fee: $742
• AHPRA Registration Fee: $2,500
• Visa (482 Sponsorship): $1,495
• College Assessment Fees (paid later):
  • RACP (Physicians & Paediatrics): $6,730
  • RACS (Surgery): $10,650
  • RANZCOG (Obstetrics & Gynaecology): $9,975
  • RANZR (Radiology): $10,890
  • ACEM (Emergency Medicine): $7,005
  • RANZCP (Psychiatry): $6,615
  • RANZCA (Anaesthesia): $7,255
  • ACD (Dermatology): $8,250

💰 Approximate Total Cost: $5,500 + College Assessment Fees

Final Thoughts

Navigating the registration and immigration process as an IMG in Australia requires careful planning. Each pathway has its own eligibility criteria, costs, and processing times.

Before applying, IMGs should research their eligibility for the different pathways and consult with relevant medical boards and professional organizations to ensure a smooth transition.

If you're an IMG planning to move to Australia, preparation is key. By understanding the costs and requirements in advance, you can take the right steps towards achieving medical registration and beginning your career in Australia.

If you would like to speak with one of our recruiters to help establish which pathway to registration is most appropriate for you then start your journey today by contacting us at aus@bdiresourcing.com