Oceania
Australia immigration and visa guide
Australias General Skilled Migration (GSM) system awards points for age, English proficiency, skills assessments, and state nominations (Subclasses 189, 190, 491).
Department of Home Affairs (ImmiAccount)
- Processing time
- 6 – 36 weeks
- Passport validity
- 6+ months
- Points-based system
- Yes
- Digital nomad friendly
- No
Visa options in Australia
Key requirements
- Positive Skills Assessment from designated evaluating authority (e.g. ACS, Engineers Australia, VETASSESS)
- Competent English score report (IELTS 6.0+, PTE Academic 50+, or Proficient English 65+ for points)
- Expression of Interest (EOI) submitted through SkillSelect meeting minimum 65 points benchmark
- National police clearance from all countries lived in for 12+ months and Bupa medical exam
How to apply for a Australia visa: step by step
- 1
Skills Assessment & English Exam
Obtain positive assessment from ACS / Engineers Australia and achieve Superior/Proficient English on PTE/IELTS.
6 - 12 weeks
- 2
SkillSelect Expression of Interest (EOI)
Lodge EOI online and wait for an Invitation to Apply (ITA) from Home Affairs or state government.
1 - 6 months
- 3
Visa Lodgement via ImmiAccount
Submit complete biometrics, police checks, and medical clearances within 60 days of invitation.
3 - 9 months
Official government links
Frequently asked questions
How many years for Australian Citizenship by conferral?
You must have lived in Australia on a valid visa for the past 4 years, including at least 12 months as a Permanent Resident, and not been absent from Australia for more than 90 days in the 12 months prior to applying.
Find a licensed adviser
For advice on your own case, use a licensed immigration lawyer or adviser. Always check they are registered before you pay anyone. Imiatlas does not refer or review cases.
- Office of the Migration Agents Registration Authority (OMARA)
Search the register to confirm a migration agent is registered.
General information to help you research, not legal advice. Rules change often: always confirm with Department of Home Affairs (ImmiAccount) on the official website before applying.