Portuguese physio...recognition....to australia ?????

Hello, there to everyone.

I´m a Portuguese Physio, since 2003...finish the 3 years degree and than in 2010 ..the bachelor (4 years)...decided to have experience first.

I´ve been working in the major areas of physiotherapy here in Portugal (Musculo; Neuro and Resp. In present day I’m working in Geriatrics (Aged Care - since 2004)...Finish in 2010 a 5 year degree in TCM (Tradicional Chinese Medicine). I lecture on public and privates schools (assistant in physiotherapy) for 7 years.

Want to get recognition in Australia as a Physio, but some doubts still persist...and i hope that someone could give some advice and help...

In advance i would like to say thanks in clarifying my doubts...


1rst – What are the initial procedures to start the recognition process?

2nd- I Know from previous posts, that i have to do a written test?..this is, during or after the accreditation course? How long will it take to make the exame? .i guess this is equal to all overseas physio courses or there´s exceptions???
3rd – If i pass the written test....than i only can work in limited registration?...how this works ?....
4rth - Do someone have any idea, how much time it consumes,(all of the process)?

A million questions still need answer but with time i guess they will disappear...mostly there is a fear that the labor market isn´t to good in Physiotherapy....but even worst....Went to Australia..and start from zero....and took years to start working in a profession that i´m developing from the past....11 years...

Best regards

PS: sorry about my english...i promise...with IELTS...i will improve it...

HI

The APC registration process is a lengthy one, so I suggest you start as soon as possible. Check out the APC website: Welcome to the Australian Physiotherapy Council website ? Australian Physiotherapy Council to get a better idea. To answer your questions:

1. The initial process is to get an APC assessment of your qualifications to see if you can sit the exams. The IELTS is part of the assessment I think so you have to have done this to save time.
2. After your initial assessment is done, then the APC will deem if you can sit the written exams. The exams are held a number of time a year so check the APC website.
3. If you pass you get an interim certificate which can allow you to have limited registration under supervision, which in some cases you can get work but it has to be approved by the APC.
4. When I did my registration, it probably took me almost a year to get it all done and dusted.

Good luck