Which Australian visa is right for you?

The information below is valid as of 28 August 2019

A successful visa application starts with you identifying the correct Australian visa type depending on your specific purpose. Even as a tourist or visitor, there are more than one visa streams that may apply to your own situation.

Information contained here serves as a guide only and is not to be taken as advice or instruction. Visit the Australian Department of Home Affairs for detailed information, or contact a registered migration agent.

There are at least 77 visa types available to people who want to visit, live, and work in Australia. Note that this list may change every year.

Visa categories

Some of the main visa categories are:

1. Tourist visas: These visas allow people to visit Australia for a holiday, for sightseeing, or to visit friends and family.
2. Business visas: These visas allow people to visit Australia for business-related activities, such as attending meetings and conferences or establishing business relationships.
3. Student visas: These visas allow people to study in Australia at an educational institution.
4. Skilled visas: These visas are for people who have skills in a particular occupation that are in demand in the Australian labor market and who want to live and work in Australia permanently.
5. Family visas: These visas allow people to join their family members who are already living in Australia.
6. Partner visas: These visas are for people who are in a relationship with an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen and want to live in Australia with their partner.
7. Work and holiday visas: These visas are for people who want to holiday in Australia and work to support themselves while they are here.
8. Working holiday visas: These visas are for young people who want to holiday in Australia and work to support themselves while they are here.

Each visa category has its own eligibility requirements and application process, and it is important for applicants to choose the visa that is most appropriate for their circumstances.

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It is illegal to give visa-related advice if they are not registered as a migration agent or immigration lawyer. If you need a Registered Migration Agent, go to https://portal.mara.gov.au/search-the-register-of-migration-agents/. We have also partnered with Finemarks Australia, who can assist with your visa requirements.

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Visitor visas

eVisitor (subclass 651)

Apply for this visa if your purpose in coming to Australia is for a holiday or cruise, visiting family or friends, volunteer work, attending an event, attending a conference or expo, or business visitor activities.

With this visa, you can stay in Australia for up to three months at each entry. You can even study or train for the duration of your stay. If, however, your main purpose of coming to Australia is studying, it would be more appropriate to apply for a student visa.

The business visitor stream allows you to explore business opportunities or employment negotiations in Australia. This does not allow you to work or sell goods and services.

You can apply for this visa online and applicants must hold a valid passport from any particular country.

You must apply from outside Australia.

There is no cost to apply for an eVisitor visa and most of the applications are processed in 1 day.

Electronic Travel Authority (subclass 601) (ETA)

This visa is very similar to eVisitor (subclass 651).

However, unlike eVisitor, you can apply for this visa if you hold a passport from these countries: Andorra, Austria, Belgium, Brunei, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong (SAR of China), Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Malta, Monaco, Norway, Portugal, Republic of San Marino, Singapore, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan (excluding official or diplomatic passports), The Netherlands, United Kingdom (British Citizen), United Kingdom (British National, overseas), United States of America, and Vatican City.

This visa is free and can be obtained from some travel agents. There is a charge of AUD20 if you apply online. Application processing time cannot be determined.

Transit visa (subclass 771)

This visa mainly applies to those coming to Australia by aircraft and leave within 72 hours via a non-military ship such as Maritime Crew visa holders.

It’s free to apply for this visa and the processing times vary from 7 days to 15 days for 90% of applications.

You do not need this type of visa if you are only transiting to Australia by aircraft with a connecting flight to another country, leave within eight hours and doesn’t need to clear immigration.

Visitor (subclass 600)

Visitor visa is granted to genuine visitors either as tourists, visiting relatives or for business reasons. You must have enough funds to support your stay while in Australia.

This visa is classified into six different streams:

Tourist stream (apply outside Australia) – Apply for this visa as a tourist, go on a cruise or visit friends and relatives with the intention of staying for 3, 6 or up to 12 months. Eligible parents of Australian citizens may be allowed to stay for an even longer period. Processing period usually takes 18-28 days and will cost you AUD140.

Tourist stream (apply in Australia) – You may apply for this visa if you are currently in Australia holding another visa that is about to expire. If granted, you may be able to stay for another 3, 6 or 12 months. The processing period also takes around 18-28 days. The processing fee is AUD 355.

Sponsored family stream – This visa is best for visiting relatives of Australian citizens or permanent residents. You must be sponsored by your relative who might be asked to pay a security bond. If granted, you will be allowed to stay up to 12 months. The cost of this visa is AUD140 which will take 50-69 days to process.

