APC announces change to Skills Assessment Outcome Validity

The Australian Pharmacy Council (APC) has introduced a new policy allowing overseas-trained pharmacists (OTPs) to renew their Skills Assessment Outcome (SAO).

The change, effective from 1 July 2026, means pharmacists who have successfully completed an APC exam and received an SAO, can apply for a renewal with the three-year validity period - restarting from the new issue date. This provides more time to secure visas and internship opportunities, helping reduce time pressures and costs.

APC Chief Standards Officer Kate Spencer said the policy was developed in close consultation with the Pharmacy Board of Australia and Ahpra to support candidates on their pathway to registration.

'We recognise that overseas-trained pharmacists can face complex pathways when pursuing internship opportunities and visa arrangements, alongside navigating the validity period of their SAO for Department of Home Affairs requirements.

'While APC does not influence employment or visa processes, we have worked closely with our stakeholders to strengthen the SAO framework.

'This change aims to reduce costs and timing pressures, streamline key processes, and maintain the high professional standards expected within Australia’s healthcare system. Employment outcomes remain outside APC’s remit,' Ms Spencer added.

Key updates

• SAOs for migration purposes remain valid for three years from the original issue date
• Candidates who have passed an APC exam will not need to re-sit it to renew their SAO
• The change will take effect from 1 July 2026.

Ms Spencer said the update provides greater certainty for candidates planning their next steps.

'We understand many candidates were unsure whether they would need to re-sit exams to maintain their SAO. We are pleased offer candidates' greater clarity and certainty.

In addition to SAO renewals, APC has introduced further enhancements designed to improve the candidate experience, including expanded payment options and system upgrades.

'Overseas-trained pharmacists play an important role in Australia’s healthcare system, particularly in rural and regional communities where access to services can be limited,' Ms Spencer said.

'This change supports them in maintaining the documentation required for progressing migration and employment pathways in Australia, while ensuring continued alignment with professional standards,' Ms Spencer concluded.

Further information is available on our SAO Validity Change - FAQs page.