Why apply for an Australia PR?

Obtaining Australia PR grants skilled migrants and their families the right to live, work, and study in Australia indefinitely. Permanent residency holders enjoy access to healthcare, social security benefits, and a five-year travel facility. After residing in Australia for four years, they become eligible to apply for Australian citizenship. In 2023, over 160,000 permanent visas were granted, highlighting Australia’s commitment to skilled migration. Australia PR is a crucial step towards full citizenship and integration into Australian society.
 

  • Ranked as the 8th happiest country globally
  • Welcomed 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.
 

  1. 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.
 

  1. 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 Australia 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
 

Visa options to become a Permanent Resident of Australia

Australia offers various permanent visa options tailored to different applicants:
 

Australia PR eligibility

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!
 

Australia PR 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
     

How to get an Australia PR?

The general steps to obtain Australia PR include:

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.
 

Benefits of Australia Permanent Residency

Permanent residency in Australia offers:

  • The right to live, work, and study in Australia indefinitely.
  • Access to Medicare, Australia’s public healthcare system.
  • Eligibility for social security benefits after fulfilling residency requirements.
  • Ability to sponsor eligible family members for permanent residency.
  • Freedom to travel in and out of Australia with a travel facility valid for five years.
  • Pathway to Australian citizenship after meeting residence requirements.
  • Protection under Australian laws and access to local government services. These benefits make PR highly desirable for migrants seeking a stable future in Australia.
     

What is an Australia PR Visa?

An Australia PR visa is a permanent residence visa that allows non-citizens to live in Australia indefinitely. It grants the holder many of the rights of Australian citizens, except the right to vote in federal elections and hold an Australian passport. PR visas come with a travel facility that permits holders to leave and re-enter Australia for five years from the date of grant. After this period, holders can apply for a Resident Return Visa to maintain travel rights. The PR visa is a critical step toward becoming an Australian citizen.
 

Australia 189 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

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.
     

Jobs in Australia

Australia has a strong demand for skilled workers in sectors such as healthcare, engineering, IT, construction, and education. The Skilled Occupation List is regularly updated to reflect labor market needs. In 2024, occupations such as Registered Nurses, Software Engineers, Electricians, and Civil Engineers continue to be highly sought after. Additionally, there is increased demand for healthcare professionals, IT specialists, and construction workers. Skilled migrants with qualifications and experience in these areas have strong prospects of obtaining permanent residency in Australia. Here are list of occupations and the annual salary in Australia:

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

 

Australia PR cost

The cost of applying for Australia PR varies by visa subclass and number of applicants. For example, the base application fee for subclass 189 and 190 visas is approximately AUD 4,240 for the primary applicant. Additional fees apply for family members. 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.
     

Australia Skill Assessment

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 Processing Time

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

  • Subclass 189: 6 to 9 months
  • Subclass 190: 7 to 10 months
  • Employer-sponsored visas: 8 to 12 months Factors influencing processing times include application completeness, health and character checks, and the volume of applications received. Applicants can track their application status online.
     

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.
     
Invest in Australia PR and get 100 times more returns

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.
 

How can Y-Axis help you?

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.
 

Their services include:
 

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

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Frequently Asked Questions

How to apply for an Australia PR visa?

To apply for an Australia PR visa, first determine the appropriate visa subclass based on your skills and circumstances. Obtain positive skills assessment from a designated assessing authority. Next, take an English proficiency test such as IELTS or PTE and achieve the required score. Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect, and wait for an invitation to apply. Once invited, lodge a complete application with all required documents, including health and character checks. After processing, if approved, you will be granted a permanent residency visa allowing indefinite stay in Australia.

What is an Australia PR visa?

An Australia PR visa is a permanent residence visa granted to eligible non-citizens, allowing them to live, work, and study in Australia indefinitely. It provides many rights similar to Australian citizens, except voting and holding an Australian passport. PR visas come with a travel facility valid for five years, enabling holders to travel internationally and re-enter Australia. After meeting residency requirements, permanent residents can apply for Australian citizenship, making the PR visa a critical step toward full integration into Australian society.

 

How much does an Australia PR visa cost?

