How to Get PR in Australia (Step by Step Guide)

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Australia is a land of abundant opportunities. Many people from around the world dream of making Australia their permanent home.

One of the most common ways to achieve this dream is by obtaining Permanent Residency (PR) in Australia.

PR status allows individuals to live and work in Australia indefinitely, enjoy healthcare benefits and access many of the country’s social services.

In this step-by-step guide, we’ll explore the various pathways to obtaining PR in Australia and provide detailed information on each one.

What is Permanent Residency?

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Permanent Residency, often abbreviated as PR, is a legal status that grants foreign nationals the right to live and work in Australia indefinitely.

PR holders enjoy many of the same rights and privileges as Australian citizens, including access to healthcare and social services. (However, PR holders do not have the right to vote in federal elections).

PR is typically granted to individuals who meet certain criteria, such as skills, family connections, or business investments, and it’s a significant step toward becoming an Australian citizen.

You can read more about the rights of PR holders here: Entitlements – Permanent resident | Department of Home Affairs

Types of PR Pathways Available

There are several pathways to obtaining Permanent Residency in Australia, depending on your circumstances and qualifications.

Here are some of the most common pathways:

Family Visas

PR can be obtained through family connections, such as being sponsored by an eligible family member who is an Australian citizen. This can include visas such as the partner visa.

Business Innovation and Investment (Permanent) Visa

For those with a significant interest in investing or establishing a business in Australia, the Business Innovation and Investment Visa offers a pathway to PR. This program encourages individuals to contribute to the country’s economy and create employment opportunities.

Student and Working Visas

Many start their journey to PR in Australia by first obtaining a student visa or a working visa – and this is very common with international students.

Studying or working in the country provides an opportunity to gain experience, establish connections, and explore other pathways to PR.

About the Skilled Migration Program

One of the most popular ways to secure Permanent Residency in Australia is through the Skilled Migration Program.

This program is designed to attract individuals with skills and qualifications that are in high demand in the Australian labor market.

We’ve dedicated most of this article to discussing the Skilled Migration Program given that it is common for international students to apply for PR via this program.

Employer Visa

Employer-sponsored visas provide a pathway to PR for those who have a job offer from an Australian employer.

There are temporary visas:

These visas skilled workers to come to Australia to work on a temporary basis. It can lead to permanent residency if certain conditions are met.

There is also a permanent visa:

Employer Nomination Permanent Visa (Subclass 186)

This visa is for skilled workers who have a job offer from an Australian employer. It provides a direct pathway option to permanent residency.

Skilled Migration Visas

Skilled migration visas are points-based and designed for individuals with skills and qualifications that are in demand in Australia.

There are the permanent visas:

There is a temporary visa:

Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (Subclass 491)

These three visas are “points tested”. You’ll need to score a minimum of 65 points in the Points Test in order to eligible for these visas.

You can see the points table for each visa here:

How to Get Your Australian PR in 2023 After Study

To get PR after you study, you’ll need to satisfy particular prerequisites that are key in assessing your eligibility for a Permanent Resident visa.

You’ll need to meet criteria related to your health, character, and security to secure permanent residency. You may also need to provide documentation demonstrating your financial capacity to support both yourself and your dependent family during the initial months.

The following information applies if electing to go through the General Skilled Migration Program.

1. Check your occupation falls under a skilled occupation list

Before you apply for permanent residency in Australia, it’s crucial to determine whether your occupation is listed on the relevant Skilled Occupation List (SOL).

There are a variety of lists which outline the occupations that are currently in demand in Australia. If your occupation is on the list, you may be eligible to apply for specific skilled migration visas.

2. Complete your skills assessment

Once you confirm that your occupation is on the relevant skilled occupation list, you typically need to undergo a skills assessment.

This process is conducted by a relevant assessing authority specific to your occupation. This includes, for instance, the Australian Computer Society (for IT professionals) and Engineers Australia (for engineers).

It ensures that your qualifications and work experience are in line with the Australian standards for your chosen occupation.

3. Satisfy your Points test

The Australian immigration system uses a points-based system to assess the eligibility of skilled workers. You must accumulate a specified number of

As stated above, you’ll need to score a minimum of 65 points in the Points Test in order to be eligible for these visas. These points are based on factors like age, qualifications, work experience and language proficiency.

