How To Migrate (Immigrate) To Australia: Explained

 

Australia is a beautiful country full of dreams, aspirations, and hopes. Many people choose to move to Australia for a better quality of life.

 

In addition to it, Australia has a robust economy and is very welcoming to people from worldwide. The country encourages the migration of skilled migrants. The General Skilled Migration program is a popular mode to obtain a visa to Australia.

 

People worldwide can use their work experience, language ability, and qualifications to meet the immigration requirements for a permanent Australian visa. This comprehensive guide is helpful for everyone planning to migrate or immigrate to Australia.

 

 

1. Top Reasons To Immigrate To Australia

 

Australia is one of the largest ‘emigration nations ‘(with Canada, New Zealand, and the USA). 30% of the country’s population is from overseas, with more than 200 different nationalities.

 

Australia’s migration statistics show that more than 7.5 million people have settled there since 1945.

 

Besides this, many more compelling reasons make Australia a good place for migration:

 

• It is among the strongest-performing and most stable economies worldwide

• It is a culturally-diverse country with a highly-skilled workforce 

• Australia is the 6th-largest country in terms of land area

• It is the only country to take up an entire continent in the world

• The country offers a high standard of living 

• Free healthcare and education for children

• Various jobs are available across multiple sectors, such as engineering, IT, education, service, healthcare, etc.

• Excellent Australian Education system

• Pleasant climate with a lot of sunshine

• Accommodating and friendly to immigrants

• Reasonable cost of accommodation

• Hosts several different sports events around the year

 

 

2. What Is Skilled Migration To Australia?

 

The Skilled Migration program not only benefits skilled migrants but also positively impacts the country. Those with the desired skill set, experience, and qualifications can contribute to Australia’s society.

 

The General Skilled Migration program in Australia has six different visa categories:

 

• Independent Skilled (subclass 189)

• Nominated Skilled (subclass 190)

• Recognized Graduate (subclass 476)

• Temporary Graduate (subclass 485)

• Regional Provisional (subclass 489)

• Skilled Regional (subclass 887)

 

 

3. What Are The Requirements To Migrate To Australia?

 

To migrate to Australia from any country, you must fulfil the following requirements:

 

• Be between the age group of 18 and 50 years.

• Pass a formal language test.

• Nominate a profession that is present on the skilled occupation list.

• Get a positive skills assessment in your chosen nominated skills occupation.

• Use SkillSelect to make an “Expression of Interest application”, where you will receive an invitation to apply for a visa before lodging your application.

• Complete two or more years of suitable studying in Australia, depending on the visa type.

 

 

4. Is It Easy To Find Work In Australia?

 

Being the world’s most urbanized country, Australia welcomes many ex-pats worldwide to fill vacant positions in various occupations. There are over 400,000 job vacancies in 15+ sectors in Australia.

 

If you have the required competencies that the country needs, ample work opportunities are waiting for you. Based on the government projections, industries operating in the following sectors will see tremendous growth in the coming three years:

 

• Information Technology

• Finance and Accounting

• Human Resources

• Healthcare

• Engineering

• Hospitality

• Professional and Scientific Services

• Education and Training

• Marketing & Sales

• Construction

 

According to Australia’s immigration plans for 2022-2023, there are better job opportunities for candidates under the following skill streams and categories:

 

Visa Category	2022-2023
Employer-Sponsored	30000
Skilled Independent	16652
Regional	25000
State/Territory Nominated	20000
Business Innovation & Investment	9500
Global Talent (Independent)	8448
Distinguished Talent	300

 

 

Are you looking for immigration to Australia? The below table will give you an idea of the in-demand occupations along with the average annual salaries you can expect to earn working in those occupations:

 

 

 

To find long-term employment in Australia with the possibility of immigration, you must get an Australia visa with working rights:

 

 

• Skilled Nominated visa - Subclass 190: It is a permanent visa, enabling skilled migrants to live and work in Australia.

 

• Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa - Subclass 491: This visa allows migrants to live and work in Australia for up to 5 years and provides a road to permanent residency.

 

• Business Innovation and Investment (Provisional) Visa - Subclass 188: This visa is for investor migrants and business owners. It is the first step in a 2-step pathway to permanent residency.

