Visa requirements

Australia

General visa requirements for travelling to Australia. These policies apply to all nationalities unless a country-specific policy exists.

Have a specific passport country? Check your specific route.

Work / Immigration visa (Temporary Graduate Visa - Post-Vocational Education Work Stream (subclass 485))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Processing time: 3 to 6 months
Fee: AUD $2,300
Validity: 18 months
Entry: Multiple entry

For international students who have completed a diploma or trade qualification in Australia with an occupation on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List. Must apply within 6 months of completing course. Must be under 35 years of age. Requires a positive skills assessment.

Eligibility

Nationality
Open to all nationalities who have studied in Australia
Age
Must be under 35 years of age
Employment
Must have an occupation on the MLTSSL and a positive skills assessment

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 1; Validity months: 6
Police clearance
Countries required: All countries lived in for 12+ months in last 10 years; Validity months: 12
Academic transcript
Provide academic records for the course, qualification or training route.

Must be notarized: No; Must be translated: No
Skills assessment
Assessing authority: Relevant assessing authority for nominated occupation; Occupation list: Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL)
Health exam
Panel physician required: Yes; Validity months: 12
Language test score
Accepted tests: IELTS, TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, CAE, OET; Minimum score: IELTS 6.5 overall with minimum 5.5 in each component
Private health insurance
Coverage territory: Australia; Minimum coverage: Adequate health insurance

How to apply

Document gathering
Obtain skills assessment, gather completion letter, transcripts, English test results
Online application
Apply online through ImmiAccount while in Australia
Fee payment
Pay AUD $2,300 visa application charge
Processing wait
Wait 3-6 months for processing

Apply for an e-Visa online (opens in new tab)

Work / Immigration visa (Skills in Demand Visa (subclass 482) - Specialist Skills Stream)

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Processing time: Up to 70 days for 90% of applications
Fee: AUD $3,115
Validity: Up to 4 years
Entry: Multiple entry

For highly paid specialist workers with a salary of AUD $141,210 or above. No specific occupation list requirement due to the high salary threshold. Provides pathway to permanent residence. This stream recognises that highly paid workers fill critical specialist roles.

Eligibility

Nationality
Open to all nationalities
Employment
Must be nominated by an approved sponsor. Offered salary must be at least AUD $141,210 per year. Minimum 1 year of relevant work experience.
Financial
Minimum salary of AUD $141,210 per year acts as the eligibility threshold for this stream

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 6
Police clearance
Countries required: All countries lived in for 12+ months in last 10 years; Validity months: 12
Health exam
Panel physician required: Yes; Validity months: 12
Work contract
Provide a signed job offer, contract or assignment letter showing the role, dates and employer.

Must be notarized: No; Must be translated: No
Language test score
Accepted tests: IELTS, PTE Academic, TOEFL iBT, CAE, OET; Minimum score: IELTS 5.0 overall with at least 5.0 in each band (or equivalent)

How to apply

Document gathering
Employer lodges sponsorship and nomination application
Online application
Applicant lodges visa application through ImmiAccount
Fee payment
Pay AUD $3,115 visa application charge
Processing wait
Wait up to 70 days for processing

Apply for an e-Visa online (opens in new tab)

Work / Immigration visa (Working Holiday Visa (subclass 417))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay: 365 days
Processing time: 4 to 21 days
Fee: AUD $650
Validity: 12 months from first entry
Entry: Multiple entry

For young people from eligible countries to holiday and work in Australia for up to 12 months. Can work for each employer for up to 6 months. Can study for up to 4 months. Age limit is 18-30 for most countries, but up to 35 for UK, Ireland, Canada, and France passport holders. Can apply for second and third Working Holiday visas if specified regional work requirements are met. Must have AUD $5,000 in funds plus return airfare.

