Australia offers a high standard of living, world-class infrastructure, and abundant career opportunities for skilled professionals. With permanent residency (PR), you can enjoy nearly all the rights of an Australian citizen, making it an ideal pathway for those looking to settle long-term.
Australian Permanent Residency (PR) is a visa status that allows foreign nationals to live, work, and study in Australia indefinitely. PR holders enjoy most of the benefits that Australian citizens do, including access to healthcare, education, and social security (after a qualifying period). It also serves as a pathway to Australian citizenship after fulfilling residency requirements.
Here are some Do’s and Don’ts for an Australian PR Visa:
| Do’s | Don’ts |
| Maintain valid residency and meet stay rules | Do not overstay or breach visa conditions |
| File taxes and declare global income | Avoid giving false information on applications |
| Keep your documents updated and accurate | Don’t ignore PR renewal or citizenship eligibility |
| Apply for Medicare and other entitlements | Don’t assume PR is the same as citizenship |
| Follow immigration and employment laws | Avoid relying on unverified or unofficial advice |
*Want to apply for Australian PR? Sign up with Y-Axis to guide you with the process.
Australian Permanent Residency grants non‑citizens indefinite rights to live, work, and study in Australia. PR holders access Medicare, can sponsor eligible relatives, and may apply for citizenship once criteria are met. Note, voting rights and passports are reserved for citizens.
Yes, UK residents can become Permanent Residents (PR) of Australia by applying through various visa pathways such as the Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189), Employer-Sponsored Visas, or through family and partner sponsorships. Australia’s PR process is points-based and considers factors such as age, education, work experience, English proficiency, and occupation demand.
Many skilled professionals from the UK are eligible under the General Skilled Migration (GSM) program, especially if their occupation is listed on Australia's Skilled Occupation List (SOL). Once granted, a PR visa allows UK residents to live, work, and access services in Australia indefinitely and eventually apply for Australian citizenship after meeting residency requirements.
While both Australian Permanent Residency (PR) and Citizenship offer the right to live and work in Australia, there are key differences in terms of rights, responsibilities, and benefits. Here's a comparison across major factors:
| Factor | Australian PR | Australian Citizenship |
| Right to Live and Work | Indefinite stay with full work rights | Full rights and protections as a citizen |
| Voting Rights | Not allowed | Allowed in all local, state, and federal elections |
| Australian Passport | Not eligible | Eligible for an Australian passport |
| Government Jobs | Limited eligibility | Eligible for all government roles |
| Political Participation | Cannot run for office | Can vote and stand for election |
| Consular Assistance | Limited overseas assistance | Full consular support while abroad |
| Healthcare (Medicare) | Full access | Full access |
| Citizenship for Children | Children born are not automatically citizens | Children born are automatically citizens |
| Travel Flexibility | Requires valid travel facility on PR visa | Unrestricted travel with Australian passport |
| Deportation Risk | Can be revoked for criminal activity | Protected unless citizenship is revoked |
The Australian Permanent Residency (PR) process involves a structured pathway for skilled individuals and families aiming to live and work in Australia permanently. It includes assessment, invitation, and visa application stages.
The 3 Stages in the Australia PR Process:
Submit your skills for assessment through a recognized assessing authority based on your nominated occupation.
Step 2: Expression of Interest (EOI) & Invitation
Create and submit an EOI via SkillSelect. High-ranking candidates receive an invitation to apply for PR.
Step 3: Visa Application & Grant
Apply for the visa within 60 days of invitation. Submit documents, undergo health checks, and wait for the final PR grant.
The Subclass 189 Visa is a points-tested permanent residency visa for skilled workers who are not sponsored by an employer, state, or territory. It allows individuals to live and work anywhere in Australia permanently. To be eligible, applicants must submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect and receive an invitation to apply. This visa is ideal for high-demand professionals with skills listed on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL).
The Subclass 190 Visa is a state-nominated permanent residency visa for skilled workers with occupations in demand in specific Australian states or territories. Applicants must first receive a nomination from a state or territory government and meet the eligibility criteria, including a minimum points threshold. This visa provides permanent residency and requires the holder to live and work in the nominating state for at least two years after arrival.
To be eligible for Permanent Residency (PR) in Australia, applicants must meet specific criteria set by the Department of Home Affairs. These requirements ensure that individuals contribute positively to the Australian economy and society. The eligibility is based on a points-tested system that factors in age, skills, language proficiency, and more. Meeting all criteria enhances your chances of receiving an invitation to apply for PR.