 

• Business Innovation and Investment (Permanent) Visa - Subclass 888: This visa is for investor migrants and business owners who hold a 4-year provisional subclass 188 visa and looking for a permanent residency.

 

• Business Talent (Permanent) Visa - Subclass 132 is a permanent residence visa for entrepreneurs and business owners wishing to do business in Australia.

 

• Significant Business History visa - Subclass 132: This visa has a Department of Home Affairs review after two years.

 

• Business Owner Visa - Subclass 892 is a permanent residence visa for business owners holding state-sponsored 163, 164, or 165 visas.

 

• Investor Visa - Subclass 893 is a permanent residence visa for investors with a South Australian state-nominated 165 visa.

 

• Investor Retirement Renewal visa - Subclass 405: It is a 4-year temporary visa for those who plan to retire in South Australia.

 

 

Employer-Sponsored Visas Pathways For Local Businesses:

 

• Designated Area Migration Agreement: The visa enables businesses to nominate skilled migrants for employment who meet the criteria of state-level Designated Area Migration Agreements.

 

• Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) visa

 

 

5. What Is The Easiest Way To Migrate To Australia?

 

You only need to choose the Australian visa that best suits your purpose and follow a few steps to apply.

 

 

Step 1: Choose The Australian Visa

 

According to the Australian government, you need the following Australian visas to enter the country. 

 

• Visitor Visa: It is for a short period, ranging from 1 to 12 months.

 

• Sub-class 771 Transit Visa: This Visa is valid for only 72 hours.

 

• Sub-Class 602 Medical Treatment Visa: This visa is for those who want to get medical treatments/consultations or donate their organs in Australia.

 

• Sub-Class 417 Working Holiday Visa: This visa is for people between 18 and 30 years who want to work for a maximum period of 12 months and travel to Australia.

 

• Sub-Class 462 Work and Holiday Visa: This visa is valid for 12 months. It is for people travelling from The US, China, Turkey, Poland, Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Portugal, Malaysia, Bangladesh, Slovakia, Slovenia, Thailand, and Uruguay.

 

• Sub-Class 500 Student Visa: Students who want to pursue full-time study in recognized Australian Educational Institutions should apply for this visa.

 

• PR Visa: This visa is for those who want to become permanent residents of Australia and understand the country's specific laws and policies. You will get rights to work and live there, including Medicare benefits.

 

• Sub-class 155, 157 Resident Return Visa: People who have this visa can re-enter Australia as a PR multiple times before the expiry date of their visa. The validity period of this visa is between 3 months to 5 years.

 

 

Step 2: Apply For The Australian Visa 

 

Follow the below steps to apply for your chosen visa:

 

• Apply for the Australian e-visa online. The form contains basic questions, such as your financial status, identity, travel history, the purpose for visiting Australia, health information, and employment details. 

• Once you fill out the form, you must submit it along with the supporting documents. Upload all the necessary documents, including documented evidence related to work, travel history, DOB proof, education, and financial capability.

• After uploading the documents, you must pay the Australian e-visa fee online. You may need to pay an additional surcharge in case of credit card payments.

• After making the payment, click Submit, and you will receive an acknowledgement of the application receipt.

• Once you have done this part, wait for some time for the status of your visa application. You will get an answer about whether the visa is approved or rejected. Immigration to Australia through a Permanent Resident Visa takes around 5 to 12 months, based on individual circumstances. 

• Once you receive a Visa grant notice, confirm all the details, such as entry frequency, tenure, travel facility, and other important information.

 

 

6. How To Apply For A PR Visa In Australia?

 

Do you want to know how to migrate to Australia and obtain a PR visa? Follow the below steps:

 

Step 1: Check if you meet the eligibility requirements. Verify whether your occupation is on the in-demand occupations list and if you have the required points (based on the points table).

 

Step 2: Take English proficiency tests like IELTS, PTE, TOEFL, etc., to check whether or not you have the required proficiency in the English language 

 

Step 3: Take a skill assessment at the Skills assessment authority. With this test, the organization evaluates the visa applicant's skills, qualifications, and work experience based on Australian standards.

