Registration pathways for internationally qualified occupational therapists

Registration

To work as an occupational therapist in Australia, you must be registered with the Occupational Therapy Board of Australia (the Board).

You may also need to have a visa to work and live in Australia. We cannot advise you on visa eligibility.

For more information on visas, visit the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs website.
For information about skills assessments for occupational therapists moving to Australia, visit the Occupational Therapy Council website.

The visa application process and the Board registration process are separate. Success in one does not guarantee success in the other. We recommend that you do not apply for work or set up a practice until you are registered. We cannot influence employment outcomes or help you find employment.

This page provides information only for internationally qualified occupational therapists. General information about registration as an internationally qualified health practitioner is available on our International health practitioners page.

Applicants from New Zealand

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Applicants from countries other than New Zealand

If you have a qualification as an occupational therapist from a country other than New Zealand, you must show that you are qualified. The qualification requirements are outlined in section 52 and 53 of the National Law and are explained below.

There are three pathways to meet the qualification requirements. We will use the information you include on your application form to decide which pathway applies to you.

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