.webp)
*Check your eligibility to become a Permanent Resident of Australia with the FREE Y-Axis Australia immigration Points Calculator and get an instant score!
To apply for Permanent Residency (PR) in Australia, candidates must satisfy a range of criteria outlined by the Department of Home Affairs. These requirements ensure that migrants possess the necessary skills, qualifications, and adaptability to contribute effectively to the country’s economy and society.
The table below has an overview of the eligibility factors for Australia PR:
| Category | Maximum Points |
| Age (25-32 years) | 30 points |
| English proficiency (8 bands) | 20 points |
| Work Experience outside Australia (8-10 years) | 15 points |
| Work Experience in Australia (8-10 years) | 20 points |
| Education (outside Australia) – Doctorate degree | 20 points |
| Niche skills such as Doctorate or master’s degree by research in Australia | 10 points |
| Study in a regional area | 5 points |
| Accredited in community language | 5 points |
| Professional year in a skilled program in Australia | 5 points |
| State sponsorship (190 visa) | 5 points |
| Skilled spouse or de facto partner (Age, Skills & English language requirements to be met) | 10 points |
| Spouse or de facto partner with ‘competent English’ (No need to meet Skills requirement or age factor) | 5 points |
| Applicants without a spouse or de facto partner or where a spouse is an Australian citizen or PR holder | 10 points |
| Relative or regional sponsorship (491 visa) | 15 points |
Applicants must meet:
Securing Permanent Residency (PR) in Australia involves a structured process through skilled migration or other eligible visa categories. Below are the general steps to apply for Australian PR:
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
Ensure you meet the basic eligibility criteria including age, occupation, English language proficiency, and points requirement (minimum 65 points).
Step 2: Get Your Skills Assessed
Apply for a skills assessment through the designated assessing authority for your nominated occupation. A positive assessment is essential for most PR visas.
Step 3: Take an English Language Test
Take a recognized test like IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL and meet the required score to demonstrate competent English proficiency.
Step 4: Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)
Lodge an EOI through SkillSelect, indicating your interest in a PR visa. You will need to enter details like qualifications, work experience, and language scores.
Step 5: Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA)
If your EOI is competitive, you will receive an ITA to apply for PR. Invitations are issued based on your points and occupation demand.
Step 6: Lodge Your Visa Application
Submit your visa application with all supporting documents including identity, education, employment proof, and health and character clearances.
Step 7: Wait for a Decision
The Department of Home Affairs will assess your application. Processing times vary depending on the visa subclass and individual circumstances.
Step 8: Get Your PR Visa
Once approved, you will receive your PR grant letter. You can now live, work, and study in Australia permanently.
The Australia Skill Assessment is a mandatory step for skilled migration applicants seeking permanent residency. It evaluates whether your education, qualifications, and work experience match Australian standards for your nominated occupation. Each occupation is assessed by a designated authority (like ACS, Engineers Australia, VETASSESS, etc.), and the process must be completed before lodging your visa application. A positive skill assessment boosts your chances of receiving an invitation to apply through SkillSelect and is valid for up to 3 years in most cases.
Australia PR offers long-term settlement, work, and social benefits, making it a highly sought-after immigration pathway.
Australia also offers PR via Partner/Family visas and Caregiver pilot programs. These cater to individuals with eligible Australian citizen or PR sponsors, or care work experience. Each pathway has unique conditions, such as relationship proof, health, and character standards.
Jobs in Australia for UK residents are abundant, especially for skilled professionals in sectors like healthcare, engineering, IT, construction, and education. With both countries sharing strong economic ties and English as the primary language, UK nationals often find it easier to transition into the Australian workforce. Australia’s SkillSelect program and General Skilled Migration (GSM) visa pathways offer UK professionals a streamlined route to work and settle permanently. Competitive salaries, excellent work-life balance, and high demand for skilled talent make Australia a top destination for UK job seekers.
| Occupation | Annual salary in AUD |
| IT | $81,000 – $149,023 |
| Marketing & Sales | $70,879 – $165,000 |
| Engineering | $87,392 – $180,000 |
| Hospitality | $58,500 – $114,356 |
| Healthcare | $73,219 – $160,000 |
| Accounting & Finance | $89,295 – $162,651 |
| Human Resources | $82,559 – $130,925 |
| Teaching | $75,284 – $160,000 |
| Professional and Scientific Services | $90,569 – $108,544 |
Australia’s thriving digital economy is driving strong demand for IT professionals across sectors like software development, cybersecurity, data science, and cloud computing. With tech hubs in cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, the country offers lucrative opportunities, competitive salaries, and long-term career growth for skilled tech workers.