Eligibility

Nationality
Must hold a passport from one of the 20 eligible countries: Belgium, Canada, Cyprus, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Hong Kong SAR, Ireland, Italy, Japan, South Korea, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, Taiwan, United Kingdom, San Marino
Age
Must be aged 18-30 at time of application (18-35 for UK, Ireland, Canada, and France passport holders)
Financial
Must have AUD $5,000 in available funds plus return airfare
Health
Must meet health requirements
Criminal record
Must not have a substantial criminal record
Visa history
Must not have previously held a subclass 417 visa (unless applying for second or third visa)

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 1; Validity months: 6
Proof of funds
Accepted forms: Bank statements, credit card statements; Minimum amount: AUD $5,000 plus return airfare or sufficient funds to purchase one
Health exam
Panel physician required: May be required depending on nationality and planned activities; Validity months: 12

How to apply

Online application
Apply online through ImmiAccount
Fee payment
Pay AUD $650 visa application charge
Biometrics
Provide biometrics if required by nationality
Processing wait
90% of applications processed within 10 days

Apply for an e-Visa online (opens in new tab)

Work / Immigration visa (Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189) - Points-Tested Stream)

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Processing time: 10 to 12 months
Fee: AUD $4,640
Validity: Permanent
Entry: Multiple entry

Permanent residence visa for skilled workers. Requires an invitation after submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI) via SkillSelect. Minimum 65 points required, but competitive occupations typically require 85-100 points. Occupation must be on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL). Grants permanent residency to live and work anywhere in Australia. Additional applicant charges: AUD $2,320 per adult, AUD $1,160 per child.

Eligibility

Nationality
Open to all nationalities
Age
Must be under 45 years of age at time of invitation
Employment
Must have a positive skills assessment in an occupation on the MLTSSL from the relevant assessing authority
Health
Must meet health requirements
Criminal record
Must meet character requirements and provide police clearances

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 6
Police clearance
Countries required: All countries lived in for 12+ months in last 10 years; Validity months: 12
Skills assessment
Assessing authority: Relevant authority (e.g., Engineers Australia, ACS for IT, VETASSESS, ANMAC for nursing); Occupation list: Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL)
Health exam
Panel physician required: Yes; Validity months: 12
Points assessment
Assessment system: SkillSelect Points Test; Minimum points: 65
Language test score
Accepted tests: IELTS, PTE Academic, TOEFL iBT, CAE, OET; Minimum score: Competent English: IELTS 6.0 in each band (higher scores earn additional points)

How to apply

Document gathering
Obtain skills assessment from relevant authority, take English language test, gather employment references and qualifications
Online application
Submit Expression of Interest (EOI) via SkillSelect and wait for invitation. After receiving invitation, lodge visa application through ImmiAccount within 60 days
Fee payment
Pay AUD $4,640 visa application charge for primary applicant
Biometrics
Provide biometrics if required
Processing wait
Wait 10-12 months for processing
Visa collection
Visa granted electronically as permanent residence

Apply for an e-Visa online (opens in new tab)

Work / Immigration visa (Skills in Demand Visa (subclass 482) - Core Skills Stream)

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Processing time: Up to 70 days for 90% of applications
Fee: AUD $3,115
Validity: Up to 4 years
Entry: Multiple entry

Temporary visa allowing an employer to sponsor a skilled worker. Replaced the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa on 7 December 2024 as the Skills in Demand (SID) visa. Core Skills Stream is for occupations on the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL) with salary between AUD $76,515 and AUD $141,210. Minimum 1 year of relevant work experience required. Provides pathway to permanent residence via subclass 186. Employer must pay nomination fee of AUD $330 and sponsorship fee of AUD $420.

Eligibility

Nationality
Open to all nationalities
Employment
Must be nominated by an approved sponsor for an occupation on the CSOL. Minimum 1 year of full-time relevant work experience in the past 5 years. Offered salary must meet TSMIT of AUD $76,515.
Health
Must meet health requirements
Criminal record
Must meet character requirements

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 6
Police clearance
Countries required: All countries lived in for 12+ months in last 10 years; Validity months: 12
Health exam
Panel physician required: Yes; Validity months: 12
Work contract
Provide a signed job offer, contract or assignment letter showing the role, dates and employer.

