The Department of Health has introduced a ‘Visas for GPs initiative’ which is expected to commence on 11 March 2019.
Employers wanting to sponsor an overseas doctor will need to obtain a ‘Health Workforce Certificate’ before lodging a nomination application for either a Subclass 482 Temporary Skills Shortage Visa, Subclass 186 Employer Nomination Scheme, or Subclass 187 Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme visa.
The Occupations Impacted by This Change Are:
- General Practitioner (ANZSCO 2531-11);
- Resident Medical Officer (ANZSCO 2531-12); and
- Medical Practitioner not elsewhere classified (ANZSCO 2539-99).
The government is implementing the ‘Visas for GPs initiative’ to direct doctors into areas that have lower access to services such as those in rural, remote and regional areas of Australia, and prevent an oversupply in other areas. The requirement to obtain a Health Workforce Certificate assists the Federal Government achieve this by issuing a certificate only to those employers that can demonstrate a genuine need to fill a position with an overseas doctor.
The Health Workforce Certificate will need to be uploaded to any nomination application lodged after 11 March 2019.
Nevett Ford Lawyers can assist with all visa applications, including employer sponsored applications.
Please Contact Us for Any Information, Advice and Assistance:
Telephone: +61 3 9614 7111
Email: melbourne@nevettford.com.au