 

Step 4: Register your Expression of Interest on Australia's Skill Select website. The SkillSelect program offers three visa categories to apply for a PR visa.

 

• Skilled Independent Visa Subclass 189 (Permanent Visa)

• Skilled Nominated Visa 190 (Permanent Visa)

• Skilled regional (provisional) Subclass 491 (Temporary visa with a validity of 5 years that can later transform into a PR visa)

 

Step 5: After you apply, the concerned authority will assess it. You will receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for Australian PR if successful.

 

Step 6: Submit your PR application with all the supporting documents (personal documents, work experience, and immigration documents within 60 days to process your PR visa. 

 

Step 7: Obtain a police clearance certificate and submit it with your medical certificate.

 

Step 8: Once you have completed all the above steps, you can get your PR visa within a few weeks.

 

 

7. How Much Does Migrate To Australia Cost?

 

Refer to the below table to find out how much money you should save before moving to Australia:

 

 

 

8. How Can You Emigrate To Australia Over 45?

 

Most Australian visas are only for those who are below 45 years. In this article, we will provide options available for those above the age of 45, especially if their objective for migration is business or investment related.

 

Visa Options available for Migrants Aged 45 Years and more:

 

 

Parent Visa

 

45-year-olds can apply for a parent visa subclass if any of their family members is an Australian citizen, permanent resident, and is presently residing in the country. The Parent visa has the below sub-categories:

 

• Parent Visa – Subclass 103 – Permanent

• Contributory Parent Visa – Subclass 143 – Permanent

• Contributory Parent visa – Subclass 173 – Temporary

• Aged Parent Visa – Subclass 804 – Permanent

• Aged Dependent Relative Visa – Subclass 114 – Offshore

• Aged Dependent Relative Visa - Subclass 838 – Onshore

• Contributory Aged Parent Visa – Subclass 864 – Permanent

• Sponsored Parent Visa – subclass 870 – Temporary

• Contributory Aged Parent Visa – Subclass 884 – Temporary

 

 

Partner Visa

 

It is another visa that 45+-year-olds can apply for if they are in a genuine and continuing relationship with an Australian citizen or permanent resident.

 

 

Distinguished Talent (Subclass 858) Visa

 

People between 18 and 55 years of age are eligible for this visa. It is for those with an internally recognized record of outstanding achievement in a sport, profession, arts, academia and research.

 

 

Temporary Skill Shortage (Subclass 482) Visa

 

Skilled workers keen to work in Australian sectors experiencing a skills shortage and nominated by an Australian business sponsor can apply for this visa.

 

 

Business Innovation and Investment (Provisional) (subclass 188) Visa

 

Suppose you are below 55 years and wish to own and manage an Australian business or conduct investment or business activity. In that case, you can apply for this visa.

 

 

9. How To Emigrate To Australia Over 60?

 

If you are an eligible New Zealand citizen or a permanent Australian resident aged 60 and over, you can apply for Australian Citizenship without requiring you to pass the Citizenship test. However, you should fulfil the following requirements: 

 

• You have a close and continuing link to Australia.

• You will be available in Australia at the time of the declaration of the decision by the Immigration Department.

• You haven’t been away from Australia for over 12 months in the last four years.

• You haven’t been away from Australia for over 90 days in the last 12 months.

• You have good knowledge of the country and its history.

• You intend to live in Australia for an indefinite period. 

• Must be of good character and pass the Australian government’s character requirements, including no history of domestic violence and criminal convictions.

• Must not provide misleading or false information about previous visa or citizenship applications. 

 

If you meet the above conditions, you can apply for Australian Citizenship.

 

 

10. How To Migrate To Australia From Any Country In The World?

 

To remain in Australia for an infinite time, you must acquire a permanent visa for Australia. Skilled work visas, under General Skilled Migration, and Family visas are the two most sought-after permanent visas in Australia.

 

Being an Australian permanent resident, you are free to work and study in the country for an indefinite period. Permanent residents of Australia can enrol in Medicare and even sponsor their eligible relatives for permanent residence.

