An Australian Permanent Residency visa allows a foreign citizen to stay in the country indefinitely.
It also includes a five-year travel facility, which means you can leave and re-enter Australia as many times as you want during that period.
Permanent residents enjoy several major benefits.
They can access government healthcare services, get free or subsidized education, and work freely in any field.
Their status remains valid for life as long as they continue to live in Australia.
However, PR holders cannot vote and are not eligible for government jobs.
These rights are available only after becoming an Australian citizen.
Main Ways to Apply for PR
Australia offers several pathways to obtain permanent residency.
Each category is designed for different types of applicants.
Family Stream Visa
This option is for people who have close family members who are Australian citizens or PR holders.
For example, if someone’s spouse is an Australian citizen, they may receive PR through this route.
General Skilled Migration (GSM) Visa
This pathway is for skilled workers whose professions are in demand in Australia.
It includes visas like Skill Independent (subclass 189) and Skill Nominated (subclass 190).
Applicants must meet skill requirements and score well in the points-based selection system.
Employer Sponsored Visa
Under the Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186), Australian companies can sponsor talented foreign workers for PR.
This is granted when the worker’s skills match the country’s job requirements.
Eligibility and Requirements
Applicants under the Skilled Migration route must submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through the SkillSelect portal.
They also need a skills assessment from an approved authority.
The PR process is competitive and works on a points system.
Points are based on education, work experience, English proficiency, and age.
Most skilled visas require applicants to be under 45 years old at the time of application, although exceptional cases exist for highly skilled individuals.
Applicants must also provide documents such as a valid passport, photographs, police clearance, character certificates, health reports, and proof of savings.
PR Validity and Renewal Rules
Once granted, permanent residency does not expire. However, the five-year travel facility attached to it does.
After five years, PR holders can stay in Australia indefinitely but will need a Resident Return Visa (RRV) if they want to travel outside and come back.
PR can also be cancelled by the Department of Home Affairs under certain circumstances.
Becoming an Australian Citizen
After living in Australia for four years, including at least one year as a permanent resident, you can apply for citizenship.
Applicants must show good character, pass a citizenship test, and prove their connection to Australia.
Once approved, the process ends with a citizenship ceremony, usually held within three to twelve months.