Must be notarized: No; Must be translated: No
Language test score
Accepted tests: IELTS, PTE Academic, TOEFL iBT, CAE, OET; Minimum score: IELTS 5.0 overall with at least 5.0 in each band (or equivalent)

How to apply

Document gathering
Employer becomes an approved sponsor, lodges nomination for the position
Online application
Applicant lodges visa application through ImmiAccount
Fee payment
Pay AUD $3,115 visa application charge. Employer pays AUD $330 nomination fee and AUD $420 sponsorship fee
Processing wait
Wait up to 70 days for processing

Apply for an e-Visa online (opens in new tab)

Work / Immigration visa (Partner Visa - Offshore (subclass 309/100))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Processing time: 15 to 19 months
Fee: AUD $9,365
Validity: Temporary (309) then Permanent (100) after approximately 2 years
Entry: Multiple entry

Two-stage visa for partners of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible NZ citizens. First grants temporary visa (309), then permanent visa (100) approximately 2 years later. Must be outside Australia when applying and when visa is granted. Additional applicant charges: AUD $4,685 per adult, AUD $2,345 per child under 18. Combined application covers both temporary and permanent stages.

Eligibility

Nationality
Open to all nationalities
Purpose of visit
Must be the spouse or de facto partner (including same-sex) of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible NZ citizen. De facto relationship must have existed for at least 12 months.
Age
Both applicant and sponsor must be at least 18 years old
Health
Must meet health requirements
Criminal record
Must meet character requirements. Sponsor must pass family violence and character checks.

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 6
Police clearance
Countries required: All countries lived in for 12+ months in last 10 years; Validity months: 12
Marriage certificate
Must be notarized: No; Must be translated: Yes
Proof of address
Provide current address evidence, such as a utility bill, tenancy document, residence certificate or official correspondence.

Accepted documents: Joint tenancy agreement, utility bills, correspondence at shared address; Max age months: 6
Sponsor financial
Minimum income: No specific minimum but must demonstrate ability to support partner; Required documents: Sponsor's tax returns, pay slips, bank statements
Health exam
Panel physician required: Yes; Validity months: 12
Relationship evidence
Minimum evidence items: 4; Relationship type: Married or de facto (minimum 12 months de facto relationship)

How to apply

Document gathering
Gather relationship evidence (financial, household, social, commitment), identity documents, police clearances
Online application
Sponsor lodges sponsorship application, then applicant lodges combined 309/100 visa application via ImmiAccount
Fee payment
Pay AUD $9,365 combined visa application charge
Biometrics
Provide biometrics at Australian Visa Application Centre if required
Processing wait
Wait 15-19 months for temporary 309 visa, then assessed for permanent 100 after approximately 2 years

Apply for an e-Visa online (opens in new tab)

Work / Immigration visa (Temporary Graduate Visa - Post-Higher Education Work Stream (subclass 485))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Processing time: 3 to 5 months
Fee: AUD $2,300
Validity: 2 years (bachelor/coursework masters), 3 years (research masters/doctorate)
Entry: Multiple entry

For international students who have recently graduated from an Australian institution with a bachelor's degree, masters by research, or doctorate. Must apply within 6 months of completing course. Must be under 35 years of age. English requirement increased to IELTS 6.5 overall (minimum 5.5 each band) from March 2024.

Eligibility

Nationality
Open to all nationalities who have studied in Australia
Age
Must be under 35 years of age at time of application
Visa history
Must have held a Student visa (subclass 500) within the last 6 months and completed at least 2 academic years (92 weeks) of study in Australia
Health
Must meet health requirements and maintain health insurance

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 1; Validity months: 6
Police clearance
Countries required: All countries lived in for 12+ months in last 10 years; Validity months: 12
Academic transcript
Provide academic records for the course, qualification or training route.