The higher your score, the better your chances of being invited to apply for permanent residency through skilled migration programs.

4. Meet the Government’s health requirements

To obtain permanent residency, you must undergo a health examination to ensure you meet Australia’s health requirements.

The Australian government aims to protect public health by excluding individuals with certain contagious diseases or health conditions that could strain the healthcare system.

5. Ensure your English language proficiency

Adequate English language proficiency is typically required for most skilled migration visas.

You may need to take an English language test, such as the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), and achieve a minimum score to prove your language proficiency.

6. Satisfy any proof of funds requirements

Some visa categories may necessitate proof of financial capability to support yourself and your family upon arrival in Australia.

This ensures that you can cover your living expenses while you seek employment or establish yourself in the country.

8. Seek professional advice before making an application

Applying for permanent residency in Australia is a complex process, and the rules and requirements can change over time.

Seeking professional advice from a registered migration agent or immigration lawyer is highly recommended.

They can provide guidance, assist with your application, and ensure that you follow the correct procedures, increasing your chances of success and reducing the risk of mistakes that could lead to application rejection.

How Long Does it Take to Get PR in Australia?

It generally takes between 6 to 8 months for the Department of Home Affairs to process your Australian PR application.

We suggest that you review the Department’s visa processing times guide so you can get a better understanding of the time you can expect to wait.

How Many Years Does it Take to Get PR in Australia as an International Student?

The timeline for international students to attain Permanent Residency in Australia typically falls within a range of 2 to 4 years.

Nevertheless, the precise duration varies and hinges on several variables, including the category of the student visa, your nation of origin, and, significantly, the accessibility of pertinent visa options.

How Do I get PR in Australia with a Student Visa?

If you are on a student visa, you can apply for PR in Australia after your studies. First, you’ll need to apply for a post-study work visa, giving you the opportunity to work for a number of years after studying.

You can use this time to valuable work experience that will support a PR application.

How Do Increase My Points for PR in Australia?

The best way to increase your points is to understand the points list for the particular visa you are applying for.

There are ten areas to complete your points, but where you can increase your points particularly is through improving your English, gaining valuable work experience and obtaining a qualification on the Australian Skilled Occupations List.

What are the Benefits of Obtaining PR in Australia?

Obtaining PR in Australia comes with various benefits that make it an attractive option for individuals seeking to live and work in the country. Some of the key advantages:

Residency status: PR grants you the right to live and work in Australia indefinitely. You can enjoy the stability of residing in one of the world’s most developed and desirable countries.

Access to social services: PR holders have access to many of the social services available to Australian citizens, including healthcare through Medicare. This means you can receive medical care and other essential services at subsidized rates or for free.

Travel freedom: PR holders enjoy the freedom to travel in and out of Australia without the need for a visa. This flexibility makes it easier to visit family and friends abroad.

Pathway to citizenship: After holding PR for a specified period (usually five years), you can apply for Australian citizenship, which offers additional rights, including the right to vote in federal elections.

Do you Need Help Obtaining your PR in Australia as an International Students?

International students in Australia have access to a variety of resources and support services to help them navigate the complex process of obtaining PR.

This includes:

Your University or College

Most universities and colleges in Australia have dedicated international student support offices. These offices can provide information on visas, post-study work opportunities, and pathways to PR. They often offer workshops, seminars, and one-on-one counseling to assist international students.

Migration Agents

Registered migration agents are professionals who specialize in Australian immigration law. They can provide expert guidance and assistance with visa applications, ensuring that your application is accurate, complete, and submitted on time. Be sure to choose a licensed agent for reliable advice.

Community Organizations

There are various non-profit organizations and community groups that support international students. They often offer information sessions and workshops on PR pathways, legal assistance, and networking opportunities.

Employment Support Services

Organizations and programs focused on employment, such as career counseling centers at educational institutions, can help you explore job opportunities and understand how employment can affect your PR prospects.

Legal Aid Clinics

Some educational institutions offer free or low-cost legal aid clinics that can provide guidance on immigration-related matters, including PR applications.

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