For many couples, permanent residency in Australia still remains a dream destination for building their new life there with endless opportunities, breathtaking views, and the high standard of living. Welcoming the skilled migrants and their families, this country is attracting more people for stability and bright prospects. From the many doors available, PR in Australia is the golden ticket for many couples.
With Permanent Residency you and your partner can enjoy numerous privileges, which include access to healthcare, educational opportunities, and a pathway to Australian citizenship. In this blog we’ll run you through the best route for couples who are striving to achieve Permanent Residency in Australia, making the process more accessible.
Partner Visa Subclasses 820 and 801
One of the most common and straightforward ways for couples to secure Permanent Residency in Australia is through the Partner Visa route. If one partner is an Australian citizen, a permanent resident, or an eligible New Zealand citizen, the other partner can apply for this visa.
- Temporary Visa (Subclass 820): This is the first step, where the applicant is granted a temporary visa to live in Australia.
- Permanent Visa (Subclass 801): After the temporary visa has been held and the conditions are met, the applicant is eligible for permanent residency.
This pathway is ideal for couples who have a solid relationship and can provide proof of their partnership, such as shared finances, joint travel history, and other supporting documents.
Skilled Migration Visas (Subclass 189, 190, and 491)
The Skilled Migration Visa allows couples to obtain Permanent Residency in Australia because the skills and qualifications tend to be in high demand. Such visas are available for any candidate who satisfies the needed criteria of Australia’s skilled occupation lists.
- Skilled Independent Visa Subclass 189: This visa is for highly skilled workers who do not require state or employer sponsorship.
- Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190): The applicants are sponsored by the government of a state or territory. The applicants must be ready to live and work in the sponsoring state.
- Skilled Work Regional Visa (Subclass 491): This particular visa is for the skilled workers who want to live and work in the regional areas. They can apply for Permanent Residency after three years.
For couples, qualifications of both partners will also be taken into account while considering their eligibility.
Business Innovation and Investment Visa (Subclass 188 and 888)
Individuals who run a business or have investment experience can seek the Business Innovation and Investment Visa route. This will enable you to start running a business or investing in Australia and then process for Permanent Residency.
- Temporary Visa (Subclass 188): It is the entry visa which enables an individual to operate a business or invest in Australia.
- Permanent Visa (Subclass 888): You can apply for permanent residency once you have completed the business or investment milestones.
It is a very good pathway for entrepreneurial couples wanting to contribute to Australia’s economy and secure their future in that country.
Employer-Sponsored Visas for Permanent Residency in Australia
Employer-sponsored visas are another reliable route for couples to obtain Permanent Residency in Australia. If one partner secures a job offer from an Australian employer, they may qualify for a visa under this category. The most common options are:
- Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (Subclass 482): This visa allows skilled workers to work in Australia for a specific employer. It can lead to permanent residency through the Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS).
- Employer Nomination Scheme Visa (Subclass 186): This is a direct pathway to permanent residency if the employer is willing to sponsor you for a permanent position.
For couples, the partner of the primary visa holder can usually work and live in Australia, making this route appealing for families.
Regional Migration Programs
Australia promotes settlement in the regional areas of the country with various regional migration programs. It is often one of the pathways to Permanent Residency in Australia and comes with incentives and fast-tracking.
- Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme Subclass 187: Although abolished, regional migration is still a concern for the government.
- Designated Area Migration Agreements (DAMA): These are customized agreements between the government and a regional area as a response to labor shortages of specific skills or qualifications.
Couples who are willing to live in regional Australia can enjoy lower living costs, a relaxed lifestyle, and extra points in the visa application process.
Family-Sponsored Visas
If you have relatives who are Australian citizens or permanent residents, family-sponsored visas may be an option for you. A relative can sponsor your visa, allowing you to live in Australia and eventually gain permanent residency. This is a good option for couples who have close family ties in Australia and are ready to offer support and sponsorship.
Studying in Australia
Most couples choose to study in Australia as a pathway to getting Permanent Residency. By taking courses that align with the needs of the country, you will get qualifications and experience that increase your chances of obtaining skilled migration visas.
After completing your studies, you may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485), which gives you the chance to gain experience in the country. This will lead you into Permanent Residency in Australia by skilled migration or employer sponsorship.
Tips for Couples Applying for Permanent Residency in Australia
- Plan Together: The couple should ensure that both are aware of what is required and work together in gathering all documents and meeting the deadlines.
- Choose the Right Pathway: Analyze your qualifications, skills, and long-term goals in order to choose the most suitable visa option.
- Seek Professional Help: Immigration laws are typically very technical. Engage a registered migration agent for the process to be simplified and to maximize the chances of success.
- Stay Updated: Visa rules and requirements typically change from time to time. Follow the current changes made to be compliant.
Getting permanent residency in Australia, whether as an individual or a couple, is worth all the adventure because it exposes one to immense opportunities. Depending on the mode, whether using a Partner Visa, Skilled Migration, and other pathways available, the right way to proceed would be meticulously planned and staying true to it.
With these strategies and resolutions, you and your partner can easily see a hopeful future in Australia. Let Australia be that place where you and your spouse build your dreams together. Join the journey toward Permanent Residency in Australia today, and take that first step towards a life of possibilities.