How to apply for PR in Australia?

Australia is a top choice for individuals seeking Permanent Residency (PR) due to its high standard of living, world-class education, and strong economy. Gaining PR in Australia allows you to live, work, and study permanently while accessing essential benefits such as healthcare, social support, and pathways to citizenship.

The PR process involves meeting eligibility requirements, choosing the right visa category, and ensuring your skills or qualifications align with Australia's skilled occupation needs. Whether you are a skilled professional, international student, or sponsored applicant, understanding the key steps will simplify your journey to Australian PR.

Complete Guide to Apply for PR in Australia

Applying for Permanent Residency (PR) in Australia involves a step-by-step process. Whether you are a skilled professional, student, or sponsored applicant, following the correct steps is essential for a successful application.

1. Check Your Eligibility

Before applying, ensure you meet the basic eligibility criteria:

• Age: Must be under 45 years old.
• English Proficiency: A valid test like IELTS (minimum 6.0 in each band) or PTE Academic.
• Occupation: Your job must appear on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL).
• Points Requirement: Australia uses a points-based system, and you need at least 65 points to qualify.

Tip: Use the PR Points Calculator to assess your score. Factors include age, work experience, education, and English language skills.

2. Choose the Right PR Visa Category

Australia offers various PR visa types based on your profile:

• Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189): No sponsorship required; suitable for highly skilled workers.
• Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190): State or territory nomination provides additional points.
• Skilled Work Regional Visa (Subclass 491): Temporary visa leading to PR, requiring regional sponsorship.
• Employer-Sponsored Visas: For those with a job offer from an Australian employer.
• Family-Sponsored Visas: For applicants with close family members in Australia.

3. Get Your Skills Assessed

A skills assessment verifies that your qualifications and work experience match Australian standards.

• Choose the relevant assessment authority based on your occupation (e.g., Engineers Australia for engineers).
• Submit documents like degrees, work certificates, and professional experience.

4. Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)

• Lodge your Expression of Interest (EOI) through the SkillSelect online portal.
• Provide details about your age, education, work experience, and English proficiency.
• Your EOI remains in the pool for up to 2 years, during which you may receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) if you score competitively.

5. Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA)

• If your EOI is selected, you will receive an ITA for a PR visa.
• Invitations are issued based on your points score and the demand for your occupation.

6. Submit Your PR Application

Once you receive the ITA, you have 60 days to lodge your PR application.

• Attach essential documents, such as:
  • Passport
  • Skills assessment report
  • English language test results
  • Employment and educational proof
  • Police clearance certificate
  • Medical examination reports

Pay the visa application fee during submission.

7. Complete Medical and Character Checks

• Undergo a mandatory health check to meet Australia's health standards.
• Submit a police clearance certificate from all countries you've lived in for over 12 months in the last 10 years.

8. Await PR Approval

• The Department of Home Affairs processes your application. Processing times vary based on the visa type and your individual circumstances.
• Track your application status online.

How Long Does PR Take to Process?

• On average, PR processing takes between 6 to 12 months, depending on the visa subclass and the completeness of your application.

Related Insight: Learn more about PR Duration in Australia 2024 for specific timelines.

Eligibility Criteria for PR in Australia

To apply for Permanent Residency (PR) in Australia, you must meet specific pr requirements. The eligibility factors ensure that applicants align with the country's skilled workforce and immigration goals.

Applicants must be under 45 years old at the time of applying to qualify for most PR visa categories.

Proficiency in English is essential. Applicants must achieve a minimum score in tests like:

• IELTS: 6.0 in each band.
• PTE Academic: Equivalent scores accepted.

Your occupation must be listed on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL), which aligns with Australia's workforce demands. A positive skills assessment from the relevant authority is required to prove your qualifications.

Note: International students can boost eligibility by completing PR-eligible courses that are in demand.

You need relevant work experience in your nominated occupation. Points are awarded based on years of experience in Australia or overseas.

Australia's PR system works on a points-based system, where you earn points for:

• Age
• English proficiency
• Work experience
• Educational qualifications
• State or territory nomination

To qualify, you need a minimum of 65 points.

Types of PR Visas in Australia

Australia offers several PR visa options depending on your skills, qualifications, and circumstances. Choosing the right visa category is crucial for a smooth application process.

• A points-based visa that doesn't require employer or state sponsorship.
• Ideal for skilled workers whose occupations are listed on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL).
• Key benefits: Live and work anywhere in Australia without restrictions.

• A state-sponsored PR visa. Applicants must be nominated by an Australian state or territory.
• Offers additional points for state nomination, improving eligibility.
• Suitable for those with skills in demand in specific regions.

• A temporary, points-based visa that leads to PR.
• Requires regional nomination or sponsorship by an eligible family member.
• Applicants must live and work in regional Australia for at least 3 years before applying for permanent residency.

• For applicants with immediate family members (spouse, parents, or children) who are Australian citizens or PR holders.

• Applicants must be nominated by an Australian employer.
• Key pathways include the Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186) and the Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (Subclass 187).

• Designed for entrepreneurs, investors, and business owners looking to establish or manage a business in Australia.

Pro Tip: If you're an international student, completing PR eligible courses aligned with occupations in demand can make you eligible for a skilled PR visa.

PR Points System in Australia

Australia's PR Points System determines eligibility for skilled visas like Subclass 189, 190, and 491. Applicants must score a minimum of 65 points based on age, English proficiency, work experience, and qualifications.

If you want a detailed breakdown of how points are calculated, refer to our PR Points System in Australia page.

How PR-Eligible Courses Help

Choosing the right PR-eligible courses (like nursing, IT, engineering, or trade courses) can:

• Add points for education and Australian study.
• Align your qualifications with occupations in demand.

Completing these courses also opens pathways to PR through visas like the Subclass 190 (state nomination) and Subclass 491 (regional sponsorship).

Applying for PR in Australia is a life-changing opportunity, offering permanent residency, career growth, and a high quality of life. By understanding the step-by-step application process, choosing the right visa, and aligning your qualifications with Australia's skilled occupation needs, you can maximize your chances of success.