Must be notarized: No; Must be translated: No
Health exam
Panel physician required: Yes, must use approved panel physician; Validity months: 12
Language test score
Accepted tests: IELTS, TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, CAE, OET; Minimum score: IELTS 6.5 overall with minimum 5.5 in each component
Private health insurance
Coverage territory: Australia; Minimum coverage: Adequate health insurance for duration of stay

How to apply

Document gathering
Gather completion letter, academic transcript, English test results, health insurance, police clearances
Online application
Apply online through ImmiAccount while in Australia
Fee payment
Pay AUD $2,300 visa application charge
Processing wait
Wait 3-5 months for processing

Apply for an e-Visa online (opens in new tab)

Work / Immigration visa (Prospective Marriage Visa (subclass 300))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay: 270 days
Processing time: 15 to 21 months
Fee: AUD $9,365
Validity: 9 months
Entry: Multiple entry

For people who want to come to Australia to marry their prospective spouse who is an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible NZ citizen. Must marry within 9 months of arrival. After marriage, can apply for Partner visa (820/801) onshore. Must have met in person and be known to each other personally.

Eligibility

Nationality
Open to all nationalities
Purpose of visit
Must intend to marry an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible NZ citizen within 9 months of arrival. Must have met in person.
Age
Both applicant and sponsor must be at least 18 years old

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 6
Police clearance
Countries required: All countries lived in for 12+ months in last 10 years; Validity months: 12
Health exam
Panel physician required: Yes; Validity months: 12
Relationship evidence
Minimum evidence items: 2; Relationship type: Prospective marriage - must have met in person

How to apply

Document gathering
Gather relationship evidence, Notice of Intended Marriage, identity and character documents
Online application
Apply from outside Australia
Fee payment
Pay AUD $9,365 visa application charge
Processing wait
Wait 15-21 months for processing

Work / Immigration visa (Parent Visa (subclass 103))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Processing time: Approximately 29 years (extremely long queue)
Fee: AUD $5,280 (first instalment) + AUD $2,065 (second instalment)
Validity: Permanent
Entry: Multiple entry

Non-contributory permanent parent visa with significantly lower fees than subclass 143 but extremely long processing times (approximately 29 years as of 2025). Same eligibility as 143 but without the large second instalment. Must pass balance of family test. Requires Assurance of Support bond. Most applicants opt for the Contributory Parent Visa (143) due to the processing time.

Eligibility

Nationality
Open to all nationalities
Purpose of visit
Must be the parent of a child who is an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible NZ citizen. Must pass the balance of family test.
Health
Must meet health requirements

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 6
Police clearance
Countries required: All countries lived in for 12+ months in last 10 years; Validity months: 12
Sponsor financial
Minimum income: Must meet AOS income threshold; Required documents: Assurance of Support (AOS) bond, sponsor's income evidence
Health exam
Panel physician required: Yes; Validity months: 12

How to apply

Document gathering
Gather identity, relationship, and financial documents
Online application
Lodge visa application
Fee payment
Pay first instalment of AUD $5,280. Pay second instalment of AUD $2,065 before visa is granted
Processing wait
Wait approximately 29 years (queue-based processing)

Work / Immigration visa (Contributory Parent Visa (subclass 143))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Processing time: 12 to 24 months
Fee: AUD $5,040 (first instalment) + AUD $43,600 (second instalment)
Validity: Permanent
Entry: Multiple entry

Permanent visa for parents of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible NZ citizens. Two-instalment fee structure with total approximately AUD $48,640. Requires Assurance of Support bond of AUD $10,000 (one parent) or AUD $14,000 (two parents) held for 10 years. The sponsoring child must have lived in Australia for at least 2 years. At least half of the applicant's children must live permanently in Australia (balance of family test).

