Getting your qualifications recognised abroad

Licensing for regulated jobs

For regulated professions, expect some combination of:

• Document review: transcripts, syllabi, proof of practice hours, reference letters
• Language test: often at a high level, such as IELTS 7.0 or OET for healthcare in English speaking countries, or B2 German for nursing in Germany
• Exams: such as the NCLEX for nurses in the US and Canada, the CBT and OSCE for nurses in the UK, or state licensing exams for electricians
• Supervised practice or adaptation period: working under supervision for a set period
• Bridging courses to fill specific gaps

My experience as an electrician

I trained in Poland and worked in the UK before moving to Australia. For my visa I needed a skills assessment through Trades Recognition Australia, which included a document review and a practical assessment. After arriving, I applied for an Offshore Technical Skills Record, then worked under supervision with a provisional licence before receiving my full Queensland electrical licence. The whole process took about 14 months and cost around 5,000 Australian dollars including training courses.

Documents to prepare

• Degree certificates and full transcripts, officially translated
• Course syllabi or module descriptions (ask your university before you leave)
• Your current professional licence and a certificate of good standing from your home regulator
• Detailed employment references on company letterhead, with dates, hours and duties
• Identity documents and name change documents if applicable

While you wait

Recognition can take six months to two years. Many people work in related roles while they wait: nurses as healthcare assistants, engineers as technicians or drafters, teachers as teaching assistants. This gives you local experience, references and income, and often makes the final step easier.

Keep your home licence active

If possible, keep your professional registration active at home. Some regulators ask for current good standing, and it gives you options if plans change.

Recognition is slow and sometimes frustrating, but it is worth doing properly. A recognised qualification can double your earning potential compared with working outside your field.

This guide is general information for planning. Rules and prices change, so always confirm with the official source before you apply or sign anything.