The cost of an Australia PR visa varies depending on the visa subclass and number of applicants. For skilled visas like subclass 189 and 190, the base application fee is approximately AUD 4,240 for the primary applicant. Additional fees apply for family members. Other costs include skills assessment fees (AUD 300 to 1,000+), English language test fees (AUD 300 to 400), medical examinations (AUD 300 to 500), and police clearance certificates. Budgeting for these expenses is essential to ensure a smooth application process.

Is it easy to get PR in Australia?

Obtaining PR in Australia depends on meeting eligibility criteria such as age, skills, English proficiency, health, and character requirements. The process is competitive due to points-based assessments and occupation demand. Skilled migrants with qualifications in high-demand occupations and strong English skills have better chances. While the process can be complex and time-consuming, thorough preparation and meeting key requirements increase the likelihood of success. Consulting migration experts can also simplify the application journey.

Can I get PR after 2 years in Australia?

It is possible to get PR after 2 years in Australia if you meet the visa subclass requirements. Some employer-sponsored and regional provisional visas provide pathways to permanent residency after working or living in Australia for a minimum period, often around two years. However, eligibility depends on visa conditions, occupation, and meeting other criteria. Temporary visa holders should carefully check their visa subclass rules and consider applying for permanent residency once they fulfill the residency and other requirements.

 

How does an Australia PR visa lead to citizenship?

Australia PR holders become eligible to apply for citizenship after residing in Australia for at least four years, including 12 months as a permanent resident. Applicants must meet residence requirements, pass a citizenship test demonstrating knowledge of Australian values and laws, and satisfy character criteria. Citizenship grants full rights, including voting and an Australian passport. The PR visa is thus a pathway, allowing migrants to integrate fully and enjoy all privileges of Australian citizenship.

What are the requirements to apply for Australia PR?

To apply for Australia PR, applicants must generally be under 45 years old, have a positive skills assessment for an occupation on the Skilled Occupation List, achieve at least 65 points on the points test, demonstrate English proficiency, and meet health and character standards. Additional requirements include lodging an Expression of Interest and receiving an invitation to apply. Applicants must also provide identity documents, work experience proof, and pay visa application fees. Meeting these key requirements is essential for a successful application.

What are the benefits of Australia PR?

Australia PR offers permanent residents the right to live, work, and study in Australia indefinitely. Benefits include access to Medicare, social security benefits after residency requirements, and the ability to sponsor eligible family members. PR holders can travel in and out of Australia with a five-year travel facility and have protection under Australian law. PR status is also a pathway to citizenship, granting full rights such as voting and an Australian passport. These benefits provide security and opportunities for migrants and their families.

What is the Australia PR visa points calculator?

The Australia PR visa points calculator is an online tool that helps applicants estimate their points score based on factors like age, English proficiency, work experience, education, and other criteria. A minimum of 65 points is required to be eligible for most skilled visas. The calculator assists in assessing eligibility and identifying areas to improve points, such as gaining additional work experience or enhancing English skills. Using the point’s calculator is a crucial step before submitting an Expression of Interest.

What are the different Australia PR visa types?

Australia offers various PR visa types tailored to different applicants. The Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189) is points-tested and does not require sponsorship. The Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190) requires state or territory nomination. Employer-sponsored visas, such as subclass 186, cater to workers sponsored by Australian employers. Regional visas like subclass 491 lead to permanent residency through subclass 191. Family Stream Permanent Visas allow partners and parents of citizens or PR holders to apply. Each visa has specific eligibility criteria and benefits.

Is IELTS required for Australia PR?

IELTS, or the International English Language Testing System, is a test that many people take when they want to move to Australia permanently. The Australian government uses IELTS score to measure someone’s ability to speak and understand English. IELTS is accepted by most universities in Australia as well. If you want to get a high score on the IELTS test, there are some things you can do to prepare yourself and make sure you understand the material.

IELTS is an academic and general training test has all four skills: listening, reading, writing and speaking. Academic IELTS is for those who want to study at university or join a professional organization in an English-speaking country.

Most universities in Australia accept IELTS as a method of testing someone’s English language capabilities. If an applicant has completed their secondary schooling or tertiary education in an English-speaking country, they may not need to provide an IELTS score. Work experience can also be used as evidence of English proficiency.

IELTS has few critical components in the system. The minimum score of 6 in each area (Speaking, Listening, Reading, and Writing) is required. If you get higher score will gain you more points!

