Australia remains one of the top destinations for skilled migrants, international students, and professionals seeking better opportunities, a high quality of life, and long-term settlement. If you're looking to make Australia your permanent home, this guide explains how to get a PR in Australia, including the key visa options, eligibility criteria, and application steps.
What Is Australian PR visa?
Australian PR visa allows you to live, work, and study in Australia indefinitely. PR holders enjoy many benefits similar to Australian citizens, including access to Medicare (public healthcare), education, and the ability to sponsor family members. After meeting certain residency and character requirements, PR holders may also be eligible for Australian citizenship.
Main Pathways to Australian PR visa
Several visa subclasses lead to PR. Here are the most common ones:
1. Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)
Type: Points-tested, permanent visa
Eligibility:
Be under 45 years of age
Have an occupation on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL)
Get a positive skills assessment
Score at least 65 points on the Points Test
Submit an Expression of Interest
No sponsor or nominator required
2. Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)
Type: State-sponsored, points-tested PR visa
Eligibility:
Same as subclass 189
Must receive a nomination from an Australian state or territory
Offers additional 5 points for nomination
3. Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491) → PR Pathway
Type: Temporary visa (5 years) leading to PR
Eligibility:
Sponsored by a regional state/territory or eligible relative
Must live and work in a regional area for at least 3 years
Can apply for PR through subclass 191 after meeting income and residency requirements
4. Employer-Sponsored Visa (Subclass 186 – ENS)
Type: Permanent visa
Eligibility:
Sponsored by an Australian employer
Generally requires at least 3 years of relevant work experience
Occupation must be on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL)
5. Partner Visa (Subclass 801/820 or 100/309)
For those in a genuine relationship with an Australian citizen or PR holder
Typically involves a temporary visa followed by a permanent partner visa
General Eligibility Criteria for PR
Regardless of the visa subclass, common criteria include:
Age: Most skilled visas require applicants to be under 45
English proficiency: Usually IELTS 6.0 or equivalent in each band
Skills assessment: Must be assessed by a relevant assessing authority
Health and character checks
Points test (for skilled migration): Factors include age, English, education, work experience, and more
Step-by-Step Process to Apply for Australia PR
Check Your Eligibility
Use the official points calculator to estimate your score.
Get a Skills Assessment
Contact the assessing authority for your occupation (e.g., ACS for IT, Engineers Australia, VETASSESS).
Take an English Test
Usually IELTS, PTE, TOEFL, or OET — higher scores may boost your points.
Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)
Through SkillSelect, wait for an invitation to apply (ITA).
Receive an Invitation to Apply
If your score is competitive and demand is high for your occupation.
Lodge Your Visa Application
Submit documents, police checks, and medicals, and pay the fee.
Wait for a Decision
Processing times vary by visa type, but updates are available on the Home Affairs website.
Tips to Improve Your PR Chances
Maximize points by improving English test results or gaining more experience
Apply early, especially if you’re close to the age cut-off
Target regional areas, which often have more opportunities and lower competition
Stay updated — immigration rules change frequently
Conlusion
Getting Australian PR Visa is achievable if you plan strategically and follow the requirements. Whether you're a skilled professional, student graduate, or partner of an Australian citizen, multiple visa options exist based on your background. Consulting with a registered migration agent can also help you navigate complex situations or increase your chances of success.
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