| IT Job Title | Average Annual Salary (AUD) |
| Software Developer | 1,00,000 |
| Data Scientist | 1,15,000 |
| Cloud Solutions Architect | 1,35,000 |
| Cybersecurity Specialist | 1,25,000 |
| DevOps Engineer | 1,20,000 |
| IT Project Manager | 1,30,000 |
| Full Stack Developer | 1,10,000 |
| Network Engineer | 1,05,000 |
| Business Intelligence Analyst | 1,10,000 |
| Machine Learning Engineer | 1,25,000 |
The total cost of applying for Australian Permanent Residency (PR) depends on the visa subclass, number of dependents, and additional services like English tests, skill assessments, and health checks. For a primary applicant, the base application fee starts from AUD 4,640, with added charges for a spouse and children. Applicants should also budget for other mandatory expenses such as language exams, biometrics, medicals, and police clearances.
Overall, the complete cost for a single applicant typically ranges between AUD 6,000 to AUD 8,000, while for families, it can go up to AUD 10,000–12,000, depending on the size and visa requirements.
The table below has a complete breakdown of the total cost for Australia PR:
| Fee Type | Estimated Amount (AUD) |
| Visa application fee (189/190) | ~AUD 4,630 |
| Visa application fee (491) | ~AUD 4,045 |
| Skills assessment/test fees | AUD 300–700 |
| Health & police checks | Variable depending on provider and jurisdiction |
The processing time for an Australia Permanent Residency (PR) visa varies depending on the visa subclass, applicant profile, and documentation. As per the Australian Department of Home Affairs, the general processing times are:
Note: These timelines are only indicative and may vary based on application volume, completeness of documents, health and character checks, and verification procedures. To ensure faster processing, applicants should submit a complete and accurate application, along with all required supporting evidence.
To renew your travel facility validity:
Several elements can influence how quickly your Australia PR visa is processed.
Applying for an Australian PR visa can be a smooth and timely process if approached with care and preparation. Ensuring your application is accurate, complete, and well-documented can significantly improve your chances of faster processing. Here are some essential tips to help avoid delays:
Permanent residents enjoy indefinite stay rights in Australia but need a Resident Return Visa (RRV) (Subclass 155 for up to 5 years, or Subclass 157 for 3 months) to return to Australia after travel if the travel facility on their PR visa has expired. Subclass 155 requires at least 2 years (730 days) residency in the last 5 years—or substantial ties to Australia, to be eligible for the full travel validity.
Y-Axis, the leading overseas immigration consultancy in the UK, provides unbiased immigration services for every client based on their interests and requirements. The impeccable services of Y-Axis include:
Explore what Global Citizens have to say about Y-Axis in shaping their future
Australia PR Visa
One of our client Varun Mathur has opted
Read More...
Australia PR Visa
Uday Seshadri giving feedback after rece
Read More...
Australia PR Visa
Y-Axis received a great feedback from Su
Read More...
The cost of applying for Australian Permanent Residency varies depending on the visa subclass and the number of applicants. For a primary applicant under the General Skilled Migration (GSM) program, the visa fee is approximately AUD 4,640. For a spouse or partner, it is around AUD 2,320, and for each dependent child, it’s AUD 1,160. Additional expenses may include health checks, police certificates, English language tests, and skill assessments.
Yes, 75 points is a competitive score for Australia’s Skilled Migration program. It increases your chances of receiving an invitation to apply for visas like Subclass 189 (Skilled Independent) or Subclass 190 (State Nominated), especially for occupations in high demand.
In 2023, Australia has set different plans for its immigrants. The country has announced more pathways for TR to PR. The country plans to welcome 2.5 lakh professionals. Australia is facing a huge backlog of skilled professionals. It has 800,000 job openings in various sectors. The Aussie government has also eased immigration policies. Hence, it is an excellent chance to grab the opportunity to get Australia PR in 2023.
Yes, UK residents can apply for Australian PR if they meet the eligibility criteria under programs like Skilled Independent (Subclass 189), State Nominated (Subclass 190), or the Global Talent visa. Having relevant work experience and qualifications aligned with Australia's skill needs is key.
