Visa Requirements in Australia - International Living

Like nearby New Zealand, Australia has become a difficult destination for would-be migrants. The country welcomes investors and skilled workers but has recently scaled back its visas for retirees and people of independent means. However, there are still pathways to residency.

Temporary Visas

North Americans don't need a visa to visit Australia, but they do need to apply for an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) prior to travel. They are valid for up to 12 months and allow visits of up to 90 days at a time.

Long-Term Visas

Australia once had a retirement visa, but it has been closed to new applicants since 2005. A golden visa based on investment was shut down early in 2024. Here are the remaining options:

Skilled Migration Visa

Skilled migration visas are awarded on a points basis. Applicants can have a job lined up in the country or apply to immigrate without one. Lake Canada, Australia, allows its states and territories to motivate individual visa applicants. The point system involved with these visas is listed below.

Business and Investment Visas

There are several pathways to Australian residency via investment. All require the applicant to have already invested in an Australian business or other asset other than residential property. The minimum investment threshold is generally $1 million. Applicants must be under the age of 55.

Global Talent Visa

This visa is for highly skilled individuals in specific target sectors such as IT, healthcare, and engineering. The applicant must be internationally recognized in their field and be endorsed by an Australian organization or individual. You must also be able to show potential to earn around $110,000 USD in salary or other earnings every year.

Permanent Residency

Australia does not have a category of permanent residency separate from long-term residency permits. Applicants who succeed in getting residency status through one of the above pathways are considered permanent residents.

Citizenship

Australia allows dual citizenship. To qualify, you must have been lawfully present in Australia for at least four years before applying, with the last year spent as a permanent resident. You must have been in Australia for at least nine months out of the 12 months prior to applying and must not have been absent from Australia for more than 12 months in total during the four years, including no more than 90 days in the 12 months before your application.

Applicants must show basic knowledge of Australia, its values, laws, and democratic principles. This is usually assessed through a citizenship test for applicants aged 18 to 59.

You need to have a basic understanding of the English language. This is usually tested as part of the citizenship test, although there are no formal English tests required.

You must show an intention to either continue to live in Australia or maintain a close and continuing relationship with Australia (e.g., through work or family ties).

Requirements and Documentation

Australia works on a point system for all of its long-term residence permits. In addition to normal documentation proving one's identity and qualifications, Australia’s immigration authorities will assess the following:

• Age (Maximum 30 points)

• English language ability (Maximum 20 points)

• Skilled employment experience (Maximum 20 points)

• Qualifications (Maximum 20 points)

• Australian study requirement (Maximum 5 points)

• Professional year in Australia (Maximum 5 points)

• State/territory nomination or relative sponsorship (Maximum 15 points for 491/190 visas)

In addition, all visas require the following:

• Must be under 45 years old.

• Your occupation must be on Australia’s relevant skilled occupation list.

• You must have your skills assessed by an approved authority for your occupation.

• You must meet a minimum English language requirement (typically through IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL).

• You need to score a minimum of 65 points on the points test, which assesses factors like age, education, work experience, and language proficiency.

• You must meet the health and character requirements, including a medical examination and police checks.

• For nominated visas, you need to be nominated by a state or territory.

Processing Time

Typically, six months to 1 year, depending on the visa type and complexity of the application.

Cost

An electronic travel authority costs about $13.50. Visa fees range from $2,760 to $5,350, depending on the visa type and complexity.

Contacts

• Embassy of Australia

• 1145 17th St NW, Washington, DC 20036-4707

• Tel. (202) 797-3000

• Web: https://usa.embassy.gov.au/