Australia has grown in popularity in recent years as a destination for people wishing to move abroad for permanent residency and studies. The country’s positive attributes—a thriving economy, a wealth of opportunities, a tranquil setting, a multicultural community, and a high standard of living—are the reason.
Anyone can apply for immigration to Australia as long as they fulfill the legal requirements, regardless of their nationality, color, religion, etc. As a result, immigrants wish to become permanent residents of Australia in addition to studying or working there.
This article will discuss all the requirements and processes for foreigners to become permanent residents (PR) in Australia.
What is a Permanent Resident (PR) Visa?
Permanent residency is a visa that allows non-citizens to live, work, and study in Australia as permanent residents. In Australia, a PR visa is good for five years, and you can seek citizenship after four years of being a permanent resident.
Understanding the distinction between an Australian citizen and an Australian permanent resident might be beneficial. After fulfilling the residency requirement, people might choose to apply for citizenship.
What are the Pathways to Australian PR?
1. Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190)
A permanent visa called the Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190) is available for nominated skilled professionals who want to live and work permanently in Australia. For this visa, it would be ideal if a state or territory government agency in Australia nominated you.
Key eligibility criteria:
- It would be best if you were nominated and invited to apply for this visa.
- You must have an occupation on the relevant skilled list.
- It would be best if you had a suitable skills assessment for the occupation.
- It would help if you were below the age of 45 before you were invited to apply.
- You must be able to score 65 points or above.
2. Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189)
The Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189) is a permanent visa for invited foreign workers with highly sought-after skill sets and New Zealand nationals who have shown dedication and service to Australia and wish to live and work anywhere in Australia permanently.
There are two options under this visa: the New Zealand Stream and the Points-tested Stream.
3. Skilled Regional Visa (Subclass 491)
Skilled Regional Visa (Subclass 491) is for individuals willing to live and work in regional areas. The key criteria include a temporary visa leading to PR after 3 years, and the occupation must align with regional skill shortages.
4. Employer-Sponsored Visas
Employer-sponsored visas are for workers with job offers from Australian employers. The key criteria include sponsorship from a registered employer, and the occupation must be listed on the Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS).
Always choose a pathway that aligns with your skills, occupation, and long-term goals. For faster processing, consider regional pathways under Subclass 491.
Benefits of Australia Permanent Residency
Australia has long been a popular destination for people who choose to move abroad. The country’s positive aspects include a strong economy, which contributes to the increased number of jobs.
Australia offers a peaceful and harmonious multicultural community and a higher standard of living. It also provides immigrants with a PR visa or permanent residency.
The PR visa for Australia is valid for five years; you and your family can relocate to Australia. After four years of residency with an Australia PR visa, you can petition for citizenship. Here are the benefits of obtaining Australia PR:
- Live in Australia for an indefinite period.
- Travel anywhere in Australia.
- Pursue higher studies in Australia and get eligibility to apply for an educational loan.
- Eligibility for Social Security benefits
- Sponsor your relatives if they meet certain requirements.
- Eligibility to work in Australia
- Travel to New Zealand and can even apply for a visa there.
What Can’t You Do on an Australian PR?
Unlike Australian citizens, a permanent resident generally cannot:
- Have an Australian passport
- Vote in Australian Government elections unless you enrolled (as a British subject) before 26 January 1984
- Access student loans
- Join the Australian Defense Force
- Obtain ongoing work in the Australian Government.
- You must return to Australia from overseas with a valid travel facility (you do not have an automatic right of entry to Australia).
Australia PR Process: Eligibility Requirements for Foreigners
The requirements for applying for permanent residence in Australia differ according to the kind of visa selected. Employer Nomination, Family Sponsorship, and Skilled Migration Australia are the three most popular Australian PR routes.
Applicants must fulfill the following requirements to be eligible for permanent residency in Australia:
- Applicant must be between 18 to 45 years old at the time of application.
- A minimum of a bachelor’s degree or an equivalent qualification is required.
- Applicant should have at least 3 years of relevant work experience in a skilled occupation.
- Proficiency in English must be demonstrated through valid test scores.
- Applicants must meet health standards set by the Australian Government.
- Applicants must have a clean criminal record to be eligible.
- Applicants must provide evidence of financial stability to support themselves after arriving in Australia.
- Applicants must have scored above 65 points on the Australia Point-Based System.
- For skilled migration applicant’s occupation must be in this Australia Skilled Occupation List (SOL).
- Additional identification documents such as birth certificates might be required to verify identity.
What is the Processing Time for Australia PR?
Your application for a permanent residence visa to Australia typically takes 6.5 to 8 months to process. The schedule varies from stage to stage. The time required for each step is broken down here. The sum of the time spent on each step determines the overall processing time for your PR visa.
- Skill assessment: The processing time ranges from 45 to 90 days.
- Visa Approval: This process takes about 3 to 12 months.
- Preparation for Departure: 2-3 weeks
What are the Factors Affecting Processing Time for Australia PR Visa
Numerous factors can influence processing time, which may change each month due to various variables. These include the volume of incoming applications, periods when more applications are submitted, more complex cases, or applications that still need to be completed.
Additional factors that affect processing times are as follows:
- Incorrect applications
- Lack of supporting documents
- Time is taken to answer any queries raised by immigration officers.
- Demand for the applicant’s occupation in Australia
- Inadequate points scored by the applicant in the Skill-select online system.
- Delay in the background verification process
- Time is taken to receive information from external agencies about health or character.
- Number of places available in the migration program
Final Thoughts
To obtain Australia PR, you must meet revised standards, select the appropriate method, and submit the appropriate paperwork. From students to skilled workers, there is a road for everyone, and choices include employer-sponsored paths, the Skilled Nominated Visa, and the Skilled Independent Visa. To ensure you fulfill all requirements and increase your chances of success, begin your preparation as soon as possible.
