The easiest pathways to get an Australian PR include the Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189), State Nominated Visa (Subclass 190), and Employer Sponsored Visa (Subclass 186). These options are ideal for skilled workers who meet Australia’s eligibility criteria, such as age, English proficiency, and occupation demand.

Different qualifications, work experiences, and prospects in Australia lead people down many PR pathways. Each visa paper record is a unique route for permanent residence and a secured future in one of the world’s most liveable lands.

  1. Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)

This is a points-tested visa for highly skilled professionals with occupations listed on Australia's Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL). Applicants just need to meet the eligibility criteria and receive an invitation via SkillSelect. Once granted, this visa gives direct permanent residency in Australia.

Key Highlights:

  • No employer or state nomination required

  • Permanent residency upon grant

  • Permits the applicants to live and work anywhere in Australia

It’s one of the most competitive pathways, so a high points score (above 85) often improves your chances.

  1. Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)

The Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190) is a points-based permanent visa for skilled workers nominated by an Australian state or territory. Applicants' occupations must align with their needs. Once granted, it gives you immediate permanent residency in Australia.

Why choose this pathway:

  • Adds 5 extra points to your PR points total

  • Faster processing compared to Subclass 189

  • Applicants must agree to settle and stay in the state that nominated them.

The ideal case is for applicants willing to set up residence in a particular area, with a marked demand for their trades.

  1. Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa - (Subclass 491) 

The Subclass 491 visa is a points-tested temporary visa for skilled workers nominated or sponsored in regional Australia. It’s valid for 5 years and offers a pathway to permanent residency after 3 years.


Why it works:

  • Hikes up your points test by 15


  • Granted for 5 years, and enables permanent residence via the application of Subclass 191


  • Requires the applicants to be nominated by a state or territory government or sponsored by a relative who is suitably residing in the regional area.


Such work and residence in regional Australia for 3 years at a minimum will enable the applicant to gain a permanent residency status.

  1. Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186)

The Subclass 186 visa offers skilled workers a direct pathway to permanent residency in Australia through sponsorship by an approved Australian employer. It’s ideal for those who have the qualifications and experience required for a nominated role and wish to live and work in Australia permanently.

Here’s how it works:

  • Gain sponsorship and work in Australia on a TSS visa

  • After 2–3 years, transition to PR through Subclass 186

  • Must meet occupation, skills, and salary requirements

It’s a popular option for professionals in industries like healthcare, engineering, and IT.

  1. Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa (Subclass 482) → PR

Although the TSS visa is designed for temporary work, it often serves as a pathway to permanent residency through the Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186). With the right employer support and meeting eligibility criteria, skilled workers can transition to PR after gaining local work experience.

Why Consider This Visa?

  • Opportunity to live and work in Australia temporarily

  • Gain local work experience with an Australian employer

  • Pathway to PR after meeting eligibility and sponsorship requirements

  • Ideal for skilled workers in demand across various sectors

  1. Partner Visa (Subclass 820/801 or 309/100)

The Partner Visa (Subclass 820/801 or 309/100) is for those married to or in a de facto relationship with an Australian citizen or PR holder. It starts with a temporary visa and leads to permanent residency after the relationship is assessed over time.

Pathway breakdown:

  • Start with a temporary visa (820 or 309)

  • After two years of being in Australia with their partner holding a temporary visa, subclass 801 or 100, persons could be considered for the application of permanent residence.

  • No points test or skilled occupation required

It applies to both married couples and de facto ones if they meet the genuine relationship requirements of Australia.

General Requirements to Apply for Australia PR

While delving into the different visa opportunities, you must first understand the criteria that are most commonly shared across most avenues to permanent residence:

  • The age: Mostly 18-45 years

  • English Language Requirement: Demonstrated proficiency in English, typically with an IELTS score of 6.0 or an equivalent qualification.

  • Skills Assessment: An approved evaluation from the designated assessing body confirming your skills in the nominated occupation

  • Health & Character: Must meet Australian health standards and provide police clearance

  • Points Test: Minimum of 65 points required for most skilled visas

  • Nomination or Sponsorship: Required for employer or state-sponsored visas

Meeting these requirements is essential, but the right visa choice can significantly boost your chances of success.