The Specialist Pathway for SIMGs: Work in Australia as a Recognised Specialist

The Specialist Pathway is for Specialist International Medical Graduates (SIMGs) who have completed specialist training overseas and wish to practise medicine in Australia. This guide outlines the different streams within the pathway, eligibility requirements, and step-by-step guidance on how to register and work as a specialist in Australia.

What Is the Specialist Pathway?

Managed by the Medical Board of Australia in collaboration with specialist medical colleges, the Specialist Pathway is available to SIMGs with qualifications comparable to those of Australian-trained specialists.

There are four streams within this pathway:

1. Specialist Recognition Pathway
2. Expedited Specialist Pathway
3. Area of Need – Specialist Pathway
4. Short-Term Training in a Medical Speciality

1. Specialist Recognition Pathway

This stream is for SIMGs whose qualifications are not included on the Medical Board’s Expedited Specialist Accepted Qualifications List.

Eligibility

• A primary medical degree recognised by both the Australian Medical Council (AMC) and the World Directory of Medical Schools (WDOMS)
• Completed specialist training and examinations in the country of origin

Application Process

1. Complete primary source verification (PSV) via EPIC
2. Apply to the relevant specialist medical college for a comparability assessment
3. Receive an outcome:
• Substantially comparable
• Partially comparable
• Not comparable
4. If eligible, secure employment and apply for limited or provisional registration
5. Complete supervised practice, assessments, and orientation
6. Apply for specialist registration

2. Expedited Specialist Pathway

Designed for SIMGs who hold one of the approved qualifications listed by the Medical Board.

Eligibility

• A recognised primary medical degree (AMC/WDOMS approved)
• A specialist qualification listed under the Expedited Specialist Pathway

Examples include:

• Anaesthetists: FRCA (UK) + CCT, FCAI (Ireland) + CSCST
• General Practitioners: MRCGP + CCT (UK), MICGP + CSCST (Ireland)
• Psychiatrists: MRCPsych + CCT
• Obstetrics & Gynaecology: MRCOG + CCT, or equivalent Irish credentials

Application Process

1. Complete PSV through AMC
2. Establish an EPIC/MyIntealth account
3. Apply for specialist registration
4. Submit a supervised practice plan
5. Complete six months of supervised practice, orientation, and cultural safety training
6. Submit reports and apply to have conditions removed

3. Area of Need – Specialist Pathway

This stream applies to SIMGs who wish to work in designated shortage areas as recognised by state or territory health authorities.

Eligibility

• AMC and WDOMS recognised medical degree
• Completed specialist training and exams
• Secured a position in a designated Area of Need

Application Process

1. Secure employment in an Area of Need
2. Complete primary source verification via EPIC
3. Apply to the relevant specialist college for an Area of Need assessment (and optional specialist recognition)
4. Apply for limited or provisional registration

Note: This pathway does not lead to long-term specialist registration unless combined with another pathway.

4. Short-Term Training in a Medical Speciality

This pathway allows SIMGs or SIMGs-in-training to complete up to 24 months of advanced training in Australia.

Eligibility

• Recognised primary medical degree (AMC and WDOMS)
• Completed or nearing completion of specialist training
• Secured a short-term training position in Australia

Application Process

1. Complete PSV via AMC
2. Create an EPIC account
3. Apply to the relevant specialist college for position assessment
4. Apply for limited or provisional registration

Note: This does not lead to ongoing registration or specialist recognition.

Choosing the Right Pathway

To determine which registration route is right for you, use the Medical Board’s self-assessment tool. Your eligibility depends on your qualifications, registration goals, and whether you plan to work short or long term.

Need Help Navigating Your Pathway?

At Globe Healthcare, we help SIMGs navigate the complexities of relocating to Australia, from exam preparation and registration to securing your first role.

Whether you’re seeking a locum, fixed-term, or permanent specialist position, we can support you every step of the way.

Contact our team today to learn more about how we can help.

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