Australia has a strong veterinary industry, with veterinarians and veterinary professionals working across private clinics, animal hospitals, livestock industries, government services, research and regional communities. For overseas veterinary professionals considering a move to Australia, understanding how your occupation is classified is one of the most important first steps.

One common question is whether veterinary nursing is on Australia’s skilled migration list in 2026. The answer depends on your exact occupation and qualifications. Veterinary nurses and veterinarians are separate occupations for Australian migration purposes, with different qualification, registration and skills assessment requirements.

Veterinarian (ANZSCO 234711) is a recognised skilled occupation with a number of potential Australian visa pathways. Veterinarians may be eligible for skilled migration, state or territory nomination, employer-sponsored visas and regional pathways, depending on their circumstances.

This guide explains the difference between veterinary nursing and veterinary practice, how the occupation of Veterinarian is assessed for migration, potential visa pathways, employer sponsorship and regional opportunities, and what overseas veterinary professionals need to know before applying.

Is Veterinary Nursing on Australia’s Skilled Migration List in 2026?

If you work as a veterinary nurse overseas, it is important not to assume that your occupation is treated the same way as Veterinarian (ANZSCO 234711) for Australian migration purposes.

A veterinarian is a qualified veterinary medical professional who diagnoses, treats and prevents animal diseases, ailments and injuries. Veterinarians may perform surgery, prescribe medication, conduct diagnostic testing and provide medical advice to animal owners.

Veterinary nurses, on the other hand, support veterinarians and veterinary practices with clinical and animal-care duties. Their responsibilities can include assisting during procedures, caring for animals, preparing equipment, administering treatments under veterinary direction and supporting the day-to-day operation of a veterinary practice.

These are different occupations, and having experience as a veterinary nurse does not automatically mean you can nominate Veterinarian (234711) for an Australian skilled visa.

If your goal is Australian migration, your occupation must accurately reflect your qualifications, employment history and actual duties.

For this reason, overseas veterinary professionals should establish their correct occupation classification before selecting a visa pathway.

What Is a Veterinarian in Australia?

The Australian occupation of Veterinarian (ANZSCO 234711) falls within Group 2347 Veterinarians.

Veterinarians diagnose, treat and prevent animal diseases, ailments and injuries. The occupation is classified at ANZSCO Skill Level 1, meaning it generally requires a bachelor’s degree or higher qualification.

Veterinarians can work with companion animals, livestock, horses and other animal groups. Some also specialise in areas such as veterinary pathology, parasitology, surgery or other areas of veterinary medicine.

Typical veterinary duties include:

  • Examining animals and diagnosing medical conditions
  • Treating animals medically and surgically
  • Prescribing and administering medications
  • Using diagnostic imaging such as X-rays and ultrasound
  • Performing surgery and treating wounds
  • Setting broken bones
  • Providing obstetric services
  • Vaccinating animals and testing for infectious diseases
  • Participating in animal disease prevention programs
  • Performing autopsies to determine causes of death
  • Advising owners about animal health, nutrition, hygiene and care
  • Working with pharmaceutical and biological product companies

Are Veterinarians on Australia’s Skilled Migration List in 2026?

Yes. Veterinarian (ANZSCO 234711) is a recognised skilled occupation with multiple potential visa pathways.

However, being listed as an eligible occupation does not automatically mean that every veterinarian will qualify for an Australian visa.

Applicants still need to satisfy the requirements of their chosen visa, which can include:

  • Age requirements
  • English language requirements
  • Qualifications
  • Skills assessment
  • Professional registration
  • Work experience
  • Points requirements
  • State or territory nomination requirements
  • Employer sponsorship requirements
  • Health and character requirements

The specific requirements depend on the visa pathway.

Veterinarians should also remember that Australian skilled migration programs can change between program years. Occupation lists, state nomination criteria, invitation thresholds and visa requirements should therefore be checked before submitting an application.

Skills Assessment for Veterinarians

A positive skills assessment is generally required for veterinarians applying for the skilled visa pathways that require a skills assessment.

The relevant assessing authority for Veterinarian (ANZSCO 234711) is the Australasian Veterinary Boards Council (AVBC).

To receive a positive skills assessment, applicants generally need to satisfy the AVBC’s requirements relating to veterinary qualifications, registration and English language ability.

Veterinary Qualifications

Applicants must have completed a veterinary qualification recognised by the AVBC.

This is an important consideration for overseas veterinarians because having a veterinary degree from another country does not automatically mean that the qualification will meet Australian requirements.

The AVBC assesses whether the applicant’s qualification meets the relevant standards.

Australian Veterinary Registration

Applicants also need current registration without imposed conditions, subject to the applicable AVBC requirements.

Veterinary registration is particularly important because veterinary medicine is a regulated profession in Australia.

The requirements for registration can differ depending on the applicant’s qualifications and circumstances, so overseas veterinarians should investigate the registration process early.