 

Furthermore, Australian permanent residents can work in New Zealand without requiring a work visa. You get a 5-years travel facility allowing you to travel in and out of Australia unlimited until the travel facility expires, provided your visa remains valid.

 

 

Australian Immigration Pathways:

 

• Australia Skilled Migration

• Employer Nominated Migration

• Business Migration

• Australian Permanent Residence Pathways for Australia PR Visa

• Family Stream Permanent Residence

• Work Stream Permanent Residence

• Investment stream Permanent Residence

 

 

Eligibility Criteria For Australian Immigration:

 

All those who apply for a visa have to pass a point-based test. This test helps the country to choose the best candidates based on the skillset and attributes required.

 

The number of points needed depends upon the specific visa you are applying for. The points are assigned based on the following attributes such as:

 

• Skills

• Age

• Occupation

• Australian work experience

• Adaptability

• English language ability

• Australian qualifications

 

You need a minimum score of 65 points to get an Australian work visa. Applicants with a score between 80-85 have a higher chance of Australian immigration with a Permanent Resident visa.

 

 

General-Skilled-Migration Visa Requirements:

 

• Points: A minimum score of 65 

• Age: Below 45 years

• English proficiency: IELTS or PTE Score 

• Skills Assessment: Skill assessment must be certified by authorities in Australia

• Occupation: The occupation must be on the Priority Migration Skilled Occupation List or Skilled Occupation List of Australia

 

 

11. How Many Years Do You Have To Live In Australia To Be A Citizen?

 

When applying for Australian Citizenship, you must ensure that you have lived in Australia for three consecutive years out of 5 years. 

 

If you meet this condition, you can apply for Australian Citizenship under the conferral category.

 

 

12. Can You Migrate To Australia Without A Job?

 

• Yes. The Australian government offers several visa options based on the eligibility criteria that permit you to migrate to Australia without a job. For this, you will need to fulfil the following conditions:

• You should be below 45 years old.

• Must be of good character and health

• You should have the skills for an occupation in demand (Refer to the below list)

 

You must score 65 points on the Immigration points test.

 

 

 

13. What Is The Best Place To Live In Australia?

 

Deciding where you will live when migrating to a new country is essential. It can impact how relaxed you feel in your new surroundings and how successful your immigration is. 

 

Keeping this in mind, we have listed the best places to live in Australia below:

 

 

BYRON BAY

 

Average Living Cost: $3365/ month

 

Average Cost of Rent: $2196/month

 

 

Pros

 

• Healthy Lifestyle

• Relaxed Atmosphere

• Captivating natural landscape

 

 

Cons

 

• Small town

• The hippie feel may not be welcoming to everyone

• Highly expensive

 

 

Places of Attraction: Cape Byron Lighthouse, Lighthouse Trail, The Farm, 

Wategos Beach, Tallow Beach, Belongil Beach, and more.

 

 

SYDNEY

 

Average Living Cost: $2675/month

 

Average Cost of Rent: $1634/month

 

 

Pros

 

• Great food 

• City living

• Plenty of things to indulge in

• Home to the top Universities and educational institutions

 

 

Cons

 

• Terrible Traffic

• Fast-paced life

• Super Expensive

 

 

Places of Attraction: Sydney Opera House, Bondi Beach, Taronga Zoo, Manly Beach, Australian Museum, Captain Cook Cruises, and more.

 

 

HOBART

 

Average Living Cost: $1654/month

 

Average Cost of Rent: $887/month

 

 

Pros

 

• Ideal place for a gateway to the natural wonders

• A relaxed, friendly suburb

• A scenic place to live

 

 

Cons

 

• Extreme weather conditions

• A little isolated

• Not that dynamic

 

 

Places of Attraction: Salamanca Market, Mount Wellington, Mona Ferry, Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery, and Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens.

 

 

PERTH

 

Average Living Cost: $1765/month

 

Average Cost of Rent: $2689/month

 

 

Pros

 

• Laid-back coastal city

• Easy access to picturesque places - white sand beaches and historical architecture

• Open and pleasant atmosphere

• Plenty to explore

 

 

Cons

 

• May get boring

• One of the most isolated cities

• Bit expensive

 

 

Places of Attraction: Swan River, Kings Park, Botanical Gardens, Perth Mint, Bell Tower, State War Memorial, Elizabeth Quay, and more.

