Long term
- published on 3/17/2022
- 5mins
How to get permanent residence in Australia
After an unforgettable road trip through the bush or a year of study in Melbourne, many young people dream of settling permanently in Australia. The country attracts a large number of foreigners, who represent almost a third of its population. From June 2021 to June 2022 alone, no less than 68,000 permanent residence visas were granted by the country: a figure that is expected to increase significantly in 2023 under Australia's migration policy, which reflects a historic need for foreign labour.
Spotlight on 3 permanent resident visas
There are different types of visas which allow you to live and work in Australia as a permanent resident (3 visa categories are particularly common). Although visa application requirements vary, it is always necessary to be under 50 years of age and have a good knowledge of English.
You have a job offer in Australia: Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186)
This visa is open to both temporary foreign workers (Subclass 457 visa holders) and people who have little or no work experience in Australia. To be able to apply for this visa, you must be sponsored by an Australian employer.
The application is made online, whether or not you are already in Australia. A set of supporting documents, the number of which varies depending on your circumstances, must accompany the online Immi Account form. Visa fees are high, as you will need to pay AUD 4,240. Additional fees apply if you include your spouse and children in your application. The application process takes between 49 days and 20 months, depending on the process you choose.
You do not have a job offer in Australia yet: Skilled Independent visa (Subclass 189)
It is possible to apply for this point-based visa from within or outside Australia. However, your occupation must be on a Skilled Occupation List (SOL), and you must be able to provide evidence that you have the required qualifications and/or experience.
You must start by submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI) online, via SkillSelect. You can then apply for a visa only if you receive an invitation. The visa fee is the same as for the Employer Nomination Scheme, but application processing times vary between 74 days and 3 months.
You live in regional Australia: Skilled Regional visa (Subclass 887)
This visa is for foreigners in Australia who have lived for at least two years and worked for at least one year (full-time) in certain parts of the country (unless otherwise specified in Covid-19). You must be able to provide proof of residence and proof of employment.
The visa application is made online at Immi Account: you will need to attach all the required documents. The visa costs AUD 435 and can be obtained for between 24 and 27 months.
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Get a free quoteWhat is SkillSelect?
The SkillSelect process allows the Australian government to regulate migration flows and encourage skilled worker immigration. The process is done online and is mandatory for a number of permanent residence visas.
Submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI) on SkillSelect
Depending on the type of visa you are applying for, you will be asked to provide more or less information about your occupation, work experience, qualifications, level of English proficiency, etc. Based on the information you provide, you will receive a score. Your EOI will then be visible in SkillSelect for up to 2 years.
Receive an invitation on SkillSelect and apply for a visa
During this period, you may receive an invitation to apply for a visa or an Australian employer may contact you. Please note that annual quotas per occupation may apply. If you receive an invitation, you will have 60 days to submit your visa application.
To find out more about permanent residency in Australia: visit the Australian Government website.
APRIL International is by your side in Australia
The Australian health system is among the best in the world, but expat health insurance allows you to cover certain benefits that are usually not reimbursed, such as optical care, certain dental examinations, or private sector care.
