FAQs About Migrating to Australia

Australia offers several visa types, including Skilled Migration Visas, Employer-Sponsored Visas, Family Reunion Visas, and Humanitarian Visas. The most popular pathways are the Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189), Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190), and Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (subclass 482).

Australia has a Skilled Occupation List (SOL) that outlines in-demand jobs. You can check this list through the Australian Department of Home Affairs website to see if your occupation qualifies for skilled migration.

The points-based system evaluates applicants for skilled migration based on factors like age, English proficiency, work experience, education, and whether you have a job offer or state nomination. A minimum of 65 points is usually required to apply.

Processing times vary depending on the visa type. Skilled Migration Visas typically take between 6 to 12 months, while family reunion and employer-sponsored visas may take less or more time, depending on circumstances.

Visa application fees vary based on the type of visa. For skilled migration, fees can range from AUD $4,000 to AUD $8,000. Additional costs for medical exams, police certificates, and English tests may apply.

Yes, most visa types require applicants to demonstrate English proficiency. Commonly accepted tests include IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE Academic. The required score depends on the visa category and occupation.

Yes, most visa types allow you to include immediate family members (spouse/partner and dependent children) in your application. Their eligibility will be assessed as part of your overall application.

The SOL is a list of occupations in demand in Australia, and it plays a significant role in determining eligibility for skilled migration visas. It is regularly updated by the Australian government.

No, you don’t necessarily need a job offer to migrate to Australia. Many skilled migration visas are points-based and do not require sponsorship from an employer, although having a job offer can increase your points or improve your chances for certain visas.

Permanent residency allows you to live in Australia indefinitely with access to benefits such as Medicare and social security. Temporary residency grants you limited stay rights, often tied to specific conditions like employment.

To obtain permanent residency (PR) in Australia, you typically need to apply through skilled migration, family reunion, or employer sponsorship programs. After holding PR for 1 year and living in Australia for 4 years, you may be eligible for citizenship.

Yes, permanent residents and some temporary visa holders can study in Australia. PR holders may also be eligible for reduced tuition rates or government-supported student loans.

Permanent residents and citizens have access to Medicare, Australia’s public healthcare system. Temporary visa holders usually need private health insurance, though some may qualify for limited Medicare benefits depending on reciprocal agreements with their home country.

Yes, migrants can buy property in Australia, but temporary residents need approval from the Foreign Investment Review Board (FIRB). Permanent residents can buy property without FIRB approval.

The Subclass 189 Visa is an independent skilled visa, meaning you don’t need sponsorship or nomination from an Australian state or employer. The Subclass 190 Visa is a state-nominated visa, where you must be nominated by a specific Australian state or territory government.