Australia PR Eligibility Requirements & Processing Time

Applying for an Australian PR Visa from India

Australian PR Visa from India Australia’s allure as a land of diverse landscapes, vibrant cities, and ample opportunities has led to a growing interest among Indians to obtain Permanent Residency (PR) in the country. With a straightforward immigration system and a range of pathways, the process of applying for an Australian PR visa from India can be both achievable and rewarding. This article provides an in-depth guide to help Indian applicants navigate the application process successfully.

Understanding the Australian PR Visa

An Australian PR visa provides the holder with the right to live, work, and study in Australia indefinitely. It also paves the way for Australian citizenship after fulfilling certain criteria. Several visa subclasses cater to different profiles, including skilled workers, students, family members, and business owners. Among the most popular pathways are the General Skilled Migration (GSM) program, Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS), and Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (RSMS).

Benefits of Australian PR

Residency Rights: Holders of an Australian PR visa can live, work, and study anywhere in Australia.
Access to Healthcare and Social Services: PR visa holders enjoy access to Australia’s excellent healthcare system and social services.
Education Opportunities: PR visa holders can enroll in Australian educational institutions at domestic student rates.
Pathway to Citizenship: After meeting specific criteria, PR holders can apply for Australian citizenship.

What is the eligibility requirement for Australian PR?

To qualify for an Australian Permanent residency, you need to meet below requirements:

- Point requirement
- Age
- Language Proficiency
- Nominated Occupation
- Skills Assessment
- Medical status

Step by Step Australia PR Process

1. Determine Eligibility: Before initiating the application process, candidates should ensure they meet the eligibility criteria for their chosen visa subclass. This often includes factors such as age, English language proficiency, qualifications, work experience, and health and character requirements.
2. Skills Assessment: For the GSM program, applicants must undergo a skills assessment relevant to their nominated occupation. Various assessing authorities are responsible for evaluating qualifications and work experience to ensure they meet Australian standards.
3. Expression of Interest (EOI): Creating an EOI through the Skill Select system is a critical step. Candidates provide details about their skills, work experience, and other relevant factors. Based on the information provided, they may receive an invitation to apply for the visa.
4. Lodge Visa Application: Once invited, candidates can submit their visa application. This involves providing accurate and complete documentation, including evidence of skills assessment, English proficiency, health examinations, character assessments, and any other required documents.
5. Points Test: The GSM program employs a points-based system to assess candidates. Points are awarded for factors such as age, qualifications, work experience, language proficiency, and other criteria. Meeting the minimum point’s requirement is essential for a successful application.
6. Health and Character Checks: Applicants must undergo health examinations and obtain police clearance certificates to meet the health and character requirements set by the Australian government.
7. Visa Grant: If the application is successful, the Department of Home Affairs will grant the PR visa. This will allow the applicant and their family members to reside in Australia indefinitely.

What Are the Costs of Australian PR? (2023)

The charges for Australian Permanent Residency are as follows:

Main applicant: $4,115 Australian dollars or INR 220,825 Indian rupees.
Dependents above 18 years (spouse): $2,055 Australian dollars or INR 110,298 Indian rupees.
Dependents below 18 years (children): $1,030 Australian dollars or INR 55,283 Indian rupees.

What is the Timeframe for Australia Permanent Residency Processing?

The Australia PR process encompasses multiple stages, each with distinct processing durations:

Skill Assessment: 45 to 60 days
During skill assessment, you must have your education and work experience evaluated. This process is facilitated by a designated skill assessment authority.
Expression of Interest: Varies based on your score
This stage’s timeline is individualized, depending on your score. You are required to submit your application online through the Skill Select platform.
Visa Application Submission: Within 60 days of receiving the Invitation to Apply (ITA)
Once the ITA is received, you must submit your comprehensive visa application to the Department of Immigration and Border Protection (DIBP).
Visa Approval: Typically 3 to 5 months
Following the submission of necessary documents, the DIBP conducts an in-depth review. Upon being satisfied with your information, your visa grant will be processed. This usually takes around 3 to 5 months.

Which Australian PR Visa Categories Can Indian Citizens Opt For?

There are several Australian PR visa options available for Indian citizens to consider.

It’s crucial to select the appropriate program based on your eligibility and specific needs.

Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189): This visa offers proper permanent residency status in Australia. It’s valid for five years and can later be transformed into citizenship.
Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190): This visa category is designed for skilled workers who receive a nomination from an Australian state or territory. It’s essential to demonstrate that your occupation is listed on the Skilled Occupation List. You have the flexibility to apply for any sector within the nominated state or territory.
Skilled Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491): Introduced to address skill requirements in Australia’s regional areas, this program necessitates meeting skill prerequisites and gaining sponsorship or nomination from a state or territory. Holders of this visa are permitted to reside in the country for duration of four years.