Recruiting an international medical graduate

In order for an employer to appoint an international medical graduate (IMG) there are a number of steps to be followed.

Alternatively, given the complex administrative arrangements involved, employers may choose to access recruitment agencies.

Step 1: Area of Need (AoN)

If there is no current determination for AoN, an application must be made to the SA MET Unit. For further information refer to How to Apply for Areas of Need.

Step 2: Immigration

The doctor must meet Australian immigration requirements for either temporary or permanent entry visas.

Step 3: Registration information

The doctor must be able to be registered by the Medical Board of Australia. Please note all registration enquiries are processsed by the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA).

Step 4: Medicare provider number & District of Workforce Shortage (DWS)

An IMG will require a Medicare provider number (MPN) if they will be practicing privately and need to access Medicare benefits. Instructions on how to obtain an MPN are available through Medicare.

It is also at this point that the position is assessed to be in a District of Workforce Shortage (DWS) area. To ascertain if geographic area where the medical services are required is determined to be a DWS, please visit the Australian Government's Doctor Connect.