How to become an Australian Permanent Resident is a significant milestone for many individuals seeking to permanently live, work, and enjoy the benefits of residing in one of the world’s most desirable countries.
Australia offers various pathways to permanent residency, each with its own set of eligibility requirements.
There are pathways to permanent residency visas, each catering to different circumstances depending on each applicant.
We provide an overview of the Australian permanent residency requirements and the various visa subclasses.
Employment and Skilled Migration Visas
Subclass 186 Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) visa is a pathway to permanent residency in Australia for skilled workers who are nominated by their Australian employer.
There are 3 streams to the Employer Nomination Scheme Permanent Residency Australia visa Subclass 186.
Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) Stream
For individuals who have worked for their nominating employer on a Subclass 482 Temporary Skill Shortage visa for at least two years.
Direct Entry Stream (DE) Stream
For applicants who do not hold a Subclass 482 or have not worked with their nominating employer for at least two years on the Subclass 482, this stream is suitable for those applying directly from overseas or those who are not eligible for the TRT stream, making it an option for individuals seeking Australian PR.
Eligibility requirements for the Subclass 186 visa TRT and DE Streams
- Must be nominated by an Australian business/employer
- Must have an occupation that is on a specified list of occupations
- Must obtain a positive skills assessment in the occupation (for the Direct Entry stream only)
- Meet the age, English language, qualifications and relevant employment experience requirements
Agreement Stream
For those nominated by an employer through a Labour Agreement
Subclass 189 – Skilled Independent Visa
The Subclass 189 Skilled Independent Visa allows skilled workers to live and work in Australia without employer sponsorship.
- Must have an occupation that is on a specified occupations list by the Department
- Must obtain a positive skills assessment in the occupation
- Meet the points test (65 points or more).
- Meet the age, and English language requirements
- Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect.
- Be invited by the Department to apply for the visa
- Lodge a visa application within the specified timeframe.
Subclass 190 – Skilled Nominated Visa
In addition to the eligibility requirements above, applicants for the Subclass 190 visa must be nominated by an Australian state or territory government.
Family Sponsored Visas
Family Sponsored Visas provide pathways for partners and parents to join their loved ones in Australia, with specific eligibility criteria.
Partner Visa – Onshore Subclass 820/801 or Offshore Subclass 309/100
The Partner Visa allows partners of Australian citizens or permanent residents to live in Australia with a Permanent Resident Visa, meeting specific relationship criteria.
Eligibility requirements:
- Must be in a genuine and ongoing relationship with an Australian citizen, Australian permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.
- Can either be in a de facto or de jure relationship with the Australian sponsor
- Must apply for the temporary partner visa first, and then the permanent partner visa.
Subclass 143 – Contributory Parent Visa
The Subclass 143 Contributory Parent Visa allows parents to permanently live in Australia, sponsored by their settled child.
Eligibility requirements:
- Must be sponsored by a child who is a settled Australian citizen or Australian permanent resident
- Must meet the balance of family test
- Pay the significant contribution charge
Becoming an Australian Permanent Resident can involve canvassing a range of Permanent Visa Australia options and meeting specific eligibility criteria. Whether you are a skilled worker or a family member, meeting the requirements is crucial to achieving your goal.
Personalised advice and guidance from an immigration lawyer or a registered migration agent is essential when learning how to become an Australian Permanent Resident, especially given the complexities and frequent changes in Australian immigration law and policy guidelines. For expert assistance, Longton Migration offers professional services to help navigate the process smoothly.
*Disclaimer: This is intended as general information only and not to be construed as legal advice. The above information is subject to changes over time. You should always seek professional advice before taking any course of action.*
