If you are planning to live in Australia, understanding the different types of visas available is an important step in your journey. Australia offers several visa options, depending on your reason for moving, your qualifications, and how long you plan to stay. This article will explain the visa options in detail and guide you through the process of applying for a visa to live in Australia.
Types of Visas to Live in Australia
There are different types of visas for living in Australia. Some are designed for skilled workers, others for students, and some for those who want to reunite with their families. Below, we will explain some of the most common visa types that allow you to live in Australia.
1. Skilled Migration Visa
A skilled migration visa is for people who have skills that are needed in Australia. This is one of the most popular ways to live in Australia for people with qualifications or experience in specific fields.
Subtypes of Skilled Migration Visas
Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189): This visa is for people who are not sponsored by an employer, family member, or state/territory. It allows you to live and work anywhere in Australia.
Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190): This visa is for skilled workers who are nominated by an Australian state or territory government. It allows you to live and work in the state or territory that nominated you.
Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (subclass 491): This is a temporary visa for skilled workers who want to live and work in regional Australia. It is for those who are nominated by a state/territory or sponsored by a family member.
Eligibility Requirements
You must be under 45 years old.
You must meet the skills and qualifications required for the occupation you want to work in.
You need to pass a points test (based on factors like age, skills, English language ability, and work experience).
You must have your skills assessed by a relevant authority in Australia.
Process of Applying
Check your occupation: Visit the Skilled Occupation List (SOL) to see if your occupation is listed.
Get a skills assessment: Apply for a skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority.
Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI): Through SkillSelect, submit an EOI to let the Australian government know that you are interested in applying for a skilled visa.
Wait for an invitation: If you meet the points requirement, you may receive an invitation to apply for the visa.
Submit your application: After receiving the invitation, submit your visa application along with all required documents.
2. Family Reunion Visa
If you have a family member who is an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen, you may be eligible to apply for a family reunion visa. These visas allow you to join your family in Australia.
Subtypes of Family Reunion Visas
Partner Visa (subclasses 820 and 801): If you are in a genuine relationship with an Australian citizen or permanent resident, you can apply for this visa. The subclass 820 visa allows you to stay in Australia while your permanent subclass 801 visa is being processed.
Parent Visa (subclass 103): If you are the parent of an Australian citizen or permanent resident, you may be eligible to apply for this visa, which allows you to live in Australia permanently.
Child Visa (subclass 101): This visa is for children who are outside Australia but have an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen parent.
Eligibility Requirements
Your family member must meet certain requirements, such as being a permanent resident or citizen of Australia.
You must prove that your relationship is genuine and ongoing (for partner visas).
For parent visas, you must demonstrate that your child is an Australian citizen or permanent resident.
Process of Applying
Gather supporting documents: You need to provide documents to prove your relationship with the family member, such as marriage certificates, photographs, and evidence of communication.
Submit the visa application: After gathering the necessary documents, submit your application.
Wait for approval: The processing time can take a long time, so you will need to wait until your visa is approved.
3. Student Visa
If you plan to study in Australia, you will need to apply for a student visa. This visa allows you to study full-time at an accredited institution and live in Australia for the duration of your studies.
Eligibility Requirements
- You must have been accepted by an Australian educational institution.
- You must have sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay.
- You need to meet health and character requirements.
- You must have health insurance for the duration of your stay.
Process of Applying
Get an offer from an Australian institution: Apply and be accepted into an Australian institution.
Apply for the visa: Complete the online application for the student visa, providing details of your course and proof of financial support.
Wait for approval: Once your application is submitted, wait for the Australian government to approve your visa.
4. Business and Investment Visas
If you are a business owner or investor, you can apply for a business visa to live in Australia. These visas are designed for people who want to invest in Australia’s economy or run a business there.
Subtypes of Business and Investment Visas
Business Innovation and Investment (Provisional) Visa (subclass 188): This is a temporary visa for business owners and investors who want to establish or manage a business in Australia.
Business Talent Visa (subclass 132): This is a permanent visa for people with a history of business success who wish to operate a business in Australia.
Eligibility Requirements
You need to have significant business or investment experience.
You must show that you have the financial means to invest or start a business in Australia.
You may need to be nominated by a state or territory government.
Process of Applying
Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI): You need to submit an EOI to express interest in applying for a business visa.
Obtain state/territory nomination: If required, get a nomination from an Australian state or territory.
Apply for the visa: After receiving a nomination, submit your visa application with all required documents.
5. Working Holiday Visa
If you are between the ages of 18 and 30 (35 in some cases), you may be eligible for a working holiday visa. This visa allows you to travel and work in Australia for up to one year.
Eligibility Requirements
You must be from an eligible country (such as the UK, Canada, or the US).
You must meet the age requirement (18-30 years old).
You must have sufficient funds for your stay in Australia.
Process of Applying
Apply online: Submit your application for the working holiday visa through the official Australian government website.
Wait for approval: Once your application is processed, you will receive the visa approval.
6. Resident Return Visa (RRV)
If you are a former permanent resident of Australia and want to return, you can apply for a Resident Return Visa. This visa is for people who were once permanent residents and wish to come back to Australia after traveling abroad.
Eligibility Requirements
You must have been a permanent resident of Australia at some point.
You may need to demonstrate ties to Australia, such as family or business connections.
Process of Applying
Submit the application: Complete the online application for a Resident Return Visa.
Provide supporting documents: You will need to provide documents proving your previous permanent residency in Australia and your ties to the country.
Conclusion
When planning to live in Australia, choosing the right visa is crucial to ensure a smooth transition. Whether you are applying for a skilled migration visa, a family reunion visa, a student visa, or any other type of visa, understanding the eligibility requirements and application process is essential. Make sure to research your options carefully, and if needed, consult with an immigration advisor to guide you through the process.
By following the steps outlined in this article, you can make informed decisions about the visa you need to live in Australia and start your journey toward building a new life in this beautiful country.
Related topics:
How To Obtain An Australian Visa
Do Mexicans Need A Visa For Canada?
What Documents are Needed for Canadian Tourist Visas
