Australia Permanent Residency 2025 – How to Get

Australia remains a top destination for migrants seeking a high quality of life, world-class education, and broad career opportunities. If you are considering making Australia your permanent home, there are several visa pathways to obtain Permanent Residency (PR) — including skilled migration, family sponsorship, business investment, and employer nomination.

This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the PR process in 2025, including eligibility requirements, visa types, and essential steps to help you successfully apply.

What Is Permanent Residency in Australia?

Permanent residency grants non-citizens the right to live, work, and study in Australia indefinitely. PR holders receive many of the same rights as Australian citizens, such as:

• Access to Medicare (Australia’s public healthcare system)
• Eligibility for domestic university tuition rates
• The ability to sponsor eligible family members for PR
• A pathway to Australian citizenship after meeting residency requirements

However, PR holders do not have the right to vote in federal elections and must apply for a Resident Return Visa (RRV) if traveling outside of Australia after the first five years.

Key Visa Pathways to Permanent Residency:

1. Skilled Migration Program

The Skilled Migration Program is designed for individuals with qualifications and experience in occupations in demand in Australia.

Relevant visa subclasses:

Subclass 189 – Skilled Independent Visa
A points-based visa for individuals who are not sponsored by an employer, state, or family member.

Subclass 190 – Skilled Nominated Visa
A state-nominated points-tested visa for individuals whose skills are in demand in a particular state or territory.

Subclass 491 – Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa
A temporary visa for skilled workers who live and work in regional Australia. After three years, eligible applicants may apply for permanent residency via the Subclass 191 visa.

General eligibility criteria:

• Aged between 18 and 44 years
• Proficient in English (typically IELTS 6.0 or equivalent)
• Occupation listed on the relevant Skilled Occupation List
• Positive skills assessment from a recognized authority
• Minimum of 65 points on the Points Test
• Submission of an Expression of Interest (EOI) via SkillSelect

2. Employer-Sponsored Visas

Employer-sponsored pathways allow individuals with a valid job offer in Australia to apply for permanent residency.

Relevant visa subclasses:

Subclass 482 – Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa
A temporary visa allowing skilled workers to be sponsored by an employer. This can lead to PR through Subclass 186 or 494.

Subclass 186 – Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS)
Grants permanent residency to skilled workers sponsored by an approved employer.

Subclass 494 – Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) Visa
Replaces the former Subclass 187 and offers a path to permanent residency after three years of regional employment.

General eligibility criteria:

• A valid job offer from an Australian employer
• Relevant work experience and qualifications
• Nomination in an eligible occupation
• Satisfy English language, health, and character requirements

3. Family Sponsorship Visas

Australian citizens and permanent residents can sponsor eligible family members for PR.

Relevant visa subclasses:

Partner Visas (Subclasses 820/801 and 309/100)
For spouses or de facto partners of Australian citizens or PR holders. Onshore applicants use Subclass 820/801, while offshore applicants use Subclass 309/100.

Parent Visas (Subclasses 103/804 or 143/173)
Allow parents of Australian citizens or PR holders to migrate to Australia. Subclass 143 (Contributory Parent Visa) offers faster processing but involves higher fees.

General eligibility criteria:

• The sponsor must be an Australian citizen or PR holder
• Evidence of a genuine relationship (for partner visas)
• Proof of financial dependency (if applicable)
• The sponsor must meet eligibility and financial criteria

4. Business and Investment Visas

Business owners, investors, and entrepreneurs may qualify for permanent residency by contributing economically to Australia.

Relevant visa subclasses:

Subclass 188 – Business Innovation and Investment Visa
A temporary visa that allows business people to operate in Australia. Leads to permanent residency through the Subclass 888 visa.

Subclass 132 – Business Talent Visa
A direct permanent residency visa for high-caliber business owners or entrepreneurs nominated by a state or territory (limited availability as of 2025).

General eligibility criteria:

• Proven business or investment background
• Nomination by a state or territory government
• Evidence of sufficient net assets and investment capital
• Business activity in Australia

Requirements:

Regardless of your chosen visa pathway, all PR applicants must meet several common requirements:

• Health and Character Checks: Medical examinations and police certificates are mandatory.
• English Language Proficiency: Minimum requirements depend on the visa subclass; IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL scores are accepted.
• Skills Assessment: For skilled migration, a positive assessment from an approved authority is required.
• Points Test: Applicable to certain visa subclasses, with a minimum score of 65 based on age, qualifications, English level, and experience.

Check Also: Australia Digital Nomad Visa – Apply Now

Benefits:

1. Right to Live and Work in Australia Indefinitely

As a permanent resident, you can live, work, and study anywhere in Australia without restrictions.

2. Pathway to Australian Citizenship

After meeting residency and character requirements, PR holders can apply for Australian citizenship, gaining the right to vote and hold an Australian passport.

3. Access to Medicare (Public Healthcare)

PR holders are eligible for Medicare, Australia’s government-funded healthcare system that covers doctor visits, hospital care, and subsidized prescriptions.

4. Sponsor Family Members

Permanent residents can sponsor eligible family members for permanent or temporary visas, helping them also settle in Australia.

