Permanent Residency

Australia Skilled Visa

For invited workers and New Zealand citizens with skills Australia needs, to live and work permanently anywhere in Australia.

Processing
6-12 months
Max Stay
Permanent
Work Rights
Yes

*Fees and processing times are subject to change. Check official sources.

analytics Visa Overview

Real-time data from official sources

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Processing Time

6-12 months

75% of applications processed within 9 months, 90% within 12 months. Processing times vary based on completeness of application and verification requirements.

Yes
Work Rights
Yes
Path to PR
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Eligibility Requirements

Make sure you meet these requirements before applying.

Key Eligibility Criteria

  • Age: Be under 45 years of age to be invited to apply.
  • Character requirements: You and any family members aged 16 years and over who apply for the visa with you must meet our character requirement.
  • Health requirements: You and any family members who apply for the visa with you must meet our health requirement.
  • English language proficiency: Have at least competent English.
  • Australian values statement: You and any family members aged 18 years and over who apply for the visa with you must have read, or had explained to you, the Life in Australia booklet and confirm you will respect the Australian way of life and obey Australian laws when you sign an Australian Values Statement.
  • No debt to the Australian Government: You must have no outstanding debts to the Australian Government or have arranged to repay any outstanding debts to the Australian Government.
  • Previously cancelled visa: You might not be eligible for this visa if you have had a visa cancelled or refused while you were in Australia.
  • Skilled occupation: Have an occupation on the relevant skilled occupation list.
  • Financial: settlement_funds: Sufficient funds for initial settlement in Australia
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Document Checklist

2 Supporting Documents (Recommended)

  • check Identity documents: Documents to prove your identity.
  • check Skills assessment report: A positive skills assessment for your nominated occupation.
  • check English language test results: Proof of your English language proficiency.
  • check Character documents: Documents to prove you are of good character.
  • check Partner documents: Documents to prove your partner's identity and their English language ability.
  • check Dependant documents: Documents for any other family member under 18 applying with you.
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Download Checklist PDF

Get the complete list of required documents.

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Step-by-Step Application

1

Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)

Submit an EOI in SkillSelect. This is a free service.

lightbulb Ensure all information in your EOI is accurate and up-to-date. You can update your EOI at any time before you are invited to apply for a visa.
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2

Gather your documents

Gather all necessary documents for your application. You have 60 days after we invite you to apply to make a valid visa application.

lightbulb Have all your documents ready before you are invited to apply. This will help you to lodge your application within the 60-day timeframe.
3

Apply for the visa

Apply for the visa online in ImmiAccount.

lightbulb Pay the visa application charge when you apply. We will not process your application until you pay the fee.
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4

Visa outcome

We will let you know our decision in writing.

lightbulb If we grant your visa, we will tell you your visa grant number, the date your visa starts and your visa conditions. If we refuse your visa, we will tell you why we refused it and if you have a right to a review of the decision.
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Common Rejection Reasons

Avoid these common mistakes that lead to visa refusals.

Skills Assessment Not Valid

Ensure assessment is current at invitation date. Match occupation code exactly with EOI. Renew assessment if close to expiry. Check assessment covers all claimed experience.

Points Claim Could Not Be Verified

Provide comprehensive evidence for every point claimed. Include employer letters with specific duties and dates. Have qualifications assessed. Keep all original documents.

EOI Details Did Not Match Application

Ensure EOI exactly matches your documents. Update EOI immediately if circumstances change. Keep detailed records of all dates and claims.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is SkillSelect and how does it work? expand_more
SkillSelect is an online service where you submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) for skilled migration. Based on your EOI details and points score, you may be invited to apply for a visa. Invitations are issued in regular rounds, prioritizing highest points first. EOIs are valid for 2 years.