Points Table for IELTS Score

 IELTS Score

Points

Score 6.0 or more

0

Score 7.0 or more

10

Score 8.0 or more

20

How long is PR valid in Australia?

An Australia PR is valid for 5 years from the date of issuance of your permanent visa.

How do I get PR in Australia?

To get a PR in Australia, you can follow these steps:

Step 1: Check your eligibility for a visa

Step 2: Obtain Skill assessment report

Step 3: Register your Expression of Interest

Step 4: Get your Invitation to Apply

Step 5: Submit your Australia PR application

Step 6: Get your PR visa and migrate to Australia

How to get PR from 482 visas?

Below are the steps to get PR from subclass 482 visas:

Step 1: Check your eligibility for the visa

Step 2: Must be nominated by an employer

Step 3: Apply for the ENS 186 visa

Step 4: Wait for the visa approval

Step 5: Once approved, migrate to Australia

What happens after 5 years of PR in Australia?

A candidate granted the first residency permit usually receives a 5-year travel facility. This allows unlimited travel in and out of Australia for 5 years from the date your permanent visa was granted. After 5 years, there are two possible ways once the travel facility expires, the applicant must:

  • Resident Return visa: Apply for the Resident Return visa if they wish to re-enter Australia as a PR
  • Australian citizenship: Apply for Australian citizenship if they want to travel as an Australian citizen

There are other specific ways as well if a candidate is unable to enter Australia with a Resident Return visa or citizenship; they can apply again for a PR visa through:

  • Former Resident visa
  • Family visa
  • Skilled visa
Which is the easiest country to immigrate to?

These are the countries that are easiest to immigrate to:

  • Canada
  • Australia
  • United Arab Emirates
  • Singapore
  • Germany
How do I check my eligibility for Australian PR?

To check their eligibility for Australia Permanent Residency, an applicant can apply through the Y-Axis Australia PR points calculator, which will allow them to check their eligibility for the PR visa for free.

What is the minimum point’s requirement for Australian PR?
An applicant must score a minimum of 65 points to be eligible to apply for an Australia PR visa under the Skilled Migration Program in Australia.
Can I apply for permanent residency after 2 years?

Yes, you can apply for permanent residency in Australia after 2 years if you are a visa holder of 482 visas and the employer is willing to sponsor you. Other visa options can allow you to gain a PR visa, such as:

  • Regional visa
  • Employer Nomination visa
  • Family visa
  • Partner visa
Does PR in Australia expire?
Australian Permanent residency (PR status) does not expire, but it does limit the ability to travel freely in and out of Australia for five years. Once the five-year visa grant expires, the candidate can apply for a new RRV before the current one expires.
How can I get permanent residency fast?

You can obtain permanent residency in Australia quickly if you apply for the Australia Skilled Migration Program. For the Australia Skilled Migration Program, particularly the Skilled Independent visa (Subclass 189) or Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186), if an Australian employer is willing to sponsor you.

Is education free in Australia for PR?

Yes, the primary and secondary government schools in Australia provide free education.

What other information should I give in my application for migration?
  • Basic demographic information
  • Information on work experience
  • Residence information in any other country
  • Information on relatives/friends staying in the new country
  • Information on qualifications
  • Information on English language test scores
  • Information on dependents
  • Character and health information
Can I take my family with me if I hold a PR visa? Who all can I take along?

Many countries allow you to include your spouse and children in your PR visa application. Some countries might even allow your parents to immigrate too. It’s widely seen that once the main applicant migrates on a PR visa that person can sponsor close relatives with the eligibility to immigrate.

Which countries have the most immigrants?
  • United States — 50.6 million
  • Germany — 15.8 million
  • Saudi Arabia — 13.5 million
  • Russia — 11.6 million
  • United Kingdom — 9.4 million
  • United Arab Emirates — 8.7 million
  • France — 8.5 million
  • Canada — 8.0 million
Are babies born in Australia automatically citizens?

No, the mere birth of a baby in the country will not make them an Australian citizen. It is only possible if either of the baby’s parent is an Australian citizen or a Permanent Resident.

Which courses have PR in Australia?

There are many courses that are eligible for Australia PR including Education and Teaching, Medical science, Building and construction, Nursing and Midwife, Cooking and chef courses, Psychology, etc.