How to Get Australian Residency

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Australia is a dream destination for many individuals seeking better job opportunities, a higher quality of life, or simply a new adventure. Known for its stunning landscapes, strong economy, and multicultural society, Australia offers various pathways to permanent residency (PR) for skilled workers, students, family members, and investors. If you’re interested in settling in Australia, this comprehensive guide will walk you through the eligibility criteria, visa options, application processes, and tips on how to secure your Australian permanent residency.

Why Choose Australia for Permanent Residency?

Australia has become a popular destination for migrants worldwide due to its excellent healthcare, robust job market, reputable education system, and high quality of life. Moreover, permanent residents enjoy many benefits similar to Australian citizens, such as access to public health services, the ability to work and study anywhere in the country, and eventually, the option to apply for full citizenship.

1. Understanding Australian Permanent Residency (PR)

Permanent Residency (PR) allows you to live, work, and study in Australia indefinitely. Unlike a temporary visa, which usually has an expiration date, PR provides more security and access to various benefits, including:

  • Medicare: Access to the government-run healthcare system.
  • Work and Study Rights: Freedom to work and study anywhere in the country.
  • Social Security Benefits: After two years, you may be eligible for certain social security payments.
  • Family Sponsorship: Ability to sponsor eligible family members for permanent residency.
  • Pathway to Citizenship: After holding PR for a set period, you can apply for Australian citizenship.

2. Eligibility Requirements for Australian PR

Before applying for any PR pathway, ensure you meet the basic eligibility requirements, which may vary based on your chosen visa type. Generally, the criteria include:

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  • Age: Applicants are usually required to be under 45 years of age at the time of applying for most skilled visas.
  • Occupation: Your occupation should be on one of the relevant skilled occupation lists (Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List – MLTSSL, Short-term Skilled Occupation List – STSOL).
  • Skills Assessment: You must get a positive skills assessment for your occupation from an authorized assessing body.
  • English Proficiency: An acceptable score in an English language test like IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE is required.
  • Health and Character Checks: You need to undergo medical examinations and provide police clearance certificates to demonstrate good health and character.
  • Points Test: For points-tested visas, a minimum score of 65 points is generally required, which is calculated based on your age, education, work experience, language proficiency, and other factors.

There are multiple visa pathways to obtain Australian PR. Below are some of the most common options:

A. Skilled Migration Visa

Australia’s skilled migration program is designed to attract highly qualified individuals to fill gaps in the Australian workforce. The popular visas under this category include:

  1. Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189):
    • This points-tested visa does not require any sponsorship by a state, employer, or family member.
    • Ideal for highly skilled professionals who can meet the points requirement and have their occupation listed on the MLTSSL.
    • Allows you to live and work anywhere in Australia as a permanent resident.
  2. Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190):
    • A state or territory nominates applicants who have occupations on the MLTSSL or STSOL.
    • This visa requires a commitment to living and working in the nominating state or territory for at least two years.
    • It is also a points-tested visa but provides additional points for nomination.
  3. Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491):
    • A regional visa that requires state or territory nomination or family sponsorship.
    • Applicants need to live and work in regional Australia for three years before being eligible for permanent residency.

B. Employer-Sponsored Visa

Employers can sponsor skilled foreign workers if they cannot find a suitable Australian to fill a role. The main employer-sponsored visas are:

  1. Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186):
    • Permanent visa that allows skilled workers to work in Australia under three streams: Direct Entry, Temporary Residence Transition, and Labour Agreement.
    • Requires employer sponsorship and meets specific work experience and English language requirements.
  2. Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (Subclass 187):
    • For skilled workers who are sponsored by an employer in regional Australia.
    • Requires commitment to live and work in a regional area for a designated period.

C. Family-Sponsored Visa

Australian citizens and permanent residents can sponsor family members for PR. Popular visas under this category include:

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  1. Partner Visa (Subclass 820/801 and 309/100):
    • For those married to, or in a de facto relationship with, an Australian citizen or permanent resident.
    • Initially, you are granted a temporary partner visa, followed by a permanent partner visa after a two-year period.
  2. Parent Visa (Subclass 103 and 143):
    • For parents of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.
    • The contributory parent visa (Subclass 143) offers a faster process but requires higher fees.

D. Business and Investor Visa

Australia encourages entrepreneurs, business owners, and investors to migrate and contribute to the economy. The key visa types include:

  1. Business Innovation and Investment Visa (Subclass 188 and 888):
    • This provisional visa allows business owners and investors to establish or manage a business in Australia.
    • You can apply for the permanent visa (Subclass 888) after meeting specific requirements in terms of business success or investment.

E. Student to Permanent Residency Pathway

International students studying in Australia often transition to PR after completing their education. The pathway generally involves:

  1. Graduate Temporary Visa (Subclass 485): Allows you to stay and work in Australia after completing your studies, providing the work experience needed for a PR application.
  2. Skilled Migration Pathway: Use your Australian study and work experience to boost your points for skilled migration visas like Subclass 189 or 190.

4. Application Process for Australian Permanent Residency

Here’s a general step-by-step guide on how to apply for Australian PR:

    1. Choose the Right Visa Pathway: Assess your eligibility and select the most suitable visa category for PR based on your skills, family ties, or investment plans.
    2. Complete the Skills Assessment: Get your skills assessed by a relevant assessing authority to ensure they meet Australian standards.
    3. Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI): Create a profile in SkillSelect, an online platform used by the Department of Home Affairs, and submit an EOI, indicating your interest in applying for a visa.
    4. Wait for an Invitation to Apply (ITA): For points-tested visas, you will receive an invitation to apply for PR if your EOI meets the requirements and receives a high enough score.
    5. Apply for PR Visa: Once invited, submit your PR application along with the necessary documents, such as skills assessment, proof of English proficiency, and health and character certificates.
    6. Visa Grant and Settlement: If approved, you will receive a PR grant, allowing you to settle in Australia as a permanent resident.

5. Tips for a Successful PR Application

  • Maximize Your Points: Improve your points by getting additional qualifications, gaining work experience in your field, or achieving a high score in an English test.
  • Stay Updated on Immigration Policies: Australian immigration policies are subject to change, so stay informed on any updates that might affect your eligibility.
  • Seek Professional Assistance: Consider consulting with a registered migration agent for guidance on your application, document preparation, and meeting requirements.

Key Takeaways

  • Australian PR offers a pathway to live, work, and study in Australia indefinitely, with benefits like Medicare, social security, and eventual citizenship.
  • Various visa pathways, including skilled migration, employer sponsorship, family sponsorship, and investment, are available for prospective PR applicants.
  • Meeting eligibility criteria, scoring well in the points test, and following the proper application steps are essential for a successful PR application.

FAQs

  1. How long does it take to get Australian PR? It depends on the visa type, processing times, and individual circumstances. Generally, it can take anywhere from a few months to a few years.
  2. Can I apply for Australian PR without a job offer? Yes, visas like the Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) do not require a job offer.
  3. What is the minimum points requirement for PR? A minimum of 65 points is required, but higher points improve your chances of getting an invitation to apply.
  4. Is Australian PR permanent? While the PR visa is indefinite, the travel facility is valid for five years. After this, you must renew it or apply for citizenship.
  5. Can a PR holder access public healthcare in Australia? Yes, permanent residents can access Medicare, Australia’s public health insurance system.

Conclusion

Securing Australian permanent residency can be a life-changing decision, offering countless opportunities for personal and professional growth. By understanding the visa pathways, meeting eligibility criteria, and following the application process diligently, you can successfully embark on your journey to becoming an Australian permanent resident.

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