5. Free or Subsidized Education

Children of PR holders can access free or low-cost public education, and residents may qualify for domestic tuition fees in universities and vocational institutions.

6. Social Security Benefits (After 2 Years)

After two years of holding PR, you may become eligible for Centrelink benefits, including unemployment aid, parenting support, and housing assistance.

7. Work Rights and Employment Flexibility

PR holders can work in any occupation and change employers freely without needing sponsorship or visa conditions.

8. Travel Flexibility

You can travel freely in and out of Australia for 5 years from the date PR is granted. After that, a Resident Return Visa (RRV) is needed to re-enter.

9. Apply for Loans and Credit

PR status improves eligibility for bank loans, mortgages, and financial services, making it easier to buy property or start a business.

10. Stability and Security

Australian PR offers a secure immigration status, making it easier to plan for the long term, raise a family, and build a future in a stable, high-income country.

Australia Skilled Migration:

Australia’s strong economy, high quality of life, and multicultural society make it a top destination for skilled workers. The Australia skilled migration program is designed to attract professionals who can contribute to the country’s workforce. If you’re considering migrating, understanding visa options like the subclass 189 visa, subclass 190 visa, and subclass 491 visa is essential to planning your move.

Australia’s Points-Based Immigration System:

Australia uses a points-based immigration system to assess skilled migrants. Points are awarded based on factors like age, education, English proficiency, work experience, and more. Applicants must meet a minimum score to be eligible for skilled migration visas.

Use the official Australia immigration points calculator to determine your current score. Generally, a score of 65 points is the minimum, but higher scores increase your chances of receiving an invitation to apply for a visa.

Subclass 189 Visa:

The subclass 189 visa is a permanent residency (PR) visa for skilled workers who are not sponsored by an employer, state, or family member. It is ideal for those with occupations on the Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL).

Key features:

• No state or employer sponsorship required
• Live and work anywhere in Australia
• Direct pathway to permanent residency

Applicants must submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect and wait for an invitation to apply.

Subclass 190 Visa:

The subclass 190 visa is also a PR visa but requires state nomination for PR. Each state or territory has its own criteria and occupation list for PR Australia, which may include additional jobs not on the federal list.

Benefits:

• Priority processing for nominated applicants
• Access to state-specific job opportunities
• Full PR rights upon approval

State nomination typically adds 5 points to your immigration score.

Subclass 491 Visa:

The subclass 491 visa is a regional visa for skilled workers willing to live and work in designated regional areas. This is a 5-year provisional visa with a pathway to PR after meeting specific requirements.

Highlights:

• Requires nomination by a state/territory or sponsorship by an eligible relative
• Must live and work in a regional area for at least 3 years
• Offers a regional visa to PR pathway via the subclass 191 visa

This visa adds 15 points to your immigration score, improving your chances of selection.

Migrate to Australia Permanently:

In addition to skilled visas, you can also migrate to Australia permanently through family-based streams, such as:

• PR through partner/spouse visa: If your partner is an Australian citizen or permanent resident, you may be eligible for a partner visa leading to permanent residency.

Other routes include:

• Employer-sponsored visas
• Business or investor visas
• Humanitarian or refugee pathways

Occupation List for PR Australia:

Your occupation must appear on one of the Australian government’s skilled occupation lists to be eligible for skilled migration. These include:

• Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL)
• Short-Term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL)
• Regional Occupation List (ROL)

Each visa type (e.g., subclass 189, 190, or 491) has its own applicable list. Reviewing the updated occupation list for PR Australia is essential before submitting your EOI.

DHA PR Visa Updates:

The Department of Home Affairs (DHA) regularly makes changes to visa quotas, processing times, occupation lists, and eligibility rules. Staying informed about DHA PR visa updates can improve your application success rate.

Ways to stay informed:

• Visit the official DHA website regularly
• Follow authorized migration agents or consultants
• Subscribe to migration newsletters for real-time alerts

Plan Your Move with Confidence:

Whether you’re applying for a subclass 189, 190, or 491 visa, understanding Australia’s points-based immigration system, occupation demand, and nomination pathways is key to success.

With proper planning, accurate points calculation, and up-to-date information, you can migrate to Australia permanently and enjoy the benefits of life in one of the world’s most welcoming countries.

Tips:

• Start Early: Visa processing times can range from several months to a few years, depending on the subclass.
• Stay Updated: Immigration rules and occupation lists may change frequently.
• Seek Professional Advice: Consider consulting a registered migration agent for personalized guidance.
• Organize Documentation: Prepare skills assessments, identification, education credentials, and employment records in advance.
• Budget Accordingly: Some visa categories, such as parent or investment visas, involve significant application costs.

Final Thoughts:

In 2025, obtaining Australian permanent residency remains a well-structured process for skilled professionals, businesspeople, and family members. By understanding the visa options, preparing thoroughly, and following current immigration guidelines, you can enhance your chances of a successful PR application.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, refer to the official website of the Department of Home Affairs:
https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au

Frequently Asked Questions: