Australia Visa & Immigration Complete Guide 2026

Australia uses a points-based immigration system, making it popular for those looking to obtain permanent residency (PR) based on English ability, work experience, and education.

Main Visa Types

Subclass 482 (Temporary Skill Shortage Visa)

Employer-sponsored work visa with two streams:

• Medium-Term Stream (MLTSSL occupations): Up to 4 years, pathway to PR
• Short-Term Stream (STSOL occupations): Up to 2 years
• Application fee: AUD 3,115+

Subclass 189 (Skilled Independent Visa)

Permanent visa requiring no employer or state sponsor. Submit EOI through SkillSelect with 65+ points.

• Application fee: AUD 4,640+

Subclass 190 (Skilled Nominated Visa)

Permanent visa requiring state/territory government nomination. Competition may be lower than 189.

• Application fee: AUD 4,640+

Subclass 491 (Skilled Work Regional Visa)

5-year provisional visa requiring work and residence in regional Australia. Can transition to Subclass 191 (permanent) after 3 years.

Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 417)

For Japanese nationals aged 18–30 (up to 35 in some cases). 1 year of work and travel. Regional work (agriculture, construction, etc.) allows 2nd and 3rd-year extensions.

• Application fee: AUD 635

Points System (SkillSelect)

Points awarded for age, English proficiency (IELTS), education, work experience, Naati credential, and more. The minimum score to receive an invitation (ITA) varies with each round.

Cost Summary

Pre-Move Checklist

1. English proficiency: Work visas require Competent level (IELTS average 6.0); PR applications may require Proficient (average 7.0)
2. Skilled Occupation List (SOL): Verify your occupation is listed on the relevant SOL
3. Regional work advantage: Regional work can add points and enable Working Holiday extensions

Australia's clear pathway to PR makes it popular with those seeking English-speaking country relocation.