Australia medical registration for Pakistani doctors

The standard pathway for most Pakistani graduates

Most Pakistani doctors enter Australia through the AMC Standard Pathway: primary source verification, AMC MCQ, then either the AMC clinical examination or a Workplace-Based Assessment, followed by AHPRA registration and a period of supervised practice.

The Competent Authority pathway is mainly for those who already have recognised training or registration in the UK, Ireland, USA, Canada or New Zealand.

Main steps

• Primary source verification of the degree (usually via EPIC)
• English language evidence meeting the current Medical Board standard
• AMC MCQ examination
• AMC clinical examination or approved Workplace-Based Assessment
• AHPRA registration (often limited or provisional first)
• Supervised practice leading toward general registration

English requirements (updated 2026)

From 23 April 2026 the Medical Board standard for tests taken on or after that date is IELTS Academic 7.0 overall with 7.0 in listening, reading and speaking and 6.5 in writing (or the listed equivalents in OET, PTE, TOEFL iBT or Cambridge). Tests taken before that date are assessed under the previous rules. Results are generally valid for two years — time the test to your registration application.

Realistic expectations

The process is multi-year for most people. Job offers in supervised positions, especially outside major cities, are a common entry point. Rural and regional posts are often more accessible than metropolitan ones for new IMGs. Costs and timelines vary widely; treat any single “fast track” claim with caution.

Read next: Career options after MBBS · FCPS vs MRCP vs USMLE · UK PLAB and GMC · Canada PR via Express Entry.

Frequently asked questions