Australia’s allure as a land of opportunity, cultural diversity, and stunning landscapes has made it a sought-after destination for individuals and families seeking a new home. One of the pathways to making this dream a reality is obtaining Australian Permanent Residency (PR). However, the journey toward achieving PR status is a structured process that involves careful planning, adherence to eligibility criteria, and meticulous document preparation.
In this guide, we’ll take you through the essential steps involved in securing Australian Permanent Residency, shedding light on the critical aspects of visa categories, eligibility assessment, skills evaluation, language proficiency requirements, document gathering, and the pivotal Invitation to Apply (ITA) stage. By understanding these steps and their nuances, you’ll be better equipped to navigate the intricacies of the Australian PR process and take confident strides toward a new chapter in the Land Down Under.
Obtaining a Permanent Residency (PR) in Australia involves a series of steps. Here is a general overview of the Australia PR process:
- Selecting the Suitable Visa Category – There are visa categories for Australian permanent residency, such as skilled migration, family sponsorship, and business and investment visas. Each category has its requirements and eligibility criteria.
- Assessing Eligibility – Before applying for PR it is crucial to determine if you meet the requirements of your chosen visa category. Factors like age, English proficiency, profession, work experience, qualifications as a character, and health standards may all play a role in determining eligibility.
- Age Requirement – Applicants must be under 45 when they receive an invitation to apply for a visa. Even if you turn 45 after receiving the invitation you can still submit your application. However, you won’t qualify for one if you turn 45 before receiving an invitation.
- Points Threshold – The PR application process employs a points-based system where applicants earn points based on their Expression of Interest (EOI) submitted through the SkillSelect platform. You must accumulate 65 points to be eligible, for an invitation.The points required for your application assessment will be specified in your invitation, based on the information provided in your Expression of Interest (EOI). The required points may exceed the 65 points mentioned.
- English Language Proficiency – At the time of invitation, you’re required to demonstrate at least a competent level of English language proficiency. This is a prerequisite for consideration under this visa category.
Minimum English language proficiency scores are required for Permanent Residence consideration. The following tests and corresponding scores are accepted:
International English Language Testing System (IELTS):
- Academic or General Training version accepted
- A minimum score of 6 in each of the 4 components (Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking)
Test of English as a Foreign Language Internet-based Test (TOEFL iBT):
- Only scores taken on or before 25 July 2023 are accepted
- Minimum scores: 12 for Listening, 13 for Reading, 21 for Writing, and 18 for Speaking
Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic):
- A minimum score of 50 in each of the 4 components (Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking)
Occupational English Test (OET):
- A minimum grade of B in each of the 4 components (Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking)
Cambridge C1 Advanced test:
- A minimum score of at least 169 in each of the 4 components
These scores are required to demonstrate proficiency in English and ensure that applicants have the necessary language skills for successful academic engagement.
Get a Skill Assessment: – To apply for an Australian Permanent Residency (PR) visa, you need to have a suitable skills assessment. The Skill assessment bodies take a minimum of 120 days to share the assessment report. This assessment should be submitted within the 30 to 60-day invitation period and must be provided along with your application. The skills assessment should be acquired from the relevant skills assessing authority specific to your nominated skilled occupation. The assessment must have been obtained in three years before your invitation date. If your skills were assessed based on an Australian qualification obtained while on a student visa, the course must be registered on CRICOS. Having a skills assessment is mandatory for some visa subclasses and may be required for others. Contact the appropriate assessing authority for your occupation to organize the assessment well before applying for the visa. Once you receive a positive assessment, provide a certified copy of it with your visa application. If your assessment is not positive, you won’t be eligible to apply for a skilled migration visa.
Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) – Submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI) is a crucial step in pursuing immigration to Australia. It’s a formal way to express your interest in obtaining a skilled migration visa. Through the online platform called SkillSelect, managed by the Australian government, you provide details about your skills, qualifications, work experience, and language proficiency. This information generates a point’s score, determining your eligibility for different visa subclasses. The EOI enables Australia to identify and invite skilled individuals whose attributes align with the country’s economic needs. If you receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) after your EOI submission, you can proceed with the visa application process. However, submitting an EOI doesn’t guarantee an invitation or visa approval. It’s a vital step to initiate the immigration journey and demonstrate your availability for skilled positions in Australia.
Document Gathering – To support the claims you make in your Expression of Interest (EOI) and meet eligibility criteria, you’ll need to assemble the necessary documents. Accuracy is paramount; failure to prove identity or provide accurate information can impact your application.
- Identity Documents – Include passport pages displaying your photo, personal details, and issue/expiry dates. Also, provide a national ID card if available. Present documentation confirming any name change, like marriage/divorce certificates.
- Relationship Documents – For marital status proof (marriage, divorce, widowhood, separation), provide relevant certificates or declarations. If partners or dependent children aren’t applying, explain the reason.
- Character Documents – For over 12 months in Australia in the past decade (since 16), provide an Australian police certificate. Complete disclosure National Police Certificates from the Australian Federal Police are accepted. Overseas police certificates from countries you’ve spent over 12 months in are required.
- Forms – Fill and submit Form 80 (“Personal particulars for assessment including character assessment”) and Form 1221 (“Additional personal particulars information”).
- English Proficiency – Proof of competent English is needed at the invitation time.
- Partner Documents – Provide partner identity and relationship proof: ID, character docs, marriage certificate (if applicable), and documents for other relationships. For de facto relationships, provide registration proof or 12-month history evidence.
- Dependant Documents – For dependants under 18, provide birth certificates, adoption papers, and consent if not migrating with you. Dependants over 18 require identity docs and proof of dependency.
- Skills Assessment – Documents supporting EOI claims, such as skills assessment, language skills, employment history, qualifications, partner skills, professional year (if applicable), etc. Must be obtained within 60 days of invitation.
- Medical Practitioners and Barristers/Solicitors – For medical practitioners, provide medical registration details; for legal professionals, proof of admission to practice.
- Translations – Translate non-English documents. Translators must provide their details and qualifications in English. Certified translations are not required.
- Scans or Photos – Color scans or photos of all documents, clear and concise. Ensure all documents are prepared accurately to support your application.
Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) – The process to obtain an Australian Permanent Residency (PR) visa starts with submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI) for a specific visa subclass. Your EOI is ranked against other applicants based on factors like age, education, and work experience. If you score enough points and meet the eligibility criteria, you might receive an official Invitation to Apply (ITA) for the visa. Invitations are regularly issued through SkillSelect, a platform that selects skilled migrants aligned with Australia’s needs. ITA outlines the visa subclass and details, allowing you to proceed with the PR application process.
Submit PR Application – After receiving an ITA, you can submit your PR application within the specified timeframe. You’ll need to provide detailed information, documentation, and evidence to support your claims, such as work experience, qualifications, and English language proficiency.
Health and Character Checks – As part of the application process, you and your family members may need to undergo medical examinations and provide character certificates to ensure you meet health and character requirements.
Application Assessment – The Department of Home Affairs will assess your application and supporting documents. This process might take some time, and you may be asked for additional information if necessary. Australia’s Department of Home Affairs will evaluate all your documents and supporting documents. It is a time-consuming process and you may be required to provide additional information.
Receive PR Grant – You will receive your Australia Permanent Residence Visa once your application gets approved. This will allow you and your eligible family members to live, work, and study in Australia indefinitely.
