Getting one of the Australian permanent residency visas is a significant milestone in becoming a permanent resident in Australia. There are multiple Australian permanent visas, so it’s important to know which one to choose. Here, we’ll explore the skilled, employer-sponsored, and family paths to becoming an Australian permanent resident. Read on to find your best pathway.
Skilled Australian Permanent Residency Visas
The most popular Australian residency visas are the skilled independent visa (subclass 189) and the skilled nominated visa (subclass 190). Both these Australian permanent residency schemes have a points-test system that assesses age, English, work experience, and education. Subclass 189 does not require a sponsor, but does require an invitation. Applicants often target these permanent residency visas because they are completely independent.
Employer‑Sponsored Permanent Residency Visas
The Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186) is a simple way for skilled workers to gain permanent residency in Australia via sponsorship by an approved employer. Applicants for this visa must have a genuine employment offer from an Australian employer and demonstrate a minimum of three years of work experience in their nominated occupation.
This scheme is especially advantageous for those already living in Australia under temporary work visas, as it allows a direct path to permanent residency. Another key benefit of the employer-sponsored permanent residency visas is that they can have relatively shorter processing times than other forms of skilled work visas, making them a popular choice for skilled workers who wish to reside in Australia.
Family Stream Australian Permanent Residency
Australian permanent residency visa for family members can sponsor the partner, children, and parents of Australian citizens and permanent residents. Popular Australian permanent visas include partner (subclass 100/801) and parent visas. You must demonstrate a genuine relationship. These permanent residency visas do not require skills tests but have longer processing times.
Requirements for Australian Residency Visas
All Australian permanent residency visas require you to meet health and character requirements. You’ll need to undergo medical checks and provide police checks from each country you have lived in. For the skilled permanent residency visas, you must have had a successful skills assessment and at least 65 points. These are mandatory for any of the Australian permanent residency visa.
Why Apply for Australian Visas
An Australian permanent residency visas provides many advantages, including access to Australia’s public health system, Medicare, which allows you to access health care. You will also have the right to work in any industry and to study at various educational institutions throughout Australia. And holding this visa allows you to become a citizen, where you can become a full member of the Australian community.
Beyond the individual advantages, once you have a permanent residency visa, you may also sponsor family members to come to Australia and work and live here. With a permanent Migration Program capacity of 185,000 per annum, Australian permanent visas are highly sought after. So if you want to commence a new life in Australia, now is the time to apply!
