Your journey to making Australia your permanent home involves several pathways and specific legal requirements. Take a look at this overview of common permanent residency (PR) pathways and application steps. For more information, visit the Department of Home Affairs website.
What is Australian Permanent Residency?
An Australian permanent resident is a non-citizen who holds a permanent visa. This status allows you to live, work, and study in Australia indefinitely. While you remain a citizen of your home country, you gain access to most of the benefits of Australian society, including the national healthcare scheme (Medicare).
Common pathways to PR
There are several ways to secure your PR status, depending on your skills, work history, or family situation.
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Skilled Migration: This is the most common route. It is a points-based system where you are assessed on age, English proficiency, and work experience.
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Employer Sponsorship: If an Australian company offers you a permanent role, they may be able to sponsor your visa.
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Family Stream: This is available if you are the partner, child, or dependent of an Australian citizen or permanent resident.
The points-based system
For skilled visas, such as the Subclass 189 or Subclass 190, you must meet a minimum points threshold. Points are awarded for:
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Age: Maximum points are typically awarded to those between 25 and 32.
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English Language Proficiency: You will need to take an approved test, like the IELTS or PTE Academic.
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Skilled Employment: Evidence of your work history in an occupation on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL).
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Educational Qualifications: Points for diplomas, degrees, or doctorates recognized by Australian standards.
Costs and processing times
Securing PR is a significant financial commitment. Planning for these expenses early is very important.
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Visa application fee: Currently starts at AUD 4,765 for the primary applicant.
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Skills Assessment fee: Varies by profession but usually ranges from AUD 500 to AUD 1,500.
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Processing time: Can range from 6 to 18 months depending on the visa category and the volume of applications.
How to apply for Australian PR
The application process is digital and follows a strict sequence. You must stay organized to avoid delays.
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Skills Assessment: Obtain a positive assessment from the relevant authority for your occupation.
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Expression of Interest (EOI): Submit an EOI through SkillSelect to notify the government of your desire to apply.
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Receive an Invitation: If your points are high enough, you will receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA).
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Submit Application: You have 60 days from the invitation to submit your final visa application and pay the fees.
Tips for a successful PR application
A well-prepared application can make the difference between a grant and a refusal. Use these tips to strengthen your chances:
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Verify your documents: Ensure your skills assessment exactly matches the details in your EOI.
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Maximize your points: Consider moving to a regional area or gaining “Proficient” or “Superior” English test results to boost your score.
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Health and Character checks: You must undergo a medical examination and provide police clearances from every country you have lived in for 12 months or more.
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Use professional help: If the process feels complex, a Registered Migration Agent (MARA) can provide expert guidance.
Rights of a Permanent Resident
Once your visa is approved, you will have the right to remain in Australia indefinitely. You can also sponsor eligible relatives for their own visas and, after meeting residency requirements, apply for Australian Citizenship.
Don’t let the complexity of the points system hold you back. With the right preparation and attention to detail, you can join the many people successfully building a new life in Australia.