Eligibility

Nationality
Open to all nationalities
Purpose of visit
Must be the parent of a child who is an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible NZ citizen. Must pass the balance of family test.
Health
Must meet health requirements
Criminal record
Must meet character requirements

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 6
Police clearance
Countries required: All countries lived in for 12+ months in last 10 years; Validity months: 12
Sponsor financial
Minimum income: Must meet AOS income threshold; Required documents: Assurance of Support (AOS) bond, sponsor's tax returns, income evidence
Health exam
Panel physician required: Yes; Validity months: 12
Financial guarantee bond
Accepted institutions: Centrelink/Services Australia; Bond amount: AUD $10,000 for one parent, AUD $14,000 for two parents

How to apply

Document gathering
Gather identity, relationship, and financial documents. Sponsor arranges Assurance of Support
Online application
Lodge visa application
Fee payment
Pay first instalment of AUD $5,040. Pay second instalment of AUD $43,600 before visa is granted
Processing wait
Wait 12-24 months for processing

Work / Immigration visa (National Innovation Visa (subclass 858))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Processing time: 2 to 6 months
Fee: AUD $4,305
Validity: Permanent
Entry: Multiple entry

Replaced the Global Talent Visa in December 2024. Permanent visa for exceptional innovators, entrepreneurs, researchers, and business leaders with internationally recognised achievements. Must meet the high-income threshold of AUD $162,000 annually or demonstrate future earning potential. Priority sectors: AgTech, FinTech, MedTech, Cyber Security, Quantum Information, Advanced Digital, Data Science, and ICT. Requires nomination by an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen, or an Australian organisation with a national reputation (Form 1000).

Eligibility

Nationality
Open to all nationalities
Employment
Must have internationally recognised record of exceptional and outstanding achievement in one of seven priority sectors
Financial
Must meet high-income threshold of AUD $162,000 per year or demonstrate future earning potential at that level

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 6
Police clearance
Countries required: All countries lived in for 12+ months in last 10 years; Validity months: 12
Curriculum vitae
Provide a current CV showing education, work history and relevant qualifications.
Extraordinary ability evidence
Accepted categories: International awards, patents, published research, significant industry recognition, high salary evidence, senior positions at distinguished organisations; Evidence items required: 3
Health exam
Panel physician required: Yes; Validity months: 12
Reference letter
Accepted referees: Australian citizen, permanent resident, eligible NZ citizen, or Australian organisation with national reputation; Letters required: 1
Language test score
Accepted tests: IELTS, PTE Academic, TOEFL iBT, CAE, OET; Minimum score: Functional English (IELTS 4.5 overall) or evidence of study in English

How to apply

Online application
Submit Expression of Interest (EOI) demonstrating achievements and obtain nomination. After receiving invitation, lodge visa application through ImmiAccount
Fee payment
Pay AUD $4,305 visa application charge
Processing wait
Wait 2-6 months for processing

Apply for an e-Visa online (opens in new tab)

Work / Immigration visa (Partner Visa - Onshore (subclass 820/801))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Processing time: 15 to 19 months
Fee: AUD $9,365
Validity: Temporary (820) then Permanent (801) after approximately 2 years
Entry: Multiple entry

Two-stage visa for partners of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible NZ citizens who are already in Australia. First grants temporary visa (820), then permanent visa (801) approximately 2 years later. Must be in Australia when applying and when 820 is granted. Additional applicant charges: AUD $4,685 per adult, AUD $2,345 per child.

Eligibility

Nationality
Open to all nationalities already in Australia on a substantive visa
Purpose of visit
Must be the spouse or de facto partner of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible NZ citizen. Must be in Australia at time of application.
Health
Must meet health requirements
Criminal record
Must meet character requirements

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 6
Police clearance
Countries required: All countries lived in for 12+ months in last 10 years; Validity months: 12
Marriage certificate
Must be notarized: No; Must be translated: Yes
Sponsor financial
Minimum income: No specific minimum but must demonstrate ability to support partner; Required documents: Sponsor's tax returns, pay slips, bank statements
Health exam
Panel physician required: Yes; Validity months: 12
Relationship evidence
Minimum evidence items: 4; Relationship type: Married or de facto (minimum 12 months de facto relationship)