 

 

MELBOURNE

 

Average Living Cost: $2234/month

 

Average Cost of Rent: $693/month

 

 

Pro

 

• Cited as one of the most liveable cities in the world

• Multicultural Urban Landscape

• Home to several students

• Great Wi-Fi and cheap Eats

• A lot of Street Art

• Cultural, Art, and Music festivals (Writers Festival, Film Festival, International Jazz Festival, etc.)

• Amazing food scenes (high-end dining, vegetarian, late-night snacks, coffee shops)

 

 

Cons

 

• Expensive Cost of living

• Temperamental weather

 

 

Places of Attraction: Melbourne Museum, Melbourne Cricket Ground, Royal Botanic Gardens, Victoria, Melbourne Zoo, City Circle Tram, and more. 

 

 

WOLLONGONG

 

Average Living Cost: $1843/month

 

Average Cost of Rent: $884/month

 

 

Pro

 

• Loads of eateries and delectable food

• Fun nightlife

• An exemplary range of museums

 

 

Cons

 

• Relatively more expensive than the remaining areas of Australia

• High pollution rate

• The crime rate is high in some areas 

 

 

Places of Attraction: Wollongong City Gallery, Nan Tien Temple, Grand Pacific Drive, Wattamolla Beach, Wollongong Head Lighthouse, Science Space, and more.

 

 

BRISBANE

 

Average Living Cost: $2129/month 

 

Average Cost of Rent: $1068/month 

 

 

Pros

 

• Several places to find fresh and organic produce (Botanic Gardens, weekends farmers' markets)

• Affordable rent

• Plenty of beautiful beaches closeby

• Warmer weather

 

 

Cons

 

• High humidity levels in the summer months

• Nightlife is not as great as in other cities

• No daylight savings

 

 

Places of Attraction: Historic Windmill, South Bank's Sandy beach, Brisbane River, Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, South Bank Parklands, Mount Coot-Tha, City Cat, Brisbane Botanic Gardens, and more. 

 

 

GOLD COAST

 

Average Living Cost: $1863/month

 

Average Cost of Rent: $1065/month 

 

 

Pros

 

• Scintillating beaches

• A perfect place for partying and celebrations

• Tons of outdoor activities for every age group

 

 

Cons

 

• Expensive

• Busy with visitors

• Maybe too much happening place for some

 

 

Places of Attraction: Tamborine Mountain, Surfers Paradise Beach, Pacific Fair Shopping Center, Point Danger, Currumbin beach, Kirra Beach, Sea World, Warners Bros. Movie World, and more. 

 

 

ADELAIDE

 

Average Living Cost: $1714/month

 

Average Cost of Rent: $1064/month

 

 

Pros

 

• Cultural and cosmopolitan

• With the sheer number of churches, the city is popularly called the "City of Churches".

• Ideal for cheap eats and drinks, hipster hang-outs, and vintage shops

• Ideal for those who admire the old architecture 

• Friendly people

• Interesting place

 

 

Cons

 

• Not lively and convenient as other cities

• People with a conservative mindset

 

 

Places of Attraction: Art Gallery of South Australia, Victoria Square, Adelaide Oval cricket stadium, Adelaide Central Market, and more

 

 

14. Conclusion

 

Australia is a popular choice for immigration due to its high quality of life, thriving economy, and multicultural population. It is already home to a million ex-pats from all parts of the world.

 

Now that you understand the migration process follow the above steps and plan your move to Australia. If you have any difficulties, you can take the assistance of a Migration Agent to understand all available visa options and their requirements.

 

Useful Links to Explore:

• English Language Requirements for Australia
• Cultural differences you may experience in Australia
• How to find Part-Time work as a Student in Australia
• Seven Tips for Students on a Budget in Australia
• How to get a Scholarship to Study in Australia
• Driving in Australia as an International Student
• How to change your Course or Institute in Australia
• The Benefits of a Professional Year Program (PYP)
• A Complete Guide to Study in Australia
• Types of Education in Australia 
• What to Study in Australia?