Why apply for an Australian permanent residency?

Securing Australia Permanent Residency (PR) in 2025 opens the door to a stable and high-quality life for skilled professionals and their families. With PR status, you gain the right to live, work, and study anywhere in Australia indefinitely. It also comes with full access to government-subsidized healthcare (Medicare), social security support, and a five-year travel facility that allows you to leave and re-enter Australia freely.

After four years of lawful residence, PR holders become eligible to apply for Australian citizenship—a milestone that offers deeper integration and rights within the country. In recent years, Australia has significantly expanded its migration intake. Over 160,000 permanent visas were granted in 2023, and with a growing need for skilled professionals, 2025 is one of the most opportune times to apply for PR.

Choosing to migrate to Australia through PR is not just about relocation, it’s a long-term investment in personal growth, career advancement, and family well-being.

 

Key Updates & Reasons to Apply for Australia PR 

• Ranked as the 8th happiest country globally
• Welcoming 500,000 new migrants in 2024
• 800,000 job openings available for skilled workers
• Australia PR offers up to 100-fold return on investment
• Access to comprehensive Universal Healthcare services
• Complimentary education for your children in public schools
• Eligibility for retirement benefits as a permanent resident
• Simplified and straightforward path to Australian citizenship

Australia PR process

Australia PR Process: Three Different Stages

The process of obtaining Australia PR can be broadly divided into three key stages:

1. Australia Skill Assessment

This initial stage involves getting your skills assessed by a designated skill assessment body relevant to your occupation. The assessment verifies that your qualifications and work experience meet Australian standards. A positive skill assessment is mandatory for most skilled visa applications and is crucial for meeting eligibility criteria.

2. Australia PR Visa Approval

After successful skill assessment and submission of a complete Australia PR application, including an Expression of Interest (EOI) and meeting visa requirements such as age, English proficiency, health, and character checks, the application is processed by the Australian immigration authorities. Processing times vary by visa subclass but generally range from 6 to 12 months. Upon approval, you receive your permanent residency visa, allowing you to live, work, and study in Australia indefinitely.

3. Preparation for Departure

Once your Australia PR visa is granted, you can prepare for your move to Australia. This includes organizing travel documents, understanding your rights and responsibilities as an Australian permanent resident, and planning your settlement. The PR visa comes with a travel facility valid for five years, permitting you to travel internationally and re-enter Australia. After residing in Australia for four years, you may become eligible to apply for Australian citizenship.

* Need guidance to apply for Australia PR? Get expert advice with Migrate to Australia!

Types of Australian PR visa 

Australia offers several permanent visa pathways, depending on your skills, background, and reason for migrating. Whether you're a skilled professional, have family in Australia, or want to invest or start a business, there's a PR visa option designed for your profile.

Choosing the right visa stream is the first step toward building a future in Australia.

• Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189): Points-tested, no sponsorship required.
• Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190): Requires state or territory nomination.
• Employer-Sponsored Visas ( subclass 186): For workers sponsored by Australian employers.
• Regional Visas (subclass 491 leading): For skilled workers in regional areas.
• Family Stream Permanent Visa: For partners, parents, and other family members of Australian citizens or permanent residents.
• Special Category Visa (SCV) for New Zealand citizens, with pathways to permanent residency. Each visa category has specific eligibility criteria and benefits.
• Business Innovation Stream: Designed for business owners and entrepreneurs to establish or manage a business in Australia, leading to permanent residency.
• Investor Stream: For individuals who make a designated investment in Australia and meet specific financial and business requirements to obtain permanent residency.
• Subclass 891 Visa: A permanent visa for New Zealand citizens who have lived in Australia for a certain period and meet residency requirements.
• Graduate Work Visa (Subclass 485): Allows international graduates with skills and qualifications needed in Australia to live and work temporarily, with pathways to permanent residency.
• Professional Year Program (PYP): A structured professional development program for recent graduates in accounting, IT, or engineering to enhance employability and support permanent residency applications.
• National Innovation visa (subclass 858): A fast-track visa pathway for highly skilled individuals in specific sectors to live and work in Australia permanently.
• Australia Parent Visa: Enables parents of Australian citizens or permanent residents to live in Australia permanently, subject to eligibility and sponsorship requirements.
   

