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 associated costs to the different pathways available for IMGs 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 Pathway (AMC exams)

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 AUD (in USD, $130 + $100 per credential)
• AMC Portfolio Fee: $642 AUD
• AMC1 (MCQ Exam): $2,920 AUD
• AMC2 (Clinical Exam): $3,400 (online) or $3,000 (in person)
• English Exam: OET = $587, or IELTS = $475 or PTE = $475
• Application Fee - Provisional Registration (AHPRA): $720 AUD
• Registration Fee - Provisional Registration (AHPRA): $506 AUD
• Visa: Skills in Demand (Subclass 482): $3,210 AUD (from 01 July 2025)

💰 Approximate Total Cost: $13,000 AUD

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: $350 AUD (in USD, $130 + $100 per credential)
• AMC Portfolio Fee: $642 AUD
• Application Fee - Provisional Registration (AHPRA): $720 AUD
• Registration Fee - Provisional Registration (AHPRA): $506 AUD
• Visa: Skills in Demand (Subclass 482): $3,210 AUD (from 01 July 2025)

💰 Approximate Total Cost: $6,000 AUD

3. Specialist (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 AUD (in USD, $130 + $100 per credential)
• AMC Portfolio Fee: $642 AUD
• Specialist IMGs Assessment: Approx. $6,000-$10,000 AUD *Fees vary by specialty, visit College websites for up-to-date price list.
•  English Exam: OET = $587, or IELTS = $475 or PTE = $475
• Application Fee - Provisional Registration (AHPRA): $720 AUD
• Registration Fee - Provisional Registration (AHPRA): $506 AUD
• Visa: Skills in Demand (Subclass 482): $3,210 AUD (from 01 July 2025) or Direct Entry (Subclass 186): $4,910 AUD

💰 Approximate Total Cost: $12,000 - $16,000 AUD

4. Expedited Specialist Pathway

For certain highly experienced specialists from the UK and Ireland, 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 AUD (in USD, $130 + $100 per credential)
• AMC Portfolio Fee: $642 AUD
• Application Fee - Specialist Registration (AHPRA): $1,548 AUD
• Registration Fee - Specialist Registration (AHPRA): $1,027 AUD
• Visa: Skills in Demand (Subclass 482): $3,210 AUD (from 01 July 2025) or Direct Entry (Subclass 186): $4,910 AUD

💰 Approximate Total Cost: $7,000 AUD

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