What Does It Cost to Move to Australia as a Dentist?

We have broken down the key costs UK dentists should expect when moving to Australia, from licensing and exams to visas and relocation expenses.

In many cases, when looking for a new role with Prospect Health, your new employer covers these costs with a relocation allowance.

1. Dental Registration and Exam Costs

The first cost to consider is the registration and assessment process required to practice in Australia.

UK, Irish and Canadian qualified Dentists are generally eligible to apply for registration through the recognised qualification pathway, meaning they are not required to complete the Australian Dental Council (ADC) examination process that many other internationally trained dentists must undertake.

UK, Irish and Canadian qualified dentists can apply directly for registration with AHPRA, provided they meet the necessary requirements, including proof of qualifications, professional references, and English language standards.

The primary regulatory cost for UK dentists is the annual AHPRA registration fee, which is approximately $818 AUD per year (around £420).

Additional minor administrative costs may apply during the application process, such as document certification or verification of qualifications, but these are generally limited.

2. Visa and Immigration Costs

To work in Australia, you’ll need the appropriate visa. The most common options for dentists include:

• Employer-sponsored visas (Skills in Demand Visa (SID) 482)
  The SID (482 visa) is commonly used when a dentist secures employment with a practice willing to sponsor them. In most cases, the relocation costs of approximately $12,000 (£6395) are often covered by dental practices looking to recruit dentists from the UK, helping to reduce the upfront cost of moving to Australia.
• The Working Holiday Visa (subclass 417) costs approximately £350 to apply.

Summary:

• Working Holiday Visa: Lower visa cost, but most relocation expenses are paid by the candidate.
• Subclass 482 Visa: Typically employer-sponsored, with many practices covering relocation costs, including flights, shipping, and family support.

Additional costs may include:

• Medical examinations
• Police checks
• Migration agent fees (if used)

When all elements are included, many dentists budget £350 total for the immigration process.

3. Flights to Australia

Relocation costs also include flights from the UK to Australia.

Typical one-way flights range between:

• £700 – £1,200
• Approximately $1,300 – $2,200 AUD

Prices depend on the time of year, airline, and destination city.

If relocating with a partner or family, be aware that this cost will increase.

4. Moving and Shipping Personal Belongings

Many dentists relocating long-term choose to ship personal belongings overseas.

Typical international moving costs include:

• £1,500 – £4,000 for shipping furniture or household goods
• £200 – £500 for excess baggage options

However, some dentists choose to travel light and purchase items once they arrive in Australia, which can reduce upfront costs.

5. Initial Living Costs and Settling In

Even after arriving, it’s important to budget for initial living expenses while you settle into your new role.

• Typical upfront costs may include:
• Rental deposit and first month’s rent
• Temporary accommodation
• Transport
• Professional indemnity insurance
• Basic living costs

Many dentists relocating to Australia set aside £3,000 – £6,000 ($5,500 – $11,000 AUD) as a financial buffer during their first few months.

Total Estimated Cost to Move to Australia as a Dentist

When combining registration, visa fees, relocation, and initial settling costs, the total cost of moving to Australia as a dentist can vary.