Eligibility for Australian PR 

If you're planning to move to Australia permanently, it's important to first check whether you meet the basic eligibility requirements. These criteria help determine if you qualify for a skilled migration visa. Below are the eligibility criteria to apply for Australia PR:

• Age limit: Generally under 45 years old at the time of application.
• Points test: Minimum 65 points based on age, English proficiency, work experience, education, and other factors.
• Occupation: Must be listed on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL).
• Health and character: Must pass medical examinations and police checks.
• English language proficiency: Competent level demonstrated through tests such as IELTS or PTE.
• Residence requirement: For citizenship eligibility, permanent residents must have lived in Australia for at least four years. Meeting these criteria improves the chances of a successful application.
   

*Want to check your eligibility for Australia? Avail FREE Y-Axis Australia PR Points Calculator and get an instant score!

Who Can Apply for Australian Permanent Residency (PR)?

To be eligible for Australian Permanent Residency (PR), applicants must meet specific requirements based on factors like skills, experience, and other criteria. The main categories of applicants who can apply for PR include:

• Skilled Worker

• Student

• Family Member

• Business Owners and Investor

• Refugees and Humanitarian Applicant

 

Australia PR Visa Requirements 

A minimum score of 65 points is required to qualify for an Australia PR visa. Achieving a higher score on the eligibility assessment increases your likelihood of receiving an invitation to apply for Australia PR. Candidates scoring between 80 and 85 points may become eligible for a faster invitation process. There are multiple visa categories available for applying for Australia PR, each with its own specific eligibility criteria. However, the general eligibility factors include the following:
 

• Have a valid skills assessment from a relevant assessing authority.
• Achieve a minimum score of 65 points on the points test
• Submit a valid Expression of Interest through SkillSelect (for skilled visas).
• Provide evidence of English proficiency.
• Meet health and character requirements.
• Have a valid passport or travel document.
• Submit all required documents, including identity, work experience, and educational qualifications
• Pay the applicable visa application fees

Australia PR Points Calculator

To qualify for an Australian Skilled Migration visa (Subclass 189, 190, or 491), applicants must score at least 65 points on the points test. The system rewards age, education, work experience, English proficiency, and other factors. Higher points improve your chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA).

Category	Maximum Points
Age (25-32 years)	30 points
English proficiency (8 bands)	20 points
Work Experience outside Australia (8-10 years)	15 points
Work Experience in Australia (8-10 years)	20 points
Education (outside Australia)	20 points
Doctorate degree
Niche skills such as Doctorate or master’s degree in Australia	10 points
Study in a regional Australia	5 points
Accredited in community language	5 points
Professional year in a skilled program in Australia	5 points
State sponsorship (190 visa)	5 points

How to Use the Australian PR Visa Points Calculator?

The Australian PR (Permanent Residency) visa points calculator helps assess your eligibility based on key factors like age, education, work experience, and English proficiency.

Step 1: Access the Calculator

Step 2: Input Personal Details

Step 3: Provide Education Details

Step 4: Add Work Experience

Step 5: Include Additional Factors

Step 6: Calculate Points

Step 7: If eligible, submit your Expression of Interest (EOI) and proceed with the visa application. Use the point’s calculator as your first step towards Australian PR eligibility.

How to get a PR in Australia? 

Below are the application process for Australian permanent residency:

Step 1: Determine the appropriate visa subclass based on your circumstances.
Choosing the correct visa subclass is crucial as it aligns with your occupation, skills, and personal situation. Different subclasses cater to various pathways such as skilled migration, employer sponsorship, or family sponsorship.
 

Step 2: Obtain a skills assessment from a designated skill assessment body.
This assessment verifies that your qualifications and work experience meet Australian standards. It is mandatory for most skilled visa applications and must be conducted by the relevant assessing authority for your occupation.
 

Step 3: Take an English proficiency test and achieve the required score.
Demonstrating competent English language skills through tests like IELTS or PTE is essential to meet visa requirements and improve your points score on the points test.
 

Step 4: Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect.
An EOI is an online application where you express your interest in applying for permanent residency. It includes details about your skills, qualifications, and experience and allows Australian authorities to assess your eligibility.
 

Step 5: Receive an invitation to apply for PR.
If your EOI meets the criteria and there are available places, you will be invited to lodge a formal application for permanent residency.
 

Step 6: Lodge a complete Australia PR application with all supporting documents.
Submit your application along with all necessary documents such as identity proof, skills assessment results, English test scores, and health and character certificates.
 

Step 7: Undergo medical examination and police clearance.
These checks ensure you meet the health and character requirements set by the Australian government for all visa applicants.
 

