To register as a nurse with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) for European nurses, follow these detailed steps:

1. Understand the Requirements

• Qualifications and Experience: Ensure you have a recognized nursing qualification from an EU/EEA country.
• English Language Proficiency: Demonstrate proficiency in English, typically through the IELTS (International English Language Testing System) with a minimum score of 7.0 in each component, or the OET (Occupational English Test) with a minimum grade of B in each section.

2. Create an AHPRA Online Account

• AHPRA Online Portal: Visit the AHPRA website and create an account on the AHPRA Online portal.

3. Initial Application

• Submit an Application: Complete the application form for overseas qualified nurses and midwives. This form can be found on the AHPRA website.
• Application Fee: Pay the application fee when submitting your form.

4. Submit Required Documents

• Certified Copies: Provide certified copies of the following documents:
  • Passport or national ID
  • Birth certificate
  • Nursing degree certificate and transcripts
  • Certificate of current professional status (verification of your nursing license from the country where you are currently registered)
  • Proof of English language proficiency (if applicable)
• Translations: If your documents are not in English, provide certified translations.

5. Qualification Assessment

• ANMAC Assessment: Your qualifications will be assessed by the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Accreditation Council (ANMAC) to determine if they meet Australian standards.
• Outcome: ANMAC will provide an outcome letter that will be forwarded to AHPRA.

6. Health and Character Checks

• Criminal History Check: AHPRA will conduct an international criminal history check.
• Health Declaration: Submit a health declaration form signed by a medical practitioner.
• Professional References: Provide professional references from your current or previous employers.

7. Decision Letter

• Receive a Decision Letter: After all assessments and checks are completed, AHPRA will send you a decision letter. This letter will indicate if you are eligible for registration or if you need to complete additional steps (such as a bridging program).

8. Complete Additional Requirements (if applicable)

• Bridging Program: If required, complete a bridging program to meet the Australian nursing standards.
• Supervised Practice: You may be required to complete a period of supervised practice.

9. Final Registration

• Registration Fee: Pay the final registration fee once all requirements are met.
• Receive Registration: AHPRA will add you to the register of nurses and midwives, and you will receive your registration certificate and Personal Identification Number (PIN).

10. Maintain Registration

• Annual Renewal: Renew your registration annually by paying the renewal fee and completing any required continuing professional development (CPD).
• Professional Practice: Ensure you adhere to the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA) Code of Conduct and professional standards.

Additional Notes:

• Support and Guidance: Utilize AHPRA resources and support available for overseas qualified nurses during the registration process.
• Regular Updates: Regularly check the AHPRA website for any updates or changes to the registration process.

By following these steps, European nurses can successfully register with AHPRA and practice nursing in Australia.