To get a PR visa, follow these steps:
Step 1: Check your occupation on the Skilled Occupation List.
Step 2: Get your skills assessed by an approved body.
Step 3: Take an English proficiency test (e.g., IELTS).
Step 4: Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) via SkillSelect.
Step 5: Receive an invitation and apply for the visa.
The overall cost can range from AUD 7,000 to AUD 11,000, depending on family members, visa subclass, and other factors such as skill assessment, English tests, medical exams, and documentation.
Basic PR visa requirements are 65 points in the Points grid and have proof of having sufficient settlement funds for you and your family to sustain in Australia.
Other requirements are:
For skilled workers, the easiest route is often the General Skilled Migration pathway via Subclass 189 or Subclass 190, especially if you have a high score, in-demand occupation, and good English proficiency.
English language proficiency is required. Commonly accepted exams include IELTS (International English Language Testing System), PTE Academic, TOEFL iBT, and Cambridge English (CAE). IELTS is the most widely accepted.
It is considered streamlined because it is point-based, and applicants can apply independently without employer sponsorship. If your profile meets all the criteria—especially in-demand occupation and high English proficiency—your chances improve significantly.
You can apply for the Subclass 891 Investor Visa if you want to become a permanent resident of Australia. You must invest AUD 1.5 million and have lived in Australia for at least two of the previous four years to qualify for this visa.
An interview is an attempt to gain a better understanding of the reason for your migration. The interview will also assist authorities in determining whether your migration plans are legitimate. They ensure that you meet the migration standards. They will also ensure that you will be able to live independently in the country to which you are migrating.
If I have permanent residency, who all of my family members can I bring with me when I migrate?
Many nations allow wives and children to be included in the main applicant’s permanent residency application.
Parents of the main applicant may be permitted in some nations. Many countries allow permanent residents to sponsor family members who are eligible to move.
Is it legal for me to study or work in the new country once I’ve been granted permanent residency?
Some types of permanent residency restrict the applicant’s ability to work in the new nation. For the first two to three years, the holder of these licenses will be required to reside and study in a specific state or region.
Most countries, on the other hand, grant permanent residency, which allows an applicant to work or study in any part of the country.
Costs may include:
What are the age limits for applying for Australian PR?
It can be competitive, but not impossible. If you meet all eligibility requirements, have an in-demand occupation, and a good score on the points test, your chances are strong. The process requires careful planning and documentation.
Courses that align with the Skilled Occupation List improve your chances. These include IT, engineering, nursing, social work, accounting, and trade qualifications. Studying in Australia in these fields can also lead to graduate visas.
IELTS, or the International English Language Testing System, is a test that many people take when they want to move to Australia permanently. The Australian government uses IELTS score to measure someone’s ability to speak and understand English. IELTS is accepted by most universities in Australia as well. If you want to get a high score on the IELTS test, there are some things you can do to prepare yourself and make sure you understand the material.
IELTS is an academic and general training test has all four skills: listening, reading, writing and speaking. Academic IELTS is for those who want to study at university or join a professional organization in an English-speaking country.
Most universities in Australia accept IELTS as a method of testing someone’s English language capabilities. If an applicant has completed their secondary schooling or tertiary education in an English-speaking country, they may not need to provide an IELTS score. Work experience can also be used as evidence of English proficiency.
IELTS has few critical components in the system. The minimum score of 6 in each area (Speaking, Listening, Reading, and Writing) is required. If you get higher score will gain you more points!
Points Table for IELTS Score
| IELTS Score | Points |
| Score 6.0 or more | 0 |
| Score 7.0 or more | 10 |
| Score 8.0 or more | 20 |
The minimum required points are 65, but higher scores significantly improve your chances. Invitations are generally extended to those with 75 or more points depending on occupation and competition.
A permanent resident can stay outside Australia for up to 5 years without losing their PR status. After this period, you will need a Resident Return Visa (RRV) to re-enter the country as a PR.
Step 1: Choose the right PR visa stream (e.g., Subclass 189, 190, 491, 186, or 187).
Step 2: Check if your occupation is listed on the relevant Skilled Occupation List.
Step 3: Complete a skills assessment through the designated assessing authority for your occupation.
Step 4: Take an approved English language test (e.g., IELTS, PTE) and meet the required score.
Step 5: Calculate your points and ensure you meet the minimum 65-point threshold.