Step 8: Await visa processing and decision.
Processing times vary depending on the visa subclass and individual circumstances. During this time, your application is thoroughly reviewed.
 

Step 9: Upon approval, receive your permanent visa and move to Australia indefinitely.
With your permanent residency visa granted, you gain the right to live, work, and study in Australia indefinitely, with a travel facility valid for five years to re-enter the country.

* Need guidance to apply for Australia PR? Get expert advice with Migrate to Australia from our trusted migration consultants.

How to Renew Your Australian PR Visa?

Australian Permanent Residency (PR) visas do not typically require renewal. However, if you're looking to maintain your visa status or plan to re-enter Australia after a certain period, you may need to apply for a Resident Return Visa (RRV) to keep your permanent resident status intact. Here's how you can apply:

Step 1: Check Eligibility

• Ensure you meet the requirements for an RRV, such as having lived in Australia for a certain number of years or proving strong ties to the country.

Step 2: Prepare Required Documents

• Gather documents like your passport, any proof of your Australian residence, and evidence of your ties to Australia (e.g., family, employment, or business).

Step 3: Complete the Application

• Apply online via the Australian Department of Home Affairs website or submit a paper application.

• Fill in all required information and upload the necessary documents.

Step 4: Pay the Application Fee

• The RRV fee typically ranges from AUD $165 to AUD $365, depending on the type of visa you’re applying for.

Step 5: Submit the Application

• After completing your application, submit it online or send it to the relevant Australian consulate if applying from abroad.

Step 6: Wait for Processing

• Processing time can range from 1 to 2 weeks for online applications. However, it can take longer if additional documents are requested.

Step 7: Receive Your Resident Return Visa

• Once approved, you’ll receive your Resident Return Visa, allowing you to maintain your PR status and re-enter Australia as needed.

Benefits of Holding Australia PR

Securing an Australia Permanent Residency (PR) visa opens the door to a wide range of benefits for skilled professionals and their families. Beyond the right to live in Australia indefinitely, PR holders enjoy access to healthcare, education, and social services, while also building a pathway toward citizenship. Below are the key advantages of becoming an Australian permanent resident:

• Unrestricted Work Rights – Work in any job, for any employer, across Australia without limitations.
• Healthcare Access (Medicare) – Enjoy subsidized healthcare services under Australia’s public health system.
• Education Benefits – Children can attend government schools at local rates and access higher education at domestic student fees.
• Citizenship Pathway – Apply for Australian citizenship after meeting residency and character requirements.
• Government Services & Benefits – Access to certain welfare benefits and services after a qualifying period.
• Family Sponsorship – Sponsor eligible family members to join you as permanent residents.
• Travel Flexibility – Multiple re-entry rights into Australia with visa renewals available for long-term stays.

What is an Australia PR Visa?

An Australia Permanent Residency (PR) visa allows non-citizens to live, work, and study in Australia indefinitely. While PR holders enjoy most of the rights of Australian citizens including access to healthcare, education, and work opportunities, they cannot vote in federal elections or hold an Australian passport.

A PR visa includes a 5-year travel facility, allowing you to freely leave and re-enter Australia during that period. After 5 years, you can apply for a Resident Return Visa (RRV) to maintain your travel rights. Holding PR status is also a major step toward gaining Australian citizenship, which you may become eligible for after four years of lawful residence (with at least one year as a PR holder).

Australia 189 Visa - Skilled Independent Visa

The Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189) is a points-tested visa for skilled workers not sponsored by an employer, state, or family member. It allows holders to live and work anywhere in Australia permanently. To qualify, applicants must:

• Have an occupation on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL).
• Meet the points test minimum of 65 points.
• Pass health and character checks.
• Submit an Expression of Interest and receive an invitation to apply. This visa is popular among skilled migrants seeking flexibility and independence.

Australia 190 Visa - Skilled Nominated Visa

The Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190) requires nomination by an Australian state or territory government. It is also points-tested and allows holders to live and work permanently in the nominating state or territory. Applicants must:

• Have an occupation on the relevant state’s Skilled Occupation List.
• Meet the points test and other eligibility criteria.
• Commit to living in the nominating region for at least two years. This visa supports regional development and skilled workforce needs.

Subclass 491 — Skilled Work Regional (Provisional)

Applicants nominated by a regional state/territory or sponsored by an eligible regional family member.

• Under 45 at invitation
• Positive skills assessment in regional occupation list
• Minimum 65 points (nomination/family adds +15)
• Competent English

Subclass 189 vs 190 vs 491 — Key Differences

Australia offers multiple skilled migration visa pathways, each designed for different applicant needs. The Subclass 189, 190, and 491 visas vary in terms of nomination requirements, permanency, and regional obligations. Understanding these differences helps applicants choose the right pathway based on their profile, career goals, and settlement preferences.

Detailed information about the differences between subclass 189, 190, and 491 visas are given below:

Feature	Subclass 189 — Skilled Independent	Subclass 190 — Skilled Nominated	Subclass 491 — Skilled Work Regional (Provisional)
Nomination / Sponsorship	Not required (independent)	State/Territory nomination required	State/Territory nomination or eligible regional family sponsorship
Permanency	Permanent on grant	Permanent on grant	Provisional (5 years) → PR via Subclass 191 after meeting criteria
Regional Obligations	None (live/work anywhere in Australia)	Expected to live/work in the nominating state	Must live, work, and study in designated regional areas
Points Boost	—	+5 points for nomination	+15 points for nomination/family sponsorship
Eligibility Highlights	Under 45 at invitation, skills assessment, English, 65+ points	As 189 plus meeting state list/criteria	As 190 plus regional commitment requirements
Who It Suits	High points profiles seeking full flexibility	Candidates aligned to a state’s occupation needs	Applicants needing points boost and open to regional living
PR Pathway	Direct PR	Direct PR	PR via Subclass 191 (after time, residence, and income conditions)
Work/Study Rights	Full, nationwide	Full, nationwide (state commitment expected)	Full within regional areas
Typical Trade-off	Most competitive on points	Adds obligations to a specific state	Strong points boost but regional residency required

Top High-Demand Jobs in Australia for Skilled Migrants

Australia continues to experience skill shortages across key sectors, creating strong opportunities for qualified migrants. If your background matches a high-demand occupation, your chances of getting a PR invitation increase significantly.

In 2025, the most in-demand sectors and their average salaries include:

OCCUPATION	ANNUAL SALARY IN AUD
IT	$99,642 – $ 115, 000
Marketing & Sales	$84,072 – $103,202
Engineering	$92,517 – $110,008
Hospitality	$60,000 – $75,000
Healthcare	$101,569- $169279
Accounting & Finance	$77,842 – $92,347
Human Resources	$80,000 – $99,519
Construction	$72,604 – $99,552
Professional and Scientific Services	$90,569 – $108,544

If your job role is listed on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL), and you meet other eligibility requirements, your path to PR can be faster and more straightforward.

 

Australian PR Processing Fee 

The cost of applying for Australia PR varies by visa subclass and number of applicants. The table below has a complete overview of the Australia PR fees: 

Visa Subclass	Application Fee (Primary Applicant)	Additional Applicant Fees
Subclass 189(Skilled Independent)	AUD 4,910	Adult partner: AUD 2,455 Child: AUD 1,230
Subclass 190(Skilled Nominated)	AUD 4,910	Adult partner: AUD 2,455 Child: AUD 1,230
Subclass 491(Skilled Work Regional)	AUD 4,910	Adult partner: AUD 2,455 Child: AUD 1,230

Other costs include:

• Skills assessment fees: AUD 300 to AUD 1,000+
• English tests: AUD 300 to AUD 400
• Medical examinations: AUD 300 to AUD 500
• Police clearance certificates Applicants should budget for these expenses to ensure a smooth application process.
   

What is a Skill Assessment for Australia PR?

A skill assessment is conducted by a designated skill assessment body relevant to the applicant’s occupation. This assessment verifies that the applicant’s qualifications and work experience meet Australian standards. Examples of assessing authorities include Engineers Australia, the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Accreditation Council, and the Australian Computer Society. A positive skills assessment is mandatory for most skilled visa applications.
 

Australia PR Visa Processing Time

Processing times for Australia PR applications depend on the visa subclass and the individual case. On average:

Visa Subclass	Estimated Processing Time
Subclass 189(Skilled Independent)	8 to 12 months
Subclass 190(Skilled Nominated)	6 to 12 months
Subclass 491(Skilled Work Regional)	9 to 12 months

 

Factors affecting the Australia PR Visa processing time

Several factors can affect processing times:

• Incomplete or incorrect documentation.
• Delays in obtaining medical or police clearance certificates.
• High volume of applications during peak periods.
• Complexity of the case or additional checks required.
• Changes in immigration policy or visa requirements. Ensuring a complete and accurate application can help minimize delays.
   

Long-term ROI for Skilled Migrants

Investing in Australia through certain visa pathways can yield significant returns. Australia’s strong economy, stable political environment, and high quality of life attract investors and skilled migrants alike. Property investments, business ventures, and education opportunities offer long-term benefits. Skilled migrants with PR status can access Australia’s growing job market and social services, enhancing their financial and personal prospects.

Top Tips to Get Your Australian PR Visa Processed Faster

Delays in Australian PR visa processing often happen due to incomplete applications or missing documentation. To speed up your PR process and increase your chances of approval, follow these expert tips:

1. Submit a Complete and Accurate Application

Ensure your application is complete and all documents are valid. Missing or incorrect information can delay the processing or lead to a refusal.

2. Get Your Skills Assessment Done Early

A valid Skills Assessment Report from the appropriate assessing authority is crucial. This confirms your qualifications and work experience align with Australian standards.

3. Take the English Proficiency Test

Secure your IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL results early. Higher scores improve your points and strengthen your Expression of Interest (EOI) in SkillSelect.

4. Choose the Right Visa Subclass

Understand the visa categories - Subclass 189 (Skilled Independent), Subclass 190 (State Nominated), or Subclass 491 (Regional) and pick the one that suits your profile and eligibility.

5. Select the Right Occupation from the SOL

Pick an occupation listed in Australia’s Skilled Occupation List (SOL) that closely matches your skills and job history. This is essential for your skills assessment and EOI submission.

6. Meet Health & Character Requirements

You must pass a medical exam and obtain a police clearance certificate. Failing to meet health or character standards is one of the top reasons for PR application rejection.

7. Track Your Application Through ImmiAccount

Once submitted, you can monitor your visa application status via the official ImmiAccount portal of the Australian Government.

Australian PR Processing Fees 

Here is the fee structure for the Australian Permanent Residency (PR) application process, updated for 2025:

Visa Subclass	Primary Applicant Fee	Partner Fee	Child Fee
Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189)	AUD 4,240	AUD 2,120	AUD 1,060
Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190)	AUD 4,240	AUD 2,120	AUD 1,060
Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186)	AUD 4,240	AUD 2,120	AUD 1,060
Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (subclass 187)	AUD 4,240	AUD 2,120	AUD 1,060
Business Innovation and Investment Visa (subclass 188)	AUD 4,240	AUD 2,120	AUD 1,060

Common Reasons for PR Visa Rejection

Understanding why PR applications are denied can help you avoid mistakes. Here are common reasons why an Australia PR visa might be refused:

• Submitting an application under the wrong visa subclass
• Incomplete or misleading details in the visa form
• Failing the health or character checks
• Inability to provide proof of sufficient funds
• Low English language test scores
• Violation of past visa conditions or overstaying
• Failure to provide correct or verifiable supporting documents

Australian authorities take documentation seriously. Submitting false information or conflicting records can lead to long-term bans from reapplying.

Mistakes to Avoid in Your Australia PR Application

Avoid these errors to ensure a smoother approval process:

• Contradictory details in your resume, application, or social media
• Incomplete documents or skipping important requirements
• Failing to review the application thoroughly before submission
• Applying again without addressing the reasons for past rejections
• Not declaring criminal convictions or background issues

Take the time to double-check your application, verify all claims, and ensure consistency across your statements and documents. A professional immigration consultant can guide you through these steps.

How Can Y-Axis Help You with Australia PR?

Y-Axis is a leading immigration consultancy with over 15 years of experience assisting clients to obtain Australia PR. Their expert consultants provide personalized guidance on visa options, skill assessments, and application processes. They help applicants navigate complex immigration laws to maximize the chances of a successful application. With a high success rate and comprehensive support services, Y-Axis is a trusted partner for aspiring Australian permanent residents.

Getting Australia PR can feel overwhelming but you don’t have to do it alone. With over 15 years of experience, Y-Axis has supported lakhs of people in successfully moving to Australia. The team understands how the process works and what it takes to get your application right the first time.

At Y-Axis, you get:

• Free eligibility check through the Australia Immigration Points Calculator
• Expert guidance/counseling for Australia Immigration
• Coaching services: Expert PTE coaching, IELTS proficiency Coaching
• Free career counseling; book your slot today
• Complete guidance for Australia PR visa
• Job search services to find related jobs in Australia

 

By offering end-to-end support, Y-Axis ensures applicants have a smooth and efficient journey towards obtaining Australian permanent residency.

Take the first step toward your Australia PR – Book your free consultation now.