Dentist Jobs in Australia: Planning Your Move and the Registration Process

Getting started: how to register with AHPRA as a Dentist in Australia

Like most healthcare professionals moving abroad, their first step was research, understanding how dentistry works in Australia, what the registration process looks like, and how to get started with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA).

They emphasised that while the AHPRA application process itself is fairly straightforward, waiting times can vary significantly. Although official guidance states six to eight weeks, many applicants experience longer delays, sometimes up to four months.

Their top tip?

“Don’t rely on the waiting time listed on the website, always apply early and follow up regularly.”

This proactive approach not only keeps things moving but also provides peace of mind that your application hasn’t been lost in the system.

Navigating Visa options and health checks for Dentists moving to Australia

Once AHPRA registration was underway, the next big step was applying for the working visa. While their visa process was relatively quick, they did encounter a few surprises along the way, particularly when it came to the mandatory health checks.

Because healthcare professionals are considered a higher-risk category, medical checks are compulsory before the visa can be approved. These must be completed at approved private hospitals, not through the NHS, and can be costly depending on location and availability.

“We had to travel to Edinburgh to get ours done, but once the results were in, the visa was processed within a day.”

They also reminded future applicants to complete the police clearance certificates early, especially if you’ve lived in multiple countries, as delays here can hold up the entire process.

When to Book Flights and Finalise Your Move to Australia as a Dentist

When it comes to flights, their advice was clear, wait until your visa is confirmed.
While booking early might seem like a way to save money, unforeseen delays or errors in applications can cause major complications.

“We decided to wait for the visa approval before booking our flights, just for that extra reassurance.”

They also noted that you must be outside Australia when applying for your first long-term visa, so entering the country on a visitor visa while waiting for approval isn’t an option. Being patient and following the process pays off in the long run.

Key Takeaways for Dentists Planning to Work in Australia

From their experience, the biggest lessons were simple but essential:

• Start your AHPRA registration as early as possible.
• Don’t rely on listed processing times, follow up frequently.
• Get your health checks and police certificates done early.
• Only book flights once your visa is approved.

These practical steps helped them move through the process smoothly and confidently, turning what could be a stressful experience into an exciting, well-planned relocation.

Follow our relocation guide to help you prepare for the big move!

Thinking about relocating? Explore Dentist career opportunities in Australia

If you’re a dentist considering relocating to Australia, now’s a great time to explore your options. From metropolitan practices to regional community roles, there are a variety of opportunities waiting for skilled clinicians.