# Travel >> Destinations >> Ireland

Irish Medical Degrees and Australian Recognition: A Pathway to Practice

For Irish medical graduates aspiring to practice in Australia, the news is encouraging: Irish medical degrees are recognized by the Australian Medical Council (AMC). This recognition streamlines the pathway for Irish-trained doctors, reflecting the high standards and mutual alignment of medical education between the two countries.

The Assessment Process

While the degree is recognized, graduates must still complete the AMC's assessment process to obtain registration. The steps are as follows:

Primary Source Verification: The AMC verifies your medical degree (e.g., MB BCh BAO from an Irish university) through the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG) EPIC service.
English Language Proficiency: Demonstrate proficiency via IELTS Academic (minimum 7.0 in each band) or OET Medicine (Grade B in each sub-test), unless exempt (e.g., if you completed your medical degree in English in a recognized country—Ireland qualifies).
AMC Examinations:
- AMC CAT MCQ Exam: A computer-adaptive multiple-choice question exam testing clinical knowledge.
- AMC Clinical Exam: A practical exam assessing clinical skills, communication, and professionalism (currently delivered online via structured clinical scenarios).
Certificate of Completion: Upon passing both exams, you receive an AMC Certificate, enabling you to apply for registration with the Medical Board of Australia (MBA) via AHPRA.

Competent Authority Pathway

Irish graduates who have completed their internship (Foundation Year 1) in Ireland and hold full registration with the Medical Council of Ireland (MCI) may be eligible for the Competent Authority Pathway. This can exempt them from the AMC clinical exam, requiring only the MCQ exam and a period of supervised practice in Australia. Check current AMC guidelines for eligibility.

Practical Considerations

Timing: The process can take 12–24 months. Plan well in advance.
Costs: Budget for exam fees, EPIC verification, English tests, visa applications, and relocation.
Visas: Explore employer-sponsored visas (Subclass 482, 186) or Skilled Independent visas (Subclass 189/190).
Specialist Recognition: If you hold a specialist qualification (e.g., MRCPI, FRCSI), separate assessment by the relevant Australian specialist college is required.