Australia immigration basics - The timeline for Australia PR process

Australia PR (Permanent Residency) is a visa status that allows skilled professionals, international graduates, and eligible family members to live, work, and study in Australia permanently.

Australia PR offers numerous benefits such as access to healthcare, long-term employment opportunities, and a pathway to citizenship. There are several routes to obtain PR, including:

• Skilled migration visas
• Employer-sponsored visas
• Family stream visas

Want to apply for Australia PR? Talk to Y-Axis for expert guidance on choosing the right visa and pathway.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for Australia PR

Migrating to Australia can be complex, but following a clear, step-by-step approach can simplify the process. From choosing the right visa pathway to receiving your PR grant, understanding each stage ensures a smoother journey toward permanent residency.

Step 1: Choose the Right PR Pathway

Selecting the correct visa pathway is the first and most important step. Australia offers multiple visa options leading to PR:

Skilled Migration Visas
Points-based visas for professionals whose skills are in demand in Australia:

• Subclass 189 (Skilled Independent Visa) – No sponsorship required.
• Subclass 190 (Skilled Nominated Visa) – Requires state nomination.
• Subclass 491 (Skilled Work Regional Visa) – Temporary regional visa, can lead to PR after 3 years.

Employer-Sponsored Visas
For professionals working with an Australian employer:

• Subclass 186 (Employer Nomination Scheme) – PR after employer sponsorship.
• Subclass 482 (Temporary Skill Shortage Visa) – Can transition to PR via employer nomination.

Family Stream PR
If you have family members who are Australian citizens or permanent residents, you can apply through the Family Sponsorship Program, which covers:

• Partner and Spouse visas
• Parent visas
• Child and dependent relative visas

Step 2: Check Your PR Eligibility and Points

Australia PR uses a points-based system for skilled migration visas. Points are awarded based on:

• Age (highest points for 25–32 years)
• English proficiency (IELTS or PTE)
• Skilled work experience
• Educational qualifications
• Australian study or regional study
• Partner’s skills or English level

Tip: Scoring 65 points is the minimum to qualify, but higher scores improve your chances of receiving an invitation. You can check your points using the Australia PR Eligibility Calculator.

Step 3: Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)

After confirming eligibility, submit an EOI through SkillSelect. Profiles are ranked, and high-ranking candidates receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for PR.

Step 4: Prepare and Submit Documents

Once you receive the ITA, gather and submit the required documents:

• Passport and identity proof
• Skill assessment results
• English test scores (IELTS/PTE)
• Educational certificates
• Employment records
• Health and character certificates

Expert Tip: Keep all documents verified and ready. Errors or delays can slow down your PR approval.

Step 5: Wait for Application Processing

Processing times vary:

Visa Type	Typical Duration
Subclass 189/190	6–12 months
Subclass 491	3 years regional work + PR
Family PR	12–18 months

While waiting, ensure your medical and police clearances remain valid.

Step 6: Receive Your PR Grant

Once approved, your Australia PR visa grants:

• The right to live, work, and study anywhere in Australia
• Access to Medicare
• Eligibility to apply for citizenship after residency requirements
• Ability to sponsor eligible family members
• Travel freely between Australia and New Zealand

PR visas are typically valid for 5 years and can be renewed with residency compliance.

Step 7: Plan for PR Renewal or Citizenship

After living in Australia for at least 4 years (with 1 year as a PR), you may apply for citizenship. Alternatively, renew your PR visa by meeting the residency and travel requirements.

Even if you hold a temporary or student visa, understanding the right PR pathway can make it easier to migrate to Australia smoothly.

 

PR Timeline Summary Table

Stage	Action	Typical Duration
Choose Visa Pathway	Research and decide your visa category	1–2 weeks
Skill Assessment	Submit to the relevant assessing body	8–12 weeks
Expression of Interest (EOI)	Wait for invitation after submission	4–8 weeks
PR Application Submission	Submit documents to DHA	2–4 weeks
Application Processing	Background checks and verification	6–12 months
PR Grant	Receive approval and PR visa	–

 

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not checking occupation demand before applying.
• Submitting incomplete or inconsistent documents.
• Ignoring regional migration options that can add bonus points.
• Waiting too long after invitation invitations expire in 60 days.

 

Make Your PR Journey Smooth

Migrating to Australia is a major life decision and the PR process, while structured, can feel complex without expert support. With up-to-date guidance on visa selection, points strategy, and document filing, you can increase your chances of a faster approval. Even if you already hold a temporary or student visa, understanding how to migrate to Australia through the right PR pathway can make the transition seamless.

Are you looking for step-by-step assistance to migrate to Australia? Talk to Y-Axis, the leading overseas immigration consultancy, for expert guidance.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can apply for Australia PR?
Skilled workers, employer-sponsored candidates, international graduates, and certain family members are eligible to apply.

What is the processing time for Australia PR?
Processing varies by visa type, but most skilled migration applications are processed within 6–12 months if all documents are complete.

Is there an age limit to apply for Australia PR?
Yes, generally applicants must be under 45 for skilled migration visas to qualify for PR points.

How much does Australia PR cost?
The cost includes visa application fees, course fees if applicable, and living expenses. Fees vary depending on the visa subclass.

Can I sponsor family members with Australia PR?
Yes, PR holders can sponsor eligible family members, including spouses, children, and dependent relatives.