Step 6: Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) via SkillSelect.
Step 7: Wait to receive an invitation to apply (ITA) from the Department of Home Affairs.
Step 8: Lodge your PR application online with all required documents and pay the visa fee.
Step 9: Complete biometrics, health checks, and police clearances.
Step 10: Await a decision from the Department of Home Affairs and receive your PR grant if approved.
The 65-point test is the minimum score threshold required to be eligible for many skilled visa pathways (Subclass 189/190/491). Points are awarded based on age, English proficiency, work experience, qualification level, regional study or work, and special professional credentials. Reaching 65 points qualifies you to lodge an Expression of Interest; however, most successful applicants score well above 80 to receive an invitation due to high competition.
Choose a subclass based on your profile and goals:
Yes. You must demonstrate English proficiency via tests like IELTS General Training, PTE Academic, TOEFL iBT, or others specified by the Department of Home Affairs. Achieving Competent English (e.g., IELTS 6.0 in each band, PTE 50) earns baseline points; Proficient or Superior English (e.g., IELTS 7.0 or 8.0) can significantly boost your PR application score.
Processing times vary by visa stream and applicant circumstances. Typically, Subclass 189 and 190 processing takes around 8–12 months for 75% of applicants. Employer or regional‑sponsored visas may take 12–18+ months. Factors affecting timing include completeness of documentation, skill‑assessment delays, medical checks, and case complexity.
Yes, Australia’s Department of Home Affairs (DHA) website features a comprehensive Visa Finder tool to compare eligibility, costs, and timelines. Independent comparison charts are available showing major differences between Subclasses 189, 190, 491 and employer-sponsored 186/187, including nomination requirements, work and living conditions, and points thresholds.
Firstly, check if your occupation appears on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL) and complete your skills assessment. Then estimate your points based on age, English proficiency, qualifications, and experience. Use the SkillSelect point calculator to determine eligibility for 189, 190, or 491, and research state-nominated pathways aligned with your occupation and location preferences.
The Department of Home Affairs provides detailed visa pages for Subclass 491 (Skilled Work Regional – Provisional) and Subclasses 494 & 191 for regional skilled workers. These pages explain eligibility, state sponsor options, and quotas. Additionally, individual state/territory websites detail regional lists, occupation demand, and sponsorship conditions.
Visa application fees vary:
Look for a registered Migration Agent listed on the Office of the Migration Agents Registration Authority (OMARA) website. Ensure the agent has a valid registration number and check reviews or testimonials. You may also work with licensed immigration firms or consultants accredited under Australian law. Online directories and government-authored lists help you find qualified and trustworthy assistance.
Ideal for high-scoring skilled workers without the need for sponsorship or nomination.
Suitable for applicants nominated by an Australian state or territory.
A regional pathway that leads to PR after three years of living and working in a designated regional area.
For skilled workers with a job offer from an Australian employer.
Employer-sponsored visa for regional positions (now replaced by 494/191 pathways in some cases).
Designed for entrepreneurs and investors who want to establish or manage a business in Australia.
Official guidance and forms are available on the Department of Home Affairs website. You may also consult a Registered Migration Agent (via OMARA), or use reputable visa services such as ACS, CPA Australia or Y-Axis Australia, which offer document preparation, skill assessment, and lodging support. Always verify credentials and review service terms before proceeding.
For comprehensive and reliable support with your Australian PR application, Y-Axis is a trusted and globally recognized immigration consultancy. Y-Axis offers end-to-end assistance including eligibility assessment, document preparation, Expression of Interest (EOI) filing, and application submission. With experienced case managers, personalized guidance, and dedicated support for skilled, family, and business visa streams, Y-Axis helps you navigate Australia’s complex immigration system with confidence and clarity.
To apply for Australian PR, you generally need:
If you are an Australian permanent resident living in the UK, you must apply for a Resident Return Visa (RRV) to maintain your status. To renew, you typically need to show:
To secure trustworthy and lawful immigration assistance, it is essential to work with a registered migration agent. Y-Axis Services has a global presence, including support for clients in the UK, and partners with MARA-registered Australian migration agents to provide accurate and compliant advice. You can:
Y-Axis ensures your application meets Australian Department of Home Affairs requirements while providing localised support in the UK, bridging time zones and regulatory frameworks. Always confirm the MARA registration number before proceeding, as only registered agents can legally offer paid Australian immigration services.