How to apply

Document gathering
Gather relationship evidence, identity documents, police clearances
Online application
Apply online through ImmiAccount while in Australia
Fee payment
Pay AUD $9,365 visa application charge
Processing wait
Wait 15-19 months for temporary 820, then assessed for permanent 801 after approximately 2 years

Apply for an e-Visa online (opens in new tab)

Work / Immigration visa (Work and Holiday Visa (subclass 462))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay: 365 days
Processing time: 14 to 60 days
Fee: AUD $650
Validity: 12 months from first entry
Entry: Multiple entry

Similar to Working Holiday (417) but for a different set of countries, with additional requirements including tertiary education and English language proficiency. Age limit 18-30. Some countries (China, India, Vietnam) participate through a ballot system. Can work for each employer for up to 6 months. Can study for up to 4 months. Must have AUD $5,000 in funds plus return airfare. Bosnia & Herzegovina and Montenegro added in January 2025.

Eligibility

Nationality
Must hold a passport from one of the 26 eligible countries: Argentina, Austria, Chile, China, Czech Republic, Hungary, Indonesia, Israel, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Peru, Poland, Portugal, San Marino, Singapore, Slovak Republic, Slovenia, Spain, Switzerland, Thailand, Turkey, USA, Uruguay, Vietnam, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Montenegro
Age
Must be aged 18-30 at time of application
Financial
Must have AUD $5,000 in available funds plus return airfare
Purpose of visit
Must have completed at least two years of undergraduate university study or equivalent vocational training

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 1; Validity months: 6
Proof of funds
Accepted forms: Bank statements, credit card statements; Minimum amount: AUD $5,000 plus return airfare or sufficient funds to purchase one
Academic transcript
Provide academic records for the course, qualification or training route.

Must be notarized: No; Must be translated: Yes
Health exam
Panel physician required: May be required depending on nationality; Validity months: 12
Language test score
Accepted tests: IELTS, TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, CAE; Minimum score: IELTS 4.5 overall or TOEFL iBT 32 or equivalent

How to apply

Online application
Apply online through ImmiAccount (some countries require pre-application ballot registration)
Fee payment
Pay AUD $650 visa application charge
Biometrics
Provide biometrics if required by nationality
Processing wait
Wait 14-60 days for processing

Apply for an e-Visa online (opens in new tab)

Work / Immigration visa (Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (subclass 491))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Processing time: 12 to 24 months (state nominated), 10 to 21 months (family sponsored)
Fee: AUD $4,770
Validity: 5 years (provisional), pathway to permanent residence after 3 years
Entry: Multiple entry

Provisional visa for skilled workers who want to live and work in regional Australia. Requires nomination from a state/territory government or sponsorship from an eligible family member living in regional Australia. Minimum 65 points (includes 15 points for regional nomination). After 3 years of living, working, and earning in regional Australia, holders can apply for permanent residence via subclass 191.

Eligibility

Nationality
Open to all nationalities
Age
Must be under 45 years of age at time of invitation
Employment
Must have a positive skills assessment and be nominated by a state/territory government or sponsored by an eligible family member in regional Australia

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 6
Police clearance
Countries required: All countries lived in for 12+ months in last 10 years; Validity months: 12
Skills assessment
Assessing authority: Relevant authority for nominated occupation; Occupation list: Combined regional occupation list (varies by state)
Health exam
Panel physician required: Yes; Validity months: 12
Points assessment
Assessment system: SkillSelect Points Test (includes 15 points for regional nomination); Minimum points: 65
Language test score
Accepted tests: IELTS, PTE Academic, TOEFL iBT, CAE, OET; Minimum score: Competent English: IELTS 6.0 in each band minimum

How to apply

Document gathering
Obtain skills assessment, apply for state nomination or family sponsorship
Online application
Submit EOI via SkillSelect. After receiving nomination/invitation, lodge visa application within 60 days
Fee payment
Pay AUD $4,770 visa application charge
Processing wait
Wait 12-24 months for processing

Apply for an e-Visa online (opens in new tab)

Work / Immigration visa (Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Processing time: 10 to 12 months
Fee: AUD $4,910
Validity: Permanent
Entry: Multiple entry

Permanent residence visa for skilled workers nominated by an Australian state or territory government. Requires an invitation after EOI via SkillSelect. Minimum 65 points (including 5 points from state nomination). Must commit to living in the nominating state/territory for at least 2 years. Each state has its own nomination requirements and priority occupation lists.

