Australia, known for its stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, and high quality of life, is a sought-after destination for many looking to make a permanent move. Securing permanent residency in Australia opens doors to numerous benefits, including the right to live, work, and study in the country indefinitely. However, navigating the visa process can be daunting as there is a massive list of visas to Australia, so we decided to shortlist the ones that offer permanent residency.
Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)
The Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) is designed for skilled workers who are not sponsored by an employer, state, or family member. This points-based visa requires applicants to undergo a skills assessment and achieve a minimum score on the points test, which considers factors such as age, education, work experience, and English language proficiency. The Subclass 189 visa offers numerous benefits, including permanent residency, work and study rights, and access to healthcare through Medicare.
Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)
The Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190) is for skilled workers who are nominated by an Australian state or territory. Like the Subclass 189 visa, applicants must undergo a skills assessment and achieve satisfactory points test score. However, they must also secure a nomination from a state or territory, which may have specific requirements based on local labor market needs. This visa grants permanent residency and often provides additional advantages, such as priority processing and regional benefits.
Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Visa (Subclass 186)
The Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Visa (Subclass 186) allows skilled workers to be nominated by an Australian employer for permanent residency. There are three streams under this visa: Temporary Residence Transition, Direct Entry, and Agreement. Each stream has specific requirements, such as work experience, skills assessments, and employer sponsorship. The ENS visa provides permanent residency, work rights, and a pathway to citizenship, making it a popular choice for those with employer support.
Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (RSMS) Visa (Subclass 187)
The Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (RSMS) Visa (Subclass 187) is similar to the ENS visa but specifically targets skilled workers nominated by employers in regional Australia. This visa aims to address skill shortages in regional areas, offering incentives for migrants to live and work outside major cities. Eligibility criteria include employer sponsorship, skills assessment, and meeting regional requirements. The RSMS visa grants permanent residency and encourages regional development.
Business Innovation and Investment Visa (Subclass 888)
The Business Innovation and Investment Visa (Subclass 888) is tailored for business owners, investors, and entrepreneurs who wish to establish a business or invest in Australia. There are several streams under this visa, including Business Innovation, Investor, Significant Investor, and Premium Investor. Each stream has specific requirements, such as business turnover, investment thresholds, and state or territory nomination. This visa offers permanent residency and opportunities to grow businesses and investments in Australia.
Distinguished Talent Visa (Subclass 124/858)
The Distinguished Talent Visa (Subclass 124/858) is designed for individuals with an internationally recognized record of exceptional achievement in fields such as arts, sports, academia, or research. Applicants must demonstrate their outstanding accomplishments and the potential to contribute significantly to Australian society. This visa provides permanent residency and allows the recipient to sponsor family members, making it an attractive option for high-achieving individuals.
Partner Visa (Subclass 820/801 and 309/100)
The Australian Partner Visa is for the spouses and de facto partners of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens. This visa process typically involves two stages: a temporary visa (Subclass 820 or 309) followed by a permanent visa (Subclass 801 or 100). Applicants must provide evidence of a genuine and continuing relationship, meet health and character requirements, and often undergo a waiting period between the temporary and permanent stages.
Parent Visa (Subclass 103/143)
The Parent Visa allows parents of Australian citizens or permanent residents to live in Australia permanently. There are two main types: Contributory Parent Visa (Subclass 143) and Non-Contributory Parent Visa (Subclass 103). The Contributory Parent Visa has a higher application fee but a shorter processing time, while the Non-Contributory Parent Visa is less expensive but involves a lengthy wait. Eligibility requirements include sponsorship by a child, meeting health and character criteria, and the balance-of-family test.
Choosing the right visa type is crucial for a successful application for permanent residency in Australia. Whether you are a skilled worker, business owner, partner, or parent, there is a visa pathway tailored to your circumstances. Consulting with a migration agent or legal expert can provide personalized advice and ensure you meet all requirements. Becoming a permanent resident in Australia opens up a world of opportunities, offering a high quality of life, excellent healthcare, and a vibrant multicultural society.
