Immigrating to Australia involves several pathways depending on your skills, family situation, investment ability, or humanitarian need. Here's an overview of the most common immigration routes:
1. Skilled Migration
Australia runs a points-based immigration system for skilled workers. Key visa types include:
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Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189) – For highly skilled individuals not sponsored by an employer or relative.
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Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190) – Requires nomination by an Australian state or territory.
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Skilled Work Regional Visa (subclass 491) – For skilled workers willing to live in regional Australia.
Points are awarded based on age, education, English proficiency, work experience, and other factors. You generally need 65+ points to be eligible.
2. Employer-Sponsored Visas
If you have a job offer from an Australian employer:
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Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (subclass 482) – Lets employers sponsor overseas workers.
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Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186) – For permanent residence if sponsored by an employer.
3. Family Visas
For people with close family members in Australia:
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Partner visas (subclass 820/801 or 309/100) – For spouses or de facto partners of Australian citizens or permanent residents.
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Parent visas – Long waiting times unless you apply under contributory categories (which require a large payment).
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Child and other relative visas – Available under certain conditions.
4. Business and Investment Visas
For individuals investing in or starting a business:
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Business Innovation and Investment Visa (subclass 188/888) – Requires significant capital and a successful business background.
5. Humanitarian and Refugee Visas
For those fleeing persecution or seeking asylum. Australia accepts a set number of refugees annually under its humanitarian program.
Key Requirements Across Most Visas
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English proficiency (usually proven by IELTS, PTE, etc.)
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Health and character checks
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Skills assessment (for skilled visas, done by authorized assessing bodies)
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Visa application fees (can be significant, especially for family and investment routes)
Permanent Residency and Citizenship
- Many temporary visas lead to permanent residency, which allows you to live and work in Australia indefinitely.
- You can apply for citizenship after usually 4 years of legal residence, including 1 year as a permanent resident