English Language Requirements

The AVBC also has English language requirements.

The English standards include the following minimum scores for the relevant tests:

IELTS

  • Minimum 7.0 in each component

OET

  • Minimum B or 350 in each component

PTE Academic

  • Minimum 65 in each component

TOEFL iBT

  • Minimum 24 for listening and reading
  • Minimum 27 for writing
  • Minimum 23 for speaking

Applicants should check the current AVBC requirements before sitting an English test, as requirements and accepted tests can change.

Visa Options for Veterinarians in Australia

Veterinarians may have several potential pathways to work and live in Australia.

Depending on their circumstances, potential options can include:

Not every veterinarian will qualify for every pathway.

Your eligibility will depend on factors such as your age, qualifications, registration, English ability, skills assessment, work experience, points score and whether you have an Australian employer willing to sponsor you.

Skilled Migration Pathways for Veterinarians

Skilled migration can be an attractive option for veterinarians who meet the relevant eligibility requirements and can obtain the required skills assessment.

Subclass 189 Skilled Independent Visa

The Subclass 189 Skilled Independent visa is a permanent visa that does not require sponsorship by an Australian employer or nomination by a state or territory.

Applicants submit an Expression of Interest through SkillSelect and must receive an invitation before applying.

For veterinarians who have a competitive points score, the 189 can provide significant flexibility because successful applicants are not tied to a particular sponsoring employer or nominating state.

However, invitation numbers are limited and competition can be strong.

Subclass 190 Skilled Nominated Visa

The Subclass 190 Skilled Nominated visa is another permanent residency pathway.

It requires nomination by an Australian state or territory government.

State and territory governments have their own nomination criteria, which can include requirements relating to occupation, employment, residence, work experience and English language ability.

The 190 also provides an additional five points for state or territory nomination.

For a veterinarian whose points score is not competitive for a subclass 189 invitation, state nomination may provide another potential pathway.

Subclass 491 Skilled Work Regional Visa

The Subclass 491 Skilled Work Regional visa is a provisional visa designed for eligible skilled workers who intend to live and work in a designated regional area.

Veterinarians may be able to pursue the 491 through state or territory nomination or eligible family sponsorship, depending on their circumstances.

The visa can provide a pathway towards permanent residency through the Subclass 191 Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) visa, provided the relevant requirements are met.

For veterinarians who are open to working outside Australia’s major metropolitan areas, regional migration can be an important option to consider.

Employer-Sponsored Visa Options for Veterinarians

Skilled migration is not the only option available to veterinarians.

Australian veterinary clinics, animal hospitals, livestock businesses and other organisations may employ overseas veterinarians through employer-sponsored visa pathways where the relevant requirements are met.

Subclass 482 Skills in Demand Visa

The Subclass 482 Skills in Demand visa allows an approved Australian employer to sponsor an eligible overseas worker for a temporary period.

For veterinarians who have an Australian job offer, employer sponsorship can be an attractive pathway.

The employer must meet sponsorship and nomination requirements, while the applicant must satisfy the relevant visa requirements.

The occupation must also be eligible under the applicable stream and occupation arrangements at the time of application.

Subclass 186 Employer Nomination Scheme

The Subclass 186 Employer Nomination Scheme visa provides a pathway to permanent residency for eligible skilled workers nominated by an Australian employer.

Depending on the applicant’s circumstances, a veterinarian may be able to pursue employer-sponsored permanent residency directly or transition from a temporary employer-sponsored pathway.

The eligibility requirements vary between streams, so applicants should assess their circumstances before deciding which pathway to pursue.

Regional Opportunities for Veterinarians

Veterinary professionals can find opportunities across both metropolitan and regional Australia.

Regional areas can offer opportunities in:

  • Rural veterinary practices
  • Livestock and agricultural businesses
  • Mixed animal practices
  • Equine veterinary services
  • Regional animal hospitals
  • Government and biosecurity services
  • Agricultural industries

For some veterinarians, being willing to work regionally may also expand their migration options.

State and territory governments have different nomination programs, and regional programs can provide pathways that may not be available to applicants focused exclusively on major cities.

If you’re open to living outside Sydney, Melbourne or Brisbane, it may be worth investigating regional employment and migration options as part of your overall strategy.

How to Become a Veterinarian in Australia as an Overseas Professional

If you’re an overseas veterinarian planning to work in Australia, it’s important to approach the process in the right order.

The general process may include:

1. Confirm your occupation

Establish whether your qualifications and duties align with Veterinarian (ANZSCO 234711) rather than another veterinary occupation.

2. Review your veterinary qualification

Determine whether your qualification is recognised by the AVBC and whether additional assessment or registration requirements apply.

3. Investigate Australian registration

Veterinary practice is regulated in Australia, so you need to understand the registration requirements that apply to your circumstances.

4. Meet the English requirements

Check the current AVBC English language requirements and ensure your test results meet the required standards.