Eligibility

Nationality
Open to all nationalities
Age
Must be under 45 years of age at time of invitation
Employment
Must have a positive skills assessment and be nominated by a state/territory government
Health
Must meet health requirements

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 6
Police clearance
Countries required: All countries lived in for 12+ months in last 10 years; Validity months: 12
Skills assessment
Assessing authority: Relevant authority for nominated occupation; Occupation list: Combined List of Eligible Skilled Occupations (varies by state)
Sponsorship certificate
Certificate name: State/Territory Nomination; Sponsor type: Australian State or Territory Government
Health exam
Panel physician required: Yes; Validity months: 12
Points assessment
Assessment system: SkillSelect Points Test (includes 5 points for state nomination); Minimum points: 65
Language test score
Accepted tests: IELTS, PTE Academic, TOEFL iBT, CAE, OET; Minimum score: Competent English: IELTS 6.0 in each band minimum

How to apply

Document gathering
Obtain skills assessment, apply for state/territory nomination
Online application
Submit EOI via SkillSelect indicating interest in state nomination. After receiving state nomination and invitation, lodge visa application within 60 days
Fee payment
Pay AUD $4,910 visa application charge
Processing wait
Wait 10-12 months for processing

Apply for an e-Visa online (opens in new tab)

Work / Immigration visa (Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Processing time: 6 to 12 months
Fee: AUD $2,455
Validity: Permanent
Entry: Multiple entry

Permanent visa for skilled workers nominated by an approved Australian employer. Three streams: Direct Entry (for workers not currently on a 482), Temporary Residence Transition (for 482 holders working 2+ years for their sponsor), and Labour Agreement. Employer must pay nomination fee of AUD $540 and Skilling Australians Fund (SAF) levy of AUD $3,000 (turnover <$10M) or AUD $5,000 (turnover >$10M). Minimum salary of AUD $76,515 (TSMIT) applies.

Eligibility

Nationality
Open to all nationalities
Age
Must be under 45 years of age (exemptions may apply)
Employment
Must be nominated by an approved Australian employer. Direct Entry requires 3 years of relevant work experience and positive skills assessment. Minimum salary AUD $76,515.
Health
Must meet health requirements
Criminal record
Must meet character requirements

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 6
Police clearance
Countries required: All countries lived in for 12+ months in last 10 years; Validity months: 12
Skills assessment
Assessing authority: Relevant assessing authority (Direct Entry stream only); Occupation list: Core Skills Occupations List (CSOL)
Health exam
Panel physician required: Yes; Validity months: 12
Work contract
Provide a signed job offer, contract or assignment letter showing the role, dates and employer.

Must be notarized: No; Must be translated: No
Language test score
Accepted tests: IELTS, PTE Academic, TOEFL iBT, CAE, OET; Minimum score: Competent English: IELTS 6.0 in each band (exemptions may apply for Transition stream)

How to apply

Document gathering
Employer obtains Standard Business Sponsorship approval, then lodges nomination
Online application
After nomination approved, applicant lodges visa application through ImmiAccount
Fee payment
Pay AUD $2,455 visa application charge. Employer pays AUD $540 nomination fee plus SAF levy
Biometrics
Provide biometrics if required
Processing wait
Wait 6-12 months for processing

Apply for an e-Visa online (opens in new tab)

This information is provided for general guidance only. Visa requirements can change frequently and may vary by nationality. Always verify with the official embassy or consulate before making travel plans. Contact [email protected] for assistance.