If you’re an international nurse looking to work in Australia, the ANMAC (Australian Nursing and Midwifery Accreditation Council) assessment is a crucial step you’ll need to complete after obtaining your nursing license with AHPRA. In this blog, we’ll break down the entire ANMAC assessment for nurses process so you can navigate it smoothly and understand what to expect.
What is ANMAC?
ANMAC is the National Accreditation Authority for Nursing and Midwifery education providers in Australia. It also serves as an independent assessing authority for skilled migrants, playing a vital role in the General Skilled Migration program.
ANMAC has three main functions:
- Accrediting nursing and midwifery study programs.
- Performing migration skills assessments for skilled migration.
- Engaging with nursing and midwifery stakeholders.
Completing the ANMAC assessment is an essential step for nurses who want to work and live in Australia after obtaining their nursing license through AHPRA.
Types of ANMAC Assessments
There are several types of ANMAC assessments, depending on your background and qualifications. Here’s a breakdown:
- Full Skills Assessment:
For nurses who are qualified and registered in countries like Canada, Hong Kong, Ireland, the UK, or the US. - Modified Skills Assessment:
Nurses who are already registered with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA/AHPRA), the Nursing Council of New Zealand (NCNZ), or the Midwifery Council of New Zealand (MCNZ) can apply for this assessment. - Modified PLUS Skills Assessment:
For nurses who have received “in-principle approval of registration” from AHPRA but need to complete further identity verification. - Direct Care Skills Assessment:
Supports the Australian Government’s Aged Care Industry Labour Agreement (ACILA) and Designated Area Migration Agreement (DAMA), specifically for Nursing Support Worker and Personal Care Assistant roles.
Eligibility Criteria for ANMAC Assessment
Before applying for any ANMAC assessment, ensure that you meet the following eligibility criteria:
- Recognized Nursing Qualification:
You must have a qualification equivalent to an Australian nursing or midwifery degree, typically a Bachelor’s degree. The educational institution should be accredited in the country where you completed your studies. - English Language Proficiency:
- Full Skills Assessment: You’ll need to provide results from one of the following tests: IELTS, OET, PTE Academic, or TOEFL iBT.
- Modified and Modified PLUS Assessments: No English language test results are required.
- Work Experience
If you want ANMAC to assess your work experience for migration purposes, you will need to provide an official letter from your employer(s) detailing your role, job duties, and length of employment.
Fees for ANMAC Assessment
The fees for ANMAC assessments can vary depending on the type of assessment you’re applying for. It’s important to regularly check the official ANMAC website for the latest updates on fees, as they are subject to change.
| SERVICE | FEES (AUD) |
| Modified Assessment | $395 |
| Direct Care Assessment | $545 |
| Full Assessment | $595 |
| Modified PLUS Assessment | $395 |
Document Preparation for ANMAC Assessment
Before you begin the ANMAC process, the first step is identifying the appropriate ANZSCO code that matches your work experience. ANZSCO (Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations) provides the skill level, qualifications, and experience needed for different occupations. For registered nurses in Australia, ANZSCO codes begin with “2544.”
Your ANZSCO code should reflect your most recent area of work experience. If you lack work experience, you should use the code “254499 – Registered Nurse (Not Elsewhere Classified).”
Documents Required:
- Proof of Identity: Passport and, if applicable, birth certificate or national ID card.
- Qualifications: Degree certificate or diploma and official transcripts showing subjects studied and clinical practice hours.
- Work Experience Evidence: An official letter from your employer(s).
- Professional Registration: Registration certificates from nursing regulatory bodies where you’ve worked, and a Good Standing Certificate from these authorities.
- English Language Proficiency: Only required for Full Skills Assessment.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV): A detailed and up-to-date resume covering your qualifications, work history, and relevant skills.
- Photographs: Passport-sized photos meeting ANMAC specifications.
- Additional Documents: If applicable, marriage certificate or name change documents, and migration agent declaration form (if using one).
Outcome of the ANMAC Assessment
Once your documents have been verified, ANMAC will assess your qualifications to determine whether they meet Australian standards. If successful, you will receive an Outcome Letter or Letter of Determination. These letters are valid for two years from the date of issue.
Time Frame:
The assessment process usually takes 4 to 8 weeks after ANMAC receives all your documents. Your application will remain open for 12 months, so it’s important to submit everything within that timeframe.
Key Points to Keep in Mind:
- The process can be lengthy due to document verification and overseas institutions’ involvement.
- Delays can occur if documentation is incomplete or verification takes longer than expected.
- Make sure to submit all documents in the required format and within the specified time to avoid delays.
Conclusion
The ANMAC assessment is a critical step in your journey to becoming a registered nurse or midwife in Australia. While the process may seem detailed and time-consuming, it ensures that only the most qualified nurses are able to practice in the Australian healthcare system.
If you need any help navigating the ANMAC process, consider working with a professional migration agent. At Edulogix, we can connect you with experienced agents to help streamline your application and guide you through every step of the process.
Ready to get started? Contact us today to begin your Australian nursing journey!