5. Obtain your skills assessment

Where required for your chosen visa pathway, obtain a positive skills assessment from the AVBC.

6. Calculate your migration points

If you’re considering a points-tested pathway such as the 189, 190 or 491, calculate your points and assess how competitive your profile may be.

7. Explore state nomination and employment options

Consider both skilled migration and employer-sponsored pathways. Don’t limit your options to a single state or city if you’re willing to relocate.

8. Select your visa pathway

Once you’ve assessed your eligibility, you can determine which visa pathway best matches your circumstances and long-term plans.

Can Veterinarians Get Permanent Residency in Australia?

Yes. Eligible veterinarians may be able to obtain Australian permanent residency through several pathways.

The Subclass 189 Skilled Independent visa provides a direct permanent residency pathway for eligible applicants who receive an invitation.

The Subclass 190 Skilled Nominated visa also provides permanent residency for applicants who receive state or territory nomination and meet the visa requirements.

For veterinarians who initially enter Australia on an employer-sponsored visa, the Subclass 186 Employer Nomination Scheme may provide a pathway to permanent residency where the applicant and employer satisfy the relevant requirements.

Regional veterinarians may also consider the Subclass 491, which can potentially lead to permanent residency through the Subclass 191 pathway after meeting the applicable requirements.

The best pathway depends on your individual circumstances.

Why Regional Veterinary Jobs Could Be Worth Considering

For overseas veterinarians, focusing exclusively on Australia’s largest cities could limit both employment and migration opportunities.

Regional Australia has a strong need for veterinary professionals, particularly in areas supporting agriculture, livestock and rural communities.

Being willing to relocate can potentially provide access to:

  • More employment opportunities
  • Regional veterinary practices
  • Livestock and agricultural work
  • State or territory nomination opportunities
  • Regional visa pathways
  • A potential pathway towards permanent residency

However, regional nomination criteria vary between states and territories and can change from one program year to another.

It’s therefore important to assess the current requirements rather than assuming that an occupation’s inclusion on a skilled occupation list guarantees nomination.

Common FAQs About Veterinarian Visas in Australia

1. Is Veterinary Nursing on the Australian skilled migration list?

Veterinary nursing and veterinary medicine are different occupations for Australian migration purposes. The occupation Veterinarian (ANZSCO 234711) is recognised as a skilled occupation, but veterinary nurses should not assume they can nominate the Veterinarian occupation. Your occupation must accurately reflect your qualifications, employment history and duties. If you work as a veterinary nurse, a registered migration agent can assess which occupation and visa pathways may apply.

2. Are veterinarians in demand in Australia?

Veterinarians can find employment opportunities across Australia, including metropolitan veterinary clinics, regional practices, livestock industries, animal hospitals and government services. Regional areas can offer particularly valuable opportunities for professionals willing to work outside Australia’s major cities. Employment demand does not automatically guarantee visa eligibility, however, and applicants still need to meet the requirements of their chosen visa pathway.

3. Can an overseas veterinarian work in Australia?

Yes, but overseas veterinarians generally need to meet Australian qualification, registration and English language requirements before practising as a veterinarian. The Australasian Veterinary Boards Council is the relevant skills assessment authority for migration purposes, and applicants may also need registration with an Australian Veterinary Registration Board. The exact process depends on your qualification, country of education and individual circumstances.

4. What skills assessment does a veterinarian need for Australia?

The relevant skills assessment authority for Veterinarian (ANZSCO 234711) is the AVBC. Applicants generally need to demonstrate that they hold an appropriate veterinary qualification, satisfy the relevant registration requirements and meet AVBC English language standards. A positive skills assessment is required for relevant skilled visa pathways unless an exemption applies.

5. Can veterinarians get permanent residency in Australia?

Yes. Eligible veterinarians may be able to pursue permanent residency through pathways such as the Subclass 189 Skilled Independent visa or Subclass 190 Skilled Nominated visa. Employer-sponsored pathways may also lead to permanent residency, including the Subclass 186 Employer Nomination Scheme. Regional veterinarians may have additional options through the Subclass 491 and subsequent Subclass 191 pathway.

Get Expert Help With Your Australian Veterinarian Visa

Australia can offer excellent professional opportunities for qualified veterinarians, from metropolitan veterinary practices to regional clinics, livestock industries and specialist services.

However, successfully moving to Australia involves more than finding a job. You may need to navigate AVBC skills assessment, Australian veterinary registration, English language requirements, occupation classification, state nomination and visa eligibility.

It is also important to distinguish between veterinary nursing and veterinary medicine when assessing your migration options. Your visa pathway must be based on the occupation that accurately reflects your qualifications and experience.

The experienced team at AVIE can assess your circumstances, explain your potential visa options and help you understand the steps involved in pursuing a career and life in Australia.

If you’re an overseas veterinarian considering Australia, contact AVIE to explore your eligibility and find the pathway that best fits your migration goals.