Australia Care Worker & Nursing Jobs with Visa Sponsorship in 2025
Introduction
Australia is currently facing a severe shortage of healthcare professionals, particularly in aged care and nursing sectors. With an ageing population and increased demand for healthcare services, the country has opened its doors to foreign skilled workers. If you are a Nigerian or international job seeker aiming to work in Australia in 2025, care worker and nursing roles offer some of the most accessible migration routes—with visa sponsorship included.
In this guide, we will explore care worker and nursing jobs in Australia with visa sponsorship in 2025, how to apply, visa types, salary expectations, eligible employers, and everything a foreigner must know.
Why Australia Needs Care Workers and Nurses in 2025
Healthcare Workforce Shortage: A National Crisis
- According to the Australian Government Department of Health, by 2030, Australia will need over 250,000 additional aged care workers.
- Nurses are among the top occupations listed in the Skilled Occupation List (SOL) and Priority Migration Skilled Occupation List (PMSOL).
- As of 2024, there were over 65,000 vacant healthcare positions nationwide, many unfilled due to local shortages.
This presents a golden opportunity for skilled migrants, especially from Africa, Asia, and Europe.
Who Can Apply? (Target Audience)
The following groups are ideal candidates for these jobs:
- Nigerians with nursing or healthcare qualifications
- Care assistants and support workers with experience
- Registered Nurses (RN) and Enrolled Nurses (EN)
- Unskilled but trainable foreign workers for entry-level care roles
- Graduates in medical, health, or social sciences
- Migrant job seekers seeking permanent residency in Australia
Types of Jobs Available in Australia (2025)
| Job Title | Qualification Required | Average Annual Salary (AUD) | Visa Sponsorship Available |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aged Care Support Worker | Certificate III in Aged Care | $48,000 – $55,000 | ✅ Yes |
| Disability Support Worker | Cert III/IV in Disability | $50,000 – $58,000 | ✅ Yes |
| Enrolled Nurse (EN) | Diploma of Nursing | $60,000 – $70,000 | ✅ Yes |
| Registered Nurse (RN) | Bachelor’s in Nursing | $70,000 – $95,000 | ✅ Yes |
| Personal Care Assistant (PCA) | No formal qualification (Training provided) | $45,000 – $52,000 | ✅ Yes |
| Home Care Worker | Certificate III or equivalent | $47,000 – $54,000 | ✅ Yes |
Visa Sponsorship Pathways in 2025
1. Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa – Subclass 491
- Points-based visa for skilled workers
- Sponsored by an eligible relative or a state/territory
- Valid for 5 years with path to PR
- Occupations like RN, EN, and Aged Care Worker are eligible
2. Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa – Subclass 482
- Employer-sponsored visa for 2–4 years
- Occupations must be on the Short-Term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL) or MLTSSL
- Allows family inclusion and PR transition
3. Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) – Subclass 186
- Permanent residency visa
- Requires 3 years’ work experience on a TSS visa
- High demand roles like RNs are eligible
4. Working Holiday Visa (For Care Assistants Under Age 35)
- Not commonly used for long-term roles
- Can lead to skilled visa transition if employer supports
Requirements to Work as a Care Worker or Nurse in Australia
General Requirements
- English proficiency (IELTS score of 6.5 or OET B for nurses)
- Age: Must be under 45 years (for most visa types)
- Health and police clearance
- Recognised qualifications in nursing, aged care, or disability support
- Registration with AHPRA (Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency) for nurses
Documents Needed
- International passport
- Academic qualifications and transcripts
- Work experience certificates
- Police character report
- Proof of funds (for visa processing)
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) and references
Where to Find These Jobs
Here are top platforms and employers currently hiring with visa sponsorship:
Top Job Portals
Leading Employers Offering Visa Sponsorship
- BUPA Aged Care
- Estia Health
- Regis Healthcare
- Japara Healthcare
- Southern Cross Care
- Calvary Health Care
- BlueCross
How to Apply for Care Worker or Nursing Jobs in Australia (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Get Your Qualifications Recognised
- For nurses: Apply to AHPRA for registration
- For care workers: Take a Certificate III or IV in Aged Care, if needed (may be completed in Australia or online)
Step 2: Prepare Your Resume and Documents
- Format your CV in Australian style
- Include references, duties performed, and achievements
Step 3: Search for Jobs with Sponsorship
- Use job sites or apply directly on company websites
- Reach out to registered migration agents for guidance
Step 4: Apply for the Job
- Tailor your cover letter
- Highlight your eligibility and willingness to relocate
Step 5: Secure an Employer and Begin Visa Process
- If selected, your employer will nominate you for a visa
- Complete required medical, police clearance, and biometrics
Common Challenges & How to Overcome Them
| Challenge | Solution |
|---|---|
| No Australian experience | Include international references, and consider internships |
| Low English scores | Retake IELTS or OET exams with better preparation |
| No local qualification | Enrol in a short course or Certificate III in Aged Care online |
| Delays in visa processing | Ensure complete documentation and apply early |
Benefits of Working as a Caregiver or Nurse in Australia
- Pathway to Permanent Residency
- Competitive Salaries and Benefits
- Family Inclusion in Visas
- Flexible work hours and overtime options
- Access to subsidized healthcare and education
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I apply for Australian care jobs without experience?
Yes. Some entry-level roles like Personal Care Assistant or Home Support Worker require little to no experience, but willingness to undergo training is essential.
2. Do I need to take an English test?
Yes. Most visa applications require IELTS, PTE, or OET. Nurses typically need higher scores.
3. Can a Nigerian nurse get PR through this job?
Yes. Registered nurses can transition from temporary visas to Subclass 186 (PR) after working 2–3 years in Australia.
4. How much is the salary for a nurse in Australia?
The average salary for an RN is AUD 75,000 to AUD 95,000 annually, depending on location and experience.
5. Are visa sponsorships available in 2025?
Absolutely. Many employers are now registered sponsors due to the ongoing skilled labour shortage in Australia.
Conclusion
If you’re a skilled worker from Nigeria or elsewhere, 2025 is an excellent time to take advantage of Australia’s urgent need for healthcare professionals. Care worker and nursing jobs are not only rewarding in terms of salary and work conditions but also serve as a clear migration pathway with visa sponsorship and permanent residency options.
Whether you’re a trained nurse or an aspiring caregiver, your journey to a better life and career in Australia can start now.