Australia’s permanent residency offers a pathway to long-term stability and citizenship opportunities. Over 160,000 permanent visas were granted in 2023-24, with skilled migration accounting for 70% of these approvals.
Understanding permanent visa Australia requirements can make the difference between application success and costly delays. We at Jameson Law guide clients through this complex process daily.
Which Visa Category Fits Your Situation
Australia’s permanent visa system operates through three distinct pathways, each targeting specific applicant profiles. The Department of Home Affairs processed 185,000 permanent visa applications in 2023-24, with skilled migration representing the largest category at 132,000 places. Your circumstances determine which category matches your profile and shapes your application strategy and success probability. See the government’s visa list for context: Home Affairs visa listing.
Skilled Migration Through Points Assessment
The General Skilled Migration program uses a competitive points system where applicants need minimum 65 points to submit an Expression of Interest. Age contributes maximum 30 points for applicants aged 25-32, while English proficiency adds up to 20 points for superior scores. Work experience in your nominated occupation provides up to 20 points, and Australian qualifications offer additional advantages. Review the official EOI in SkillSelect and the points test basics.
The Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) requires no sponsorship but often needs higher point scores. State nomination through subclass 190 adds 5 points and requires initial settlement in the nominating state. Regional options like subclass 491 offer a pathway to PR after regional work and residence.
Family Reunification Options
Partner visas represent the second-largest permanent category, with 52,500 places allocated in 2023-24. The two-stage process begins with a provisional visa followed by permanent residency after two years of a genuine relationship. Parent visas face significant wait periods, with contributory parent visas costing more but processing faster than non-contributory options. Learn more or start with our partner visa guide and the government’s parent visa overview.
Child visas require proof of dependency and a genuine parent-child relationship. For parent streams, see queue and processing updates: Parent visa queue release dates.
Business Investment Pathways
Business Innovation and Investment visas target entrepreneurs and investors who contribute to Australia’s economy. Requirements differ by stream and investment level. Start with the government’s overview of business and investor visas, then speak with our team for structuring and evidence planning.
What Health and Character Checks Actually Require
Australia’s permanent visa requirements extend beyond points and sponsorship to mandatory health and character assessments. These checks apply to every applicant and included family member. See official guidance on health examinations and character requirements.
Medical Examinations Follow Strict Protocols
Applicants aged 15 and above often need chest X-rays, while older applicants may require broader medicals. Approved panel physicians conduct exams and results remain valid for 12 months. Details are on the what health examinations you need page.
Character Requirements Demand Complete Transparency
Provide police certificates for each country lived in for 12 months or more in the last 10 years. Follow the department’s instructions for police certificates. Disclose charges and convictions frankly to avoid refusals.
English Proficiency Opens Multiple Pathways
IELTS, PTE Academic and TOEFL iBT are accepted with score thresholds that align to competent, proficient and superior English. See accepted English tests. If your documents are not in English, use NAATI-certified translation.
These assessments form just one component of your application package, which requires comprehensive documentation and strategic submission through official government systems. Check current visa processing times before you lodge.
How Do You Submit Your Permanent Visa Application
Document preparation demands careful organisation to avoid delays. If your documents are in another language, arrange certified translations. For skills assessment evidence and timing, talk with our skilled migration team.
SkillSelect Operates on Invitation Rounds
The points test governs invitations for key skilled visas. You submit an Expression of Interest in SkillSelect, and if invited you usually have 60 days to lodge your application. Requirements differ by visa such as 189, 190 and 491.
Partner Portal Streamlines Family Applications
Partner visa applications are lodged online and require strong relationship evidence across the whole relationship period. Review global processing time guides and prepare documents early.
Document Certification Standards
Use appropriate certifiers and keep originals accessible for checks by skills authorities and the department. When you are ready, speak to our team for an evidence checklist and filing strategy tailored to your circumstances.
Final Thoughts
Permanent visa Australia requirements demand strategic preparation and careful timing. Successful applicants maximise points, plan health and character checks, and submit complete evidence. If you want clear, practical advice, contact our Sydney team on (02) 8806 0866 or use our contact page. We are here to help you navigate skilled migration, partner and parent pathways with confidence.
