Frequently Asked Questions

Complete answers for Indian professionals pursuing Australia PR

What are the main pathways to Australia Permanent Residency for Indians?

The primary PR pathways are: Subclass 189 (Skilled Independent — no state sponsorship needed), Subclass 190 (Skilled Nominated — requires state/territory nomination), and Subclass 491 (Skilled Work Regional — requires state or family sponsorship, leads to PR via Subclass 191 after 3 years). Most Indian applicants pursue 189 or 190 through the points-tested skilled migration system.

What is the points test? How many points do I need?

The points test (SkillSelect) assigns points based on age, English proficiency, work experience, education, and other factors. The minimum score to be eligible is 65 points, but competitive candidates need 80–90+ points to receive an invitation. Subclass 190 state nominations often have lower effective cutoffs but require meeting the state's specific requirements.

What is a skills assessment and do I need one?

Yes — a positive skills assessment is mandatory for all skilled migration visas. The assessing body depends on your occupation: Engineers Australia (engineering), ACS (IT), VETASSESS (many professional occupations), TRA (trades), AHPRA (healthcare), etc. The assessment verifies your qualifications and work experience meet Australian standards. Assessment takes 4–12 weeks depending on the body.

What is an Invitation to Apply (ITA) and how do I get one?

An ITA is a formal invitation from the Australian government to apply for a PR visa. You first submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect with your points claim. EOIs are ranked by score and occupation demand. When your score exceeds the invitation cutoff in a draw, you receive an ITA and have 60 days to lodge your visa application. Draws happen monthly (189) or per-state (190).

What is the difference between Subclass 189, 190, and 491?

189: Full PR immediately, no state sponsorship, can live/work anywhere in Australia. Score cutoffs are typically highest (85–90+). 190: Full PR immediately, requires state nomination (5 bonus points), must live/work in nominating state for 2 years. Easier to get ITAs than 189. 491: Provisional 5-year visa, requires regional living/work for 3 years, then apply for Subclass 191 PR. Lowest point cutoffs. Good pathway for lower-scoring applicants.

What are the English language requirements for Australia PR?

You must demonstrate Competent English as a minimum (IELTS 6.0 in each band, or equivalent in PTE/TOEFL/OET). For maximum points, you need Superior English (IELTS 8.0 in each band = 20 points). Proficient English (IELTS 7.0 each band) earns 10 points. Results must be less than 3 years old at time of invitation.

What is the age limit for Australia PR skilled migration?

You must be under 45 years old at the time of invitation (not application or approval). Age also affects your points score: 25–32 years = 30 points (maximum), 33–39 = 25 points, 40–44 = 15 points. No points are awarded for age 45+, making it difficult to score competitively above 44.

Do I need a job offer to apply for Australia PR?

For Subclass 189 and most 190/491 applications, no job offer is needed. However, an employer-sponsored nomination from an Australian employer adds 10 points to your EOI score and can make the difference in competitive rounds. Some state nominations require a job offer in that state. Australia's PR system is primarily points-based, not employer-dependent.

How long does Australia PR take from EOI to grant?

After receiving an ITA, you have 60 days to lodge your full application. From lodgement to PR grant typically takes 6–18 months depending on your occupation, completeness of documents, and whether health/character checks flag any issues. High-priority occupations on the MLTSSL list are processed faster. During processing, you can remain in India or come to Australia on another visa.

What is the cost of applying for Australia PR?

The government visa application charge (VAC) for Subclass 189/190 is approximately AUD 4,640 (≈₹2.5 lakh) for the primary applicant, plus AUD 2,325 per adult dependant and AUD 1,160 per child. Additional costs include skills assessment fees (AUD 100–700 depending on body), English tests (₹15,000–18,000), medical exams (₹8,000–15,000), and police clearances.

Can I include my spouse and children in my Australia PR application?

Yes. Your spouse/de facto partner and dependent children (under 18, or over 18 if dependent) can be included as secondary applicants. Your spouse's skills may also earn you 5 additional points if they hold a positive skills assessment in an eligible occupation and meet English proficiency requirements. All dependants must pass health and character checks.

Can I apply for Australia PR from India without visiting Australia first?

Yes. You can submit your entire EOI and PR application from India without visiting Australia. All documents are lodged online through ImmiAccount. However, at some point during processing, you will need to undergo a medical examination (available in India at approved BUPA/AHPRA clinics) and obtain a police clearance certificate.

What rights do I get after receiving Australia PR?

Australia PR (permanent visa) grants you the right to: live and work anywhere in Australia indefinitely, access Medicare (public health insurance), sponsor eligible family members for PR, study at domestic student fees, and apply for Australian citizenship after 4 years of residence (including 1 year as a permanent resident). The visa has no expiry for residents living in Australia.

Can Australia PR lead to Australian citizenship?

Yes. After holding PR and living in Australia for 4 years (including the last 12 months as a permanent resident), you can apply for Australian citizenship. You must pass a citizenship test (English and Australian values), be of good character, and intend to reside in Australia. Australia allows dual citizenship, so you can retain your Indian passport.

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