A Complete Guide to Australia PR Visa: Process, Requirements, and Benefits

A Complete Guide to Australia PR Visa: Process, Requirements, and Benefits

Australia is one of the most desirable destinations for skilled professionals and students seeking to work and live with permanent residency status. Its strong economy, high standard of living, and world-class healthcare system make Australia a dream destination for immigration abroad. The Australia PR visa allows individuals to live, work, and settle in Australia indefinitely. Here is an informative guide that covers everything you need to know about obtaining an Australian PR visa, including eligibility, application process, and benefits.

What is an Australia PR Visa?

An Australia Permanent Residency (PR) visa grants non-citizens the legal right to live, work, and study in Australia permanently. PR holders can enjoy most of the rights and entitlements of citizens, except voting in federal elections.

There are several pathways to Australian PR

Skilled immigration

Skilled immigration under the Australian Skilled Migration Program is applicable for Subclass 189, Subclass 190, and Subclass 491. It allows experienced professionals to be eligible for immigration based on skills and occupation listed on the Australian Occupation List.

Employer-Sponsored immigration

Employer-sponsored immigration programs imply visas under Subclass 186, as applicants become eligible only if they have prior nomination from an Australian employer.

Business or Investment Visas

Business or investment visas allow applicants to settle in Australia by importing business ideas from a foreign land. This could be done via Subclass 188.

Family-Sponsored Visas

Family-sponsored visas are a part of visitor visas, applicable under subclass 600. This allows applicants to sponsor family relations for permanent residency.

Popular Pathway Categories Australia PR Visa

1. Subclass 189—Skilled Independent Visa

For skilled workers not sponsored by an employer or family member.

Points-tested and invitation-based.

Does not require a state or territory nomination.

2. Subclass 190—Skilled Nominated Visa

For skilled workers nominated by a state or territory government.

Points are tested with a minimum score of 65 points as of 2025.

Requires commitment to live and work in the nominating state.

An added advantage of 5 points added to the point assessment grid.

3. Subclass 491—Skilled Work Regional Provisional Visa

For skilled workers who want to live in regional Australia.

Requires nomination by a regional area or a relative residing in a regional location.

Leads to PR via the Subclass 191 after 3 years of regional living and working.

Added an advantage of 15 points to the point assessment grid.

Australia PR Eligibility Requirements

While each visa subclass has specific criteria, common requirements for skilled PR visas include

Age: Below 45 years at the time of invitation.

English Proficiency: Competent English (IELTS 6 or equivalent).

Skills Assessment: A positive skills assessment by the relevant authority for your occupation.

Occupation: Must be on the Skilled Occupation List

Points Test: Minimum of 65 points based on age, education, work experience, English ability, and other factors.

Health and Character Requirements: Must meet Australia's health and character standards.

Work Experience: Must have at least one year of work experience in the same field as the nominated occupation.

Step-by-Step Application Process for Australia PR

Before applying, you must check your eligibility for an Australian PR visa based on your age, skills, education, and work experience. A quick assessment can help you understand your chances and the best pathway to permanent residency.

1. Skills Assessment

This is the initial step where your qualifications and work experience are evaluated by an assessing authority. A positive skills assessment, which will assess your skills to see if your skills match an occupation on Australia’s Skilled Occupation List.

2. English Language Test

Check if you have the required proficiency in the English language by taking the specified English language IELTS, PTE Academic, or TOEFL. The required score depends on the visa subclass, but a minimum of "Competent English" is usually needed.

3. Expression of Interest (EOI)

Submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect will be the next step, outlining your skills, education, experience, and visa preference. This is not a visa application but a way to show the Australian government you're interested and eligible.

4. Get your Invitation to Apply (ITA)

Once your Expression of Interest (EOI) ranks high based on your points and occupation demand, you may receive an invitation to apply for a PR visa.

5. Lodge Your Visa Application

After receiving an invitation, you have 60 days to submit a complete visa application online. This includes personal documents, proof of skills, English test results, and any supporting evidence.

6. Health & Character Checks

Applicants must undergo medical examinations to meet Australia’s health standards and provide police clearance certificates to pass character checks. These ensure that you pose no risk to public safety or health.

7. Visa Outcome

Once all checks are complete and your application is reviewed, you’ll receive a decision. If approved, you will be granted a PR visa allowing you to live, work, and study in Australia permanently.

Australia PR visa processing Time & Fees As of 2025

Processing Time: 6 to 12 months, depending on visa type and applicant profile.

Visa Fees: AUD 4,640 for the primary applicant plus additional fees for dependents.

Benefits of the Australian PR Visa

Live in Australia for an indefinite time

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 conditions.

Eligibility to work in Australia

Travel to New Zealand, and you can even apply for a visa there

Conclusion

Securing an Australian PR visa requires careful planning, documentation, and attachment to or commitment to immigration policies. The process is competitive, particularly under the skilled migration stream. However, with the right qualifications and a well-prepared application, it is a highly achievable goal.

If you are considering permanent residency in Australia, consulting a MARA-registered migration agent can significantly increase your chances of success.

Anjali is the best immigration consultant simplifying Canada PR and visa processes through clear, informative guides for global candidates.