Business visitor stream – If you’re a business person intending to visit Australia for business reasons, the Visitor (subclass 600) will allow you to stay here for up to 3 months. You may be able to enter and exit Australia multiple times while the visa is valid.

Application costs AUD140 and you may have to wait for 9-16 days for the visa to be granted. Just remember that this visa does not allow you to work or sell goods and services during your stay.

Approved destination status stream – This visa stream is for applicants coming from China and are part of a group tour organised by an approved travel agent. You must remain with the group for the duration of your visit to Australia.

Not included in this group are those from special administrative regions (SARs) of China such as Hong Kong and Macau.

The visa fee is AUD140 and it will take just 1-2 days to process the application.

Frequent traveller stream – If you are a Chinese citizen (except for SARs) and you visit Australia frequently either for personal or business reasons, you may apply for a Visitor visa under this stream.

This visa can be granted to you for up to 10 years. However, you will only be allowed to stay in Australia for up to 3 months for each visit.

It will take only 5-7 days for the application to be processed at the cost of AUD1,045. You must provide biometrics within China before you are allowed to apply for this visa.

Work and Holiday visa (subclass 462)

If you are 18 to 30 years old and want to work in Australia to fund your holiday for up to 12 months, you may apply for the Work and Holiday visa (subclass 462). The application fee is AUD455 and you need to wait for 38-55 days if your visa is granted.

You may apply for renewal of this visa subject to recent changes in policy by the Australian government.

Working Holiday visa (subclass 417)

Working Holiday visa (subclass 417) is similar to subclass 462. This visa is granted to young adults 18 to 30 years old with the exception of citizens from Canada and Ireland whose age limit is extended to 35 years old. The processing period is between 23 and 77 days.

Studying and training visas

Student visa (subclass 500)

If you intend to attend a course of study in Australia, the Student visa (subclass 500) is the visa you should apply for. This visa allows you to travel in and out of Australia and the privilege to work up to 20 hours per week when the course starts.

Your visa allows you to stay in Australia for the period of your study not exceeding 5 years. However, primary school children enrolled in years 1-4 can only be granted a Student visa for a maximum of 2 years. There is also an option to apply for a new Student visa if you wish to continue studying in Australia.

If you are planning to include your partner and your or your dependent’s child to come to Australia, you must declare such information when you apply for the Student visa. You must do the declaration even if your partner and dependent will be joining you at a later period.

The cost of the visa application starts from AUD575 unless you are exempt. Processing time varies depending on the sector you fall under. Refer to the Immi website for more information.

Student Guardian visa (subclass 590)

If you are a guardian of a Student visa holder under 18 years old (or over 18 years old under special circumstances), you may apply for a Student Guardian visa. The visa identifies you as guardian if you are a parent or step-parent, grandparent or step-grandparent, sibling or step-sibling, aunt, uncle, step-aunt or step-uncle, niece, nephew or step-niece or step-nephew, partner, child or stepchild.

As a guardian, you must be 21 years old or over, must have enough fund to support yourself and the student during your stay. This includes being able to provide accommodation, welfare and other support.

This temporary visa allows you to travel in and out of Australia and stay for the duration specified in the visa grant letter. You may even undertake training or course of study for up to 3 months if you want.

It would cost you from AUD575 for the processing and you may have to wait between 88 days and 4 months to learn if your visa application is granted.

Training visa (subclass 407)

Training visa allows you to visit Australia to complete a professional development training program or workplace-based training to improve your skills for your current occupation, field of expertise, or area of tertiary study.

This temporary visa allows you to stay for up to 2 years. You can travel in and out of Australia while the visa is valid. This visa does not allow you any extension. If you wish to extend your stay in Australia, you may explore other visa types.

You can also include members of your family when you apply or add after an application is lodged but before a visa is granted. Family members included in the application will be subjected to the usual health and character requirements.

The cost of the main applicant is from AUD285. Each family member included in the application will also incur an additional charge. Refer to the Visa Pricing Estimator for the visa charges. Other costs that you need to consider are health checks, police certificates and biometrics.

Family and partner visas

Adoption visa (subclass 102)

This visa applies to an adopted child to migrate to Australia as permanent residents to be with their adoptive parent. The visa allows the recipients to access Medicare, study, and become Australian citizens when they become eligible.

The visa costs from AU2,470. Refer to the government’s Immigration and Citizenship page for detailed information.

Aged Dependent Relative visa (subclass 114)

If you are a single older person who relies on your relative living in Australia for financial support, you can apply for this visa to be able to move here permanently.

You will need to be sponsored by your relative and, if your visa application is approved, you will have most of the privileges of a permanent resident. You