How IC Australia Can Help
IC Australia can help you explore Australian permanent residency pathways, understand the requirements that may apply to your circumstances and prepare for the next steps in your PR application.
Australian Permanent Residency Visa Options with IC Australia
Australian permanent residency allows eligible migrants to live, work and study in Australia on an ongoing basis. PR may be available through skilled migration, employer sponsorship, state or territory nomination, and eligible family or partner pathways.
IC Australia can help you explore permanent residency options, understand the requirements that may apply to your circumstances and identify suitable pathways towards Australian PR.
What Is Permanent Residency?
Permanent residency allows eligible visa holders to live, work and study in Australia on an ongoing basis. It may also provide a pathway to Australian citizenship, depending on whether you meet the relevant eligibility and residence requirements over time.
PR may be available to skilled professionals, employer-sponsored workers, and eligible partners or family members who meet the requirements of a specific permanent residency pathway.
Unsure Which PR Pathway Is Right for You?
Australia offers several permanent residency pathways, with eligibility depending on factors such as your occupation, sponsorship options and personal circumstances.Speak with IC Australia to explore which pathway may suit your goals.
Important: Not All Temporary Visas Lead to Permanent Residency
While some temporary visas may provide a pathway to permanent residency, not every temporary visa offers this option.
Eligibility for permanent residency depends on factors such as your visa type, occupation, sponsorship status and individual circumstances. Understanding your long-term options early can help you make informed decisions.
Types of Permanent Residency Pathways
Skilled Migration Pathways
These visas are designed for individuals with qualifications and experience in occupations that are in demand in Australia. Many skilled visas are points-based and may offer a pathway to permanent residency.
Employer Sponsored Pathways
If you have a job offer from an Australian employer, you may be eligible for a sponsored work visa. These visas allow businesses to bring in overseas talent to fill specific roles.
Family and Partner Pathways
Family and Partner visa pathways may allow eligible partners or family members of Australian citizens, permanent residents or eligible New Zealand citizens to live in Australia. Depending on the visa and circumstances, these pathways can provide permanent residency directly or through a staged visa process.
Main Pathways to Permanent Residency in Australia
| Pathway | Suitable For | Sponsorship Required | Leads to PR |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skilled Migration | Qualified workers in eligible occupations | No | Yes |
| State Nominated Migration | Skilled workers nominated by a state or territory | State nomination | Yes |
| Employer Sponsored Migration | Workers sponsored by an Australian employer | Employer sponsorship | Yes |
| Partner Pathway | Eligible partners of Australian citizens or permanent residents | Partner sponsorship | Yes |
| Regional Migration | Skilled workers willing to live in regional Australia | Varies | Yes |
Eligibility requirements vary depending on the pathway and individual circumstances.
Who Can Apply for Permanent Residency?
Eligibility for Australian permanent residency depends on the pathway. Applicants may qualify through their occupation and experience, points score, state or territory nomination, employer sponsorship, or an eligible family relationship.
- Skilled professionals with eligible occupations and relevant experience
- Applicants eligible for points-tested or state-nominated skilled migration
- Workers with an eligible Australian employer sponsorship pathway
- Eligible partners or family members under relevant family pathways
- Applicants who meet pathway-specific English, health, character and other requirements
Australian Permanent Residency Requirements
Requirements vary between permanent residency pathways. Depending on the visa subclass, applicants may need to meet occupation, skills, English, points, sponsorship or nomination, health, character and evidence requirements.
- Eligible occupation, qualifications and relevant work experience
- Skills assessment and English language evidence where required
- Points threshold and invitation for relevant points-tested pathways
- Employer sponsorship or state or territory nomination where applicable
- Health and character checks, together with complete supporting evidence for the selected visa subclass
How to Apply for Permanent Residency in Australia
The process generally includes choosing the right pathway, checking eligibility, preparing documents and submitting your application.
Starting with a clear plan can help reduce delays and improve your chances.
1. Choose a PR Pathway
Compare skilled, employer-sponsored, state-nominated, regional, partner or other relevant pathways.
2. Check Your Eligibility
Check the pathway’s occupation, points, sponsorship, nomination or relationship requirements.
3. Prepare Your Documents
Gather identity, qualifications, employment, English, skills assessment and other required evidence.
4. Submit Your Application
Complete any required prior steps, lodge the visa application and respond during processing.
How Much Does Australian Permanent Residency Cost?
The cost of Australian permanent residency varies depending on the visa pathway, the applicant’s circumstances and whether family members are included. Costs may include government visa application charges, skills assessments, English language tests, health examinations, police certificates and supporting documents. Check the current fees for your specific visa before applying.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the requirements for permanent residency in Australia?
Requirements depend on the permanent residency pathway. Applicants may need an eligible occupation, relevant qualifications and work experience, a skills assessment, English language evidence, sufficient points, employer sponsorship or state nomination, and appropriate health and character checks.
How do I get permanent residency in Australia?
Permanent residency may be available through skilled migration, state or territory nomination, employer sponsorship, regional migration, or eligible partner and family pathways. The appropriate route depends on factors such as your occupation, skills, work experience, sponsorship options and personal circumstances.
How long does it take to get permanent residency in Australia?
The time required depends on the visa subclass, your circumstances and current Department of Home Affairs processing conditions. Some pathways also involve steps before the visa application, such as a skills assessment, expression of interest, nomination or employer sponsorship.
How much does permanent residency in Australia cost?
The total cost varies by visa pathway and circumstances. Expenses may include government application charges, skills assessments, English tests, health examinations, police certificates and other supporting documentation. Additional charges may also apply when family members are included.
Can I get permanent residency in Australia through work?
Yes, some Australian permanent residency pathways are based on skilled employment or employer sponsorship. Other skilled migration pathways may not require an employer but can depend on your occupation, points score, skills assessment and state or territory nomination.
What is the difference between Australian permanent residency and citizenship?
Permanent residents can generally live, work and study in Australia indefinitely, but permanent residency and citizenship are different statuses. Eligible permanent residents may later apply for Australian citizenship if they meet the applicable residence and other requirements.