Pathways to Australia PR Visa and Citizenship Status!
There are various ways through which one can obtain permanent residency Australia. As a favourite immigration destination, Australia attracts thousands of skilled professionals every year due to its relaxed migration policies, accessible rules, and smooth process. Australia also offers a range of visa pathways that allow foreign nationals to make a permanent move to Down Under. Here are some of the proven ways overseas applicants may opt for to get a permanent residency status in Australia.
What is Permanent Residency Visa for Australia?
An Australian permanent residency visa is a permit granted by the government of Australia to foreign nationals that allows them to live and settle in the country indefinitely. The PR visa enables the holder to move to Australia and leverage a variety of social, healthcare, and economical benefits just like the citizens of Australia. However, a PR visa holder does not have the right to vote in federal/state election or apply for government jobs.
A permanent resident in Australia is eligible to apply for citizenship after some years. Once the waiting period is over, they may undergo a citizenship test apart from meeting the eligibility criteria.
If you are planning to immigrate to Australia, but wondering which visa pathway to opt for, we’ve got you covered. Let’s find out some of the key visa categories for obtaining PR visa status in Australia.
Skilled Visas:
Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189)- The subclass 189 visa is one of the most popular PR visa pathways designed for skilled foreign workers who want to live and work in Australia. The visa provides the holder the freedom and flexibility to settle in any part of Australia. To be eligible, you must not have attained 45 years of age at the time of apply, and score at least 65 points on the points calculator system, and have experience in one of the occupations listed on Skilled Occupation List Australia.
Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190 visa)- It is yet another permanent residency visa granted to applicants who are nominated by an Australian state or a territory government. The subclass 190 visa is a points-tested stream, wherein the state and the territory governments assess their individual labor market needs and therefore create a list of occupations for which there is a scarcity of skilled workers in a specific region.
To apply, you must be between 18 to 45 years of age, gain 65 points, and have an occupation on the Short-term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL).
Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491)- The visa enables you to live in Australia for up to five years. However, you are required to be sponsored by an eligible employer/relative or a state or a territory government in Australia.
As an Australia skilled migration visa, the subclass 491 requires applicants to score at least 65 points or more, and their occupation must also be listed on skilled occupation list.
Employer-Sponsored Visas
Temporary Skilled Shortage visa (subclass 482)- The TSS is a short-term and medium-term visa which requires applicants to have an occupation on the Skilled Occupations List (STSOL). Applicants applying under the short-term category are only eligible for a two-year visa, whereas medium-term applicants are eligible for up to four years.
You may extend your stay in Australia provided your occupation falls on the skilled occupation list, and apply for the permanent residency visa after three years.
Employer Nomination Scheme visa (subclass 186)- This is a permanent residency visa, allowing the holder to permanently move to Australia. The Subclass 186 is divided under three visa categories:
Temporary Residence Transition stream
If you are already a holder of medium-term 482 visa and have been working under your Australian employer for the past three years, you may apply for this visa. However, your employer needs to sponsor your application for the PR visa.
Direct Entry stream
You may be eligible for this stream if your occupation is on the medium-term stream, and you also have an employer who is ready to sponsor you. It is worth noting that your application will be assessed as per the occupation standards and skills needed to perform the job role. You are also required to get your credentials assessed before you apply for the visa.
Agreement Stream
The stream is suitable for candidates who are currently working in Australia or about to work for an employer under a labor agreement. Businesses using labor agreements have the authority to sponsor skilled foreign workers in occupations for which no local talent is available to fill the job position.
If you are interested in migrating to Australia or finding out more ways to immigrate to your favorite destination, give us a call or schedule an appointment with us. With our expert guidance and transparent process, we promise to assist you in designing your immigration path that will lead to your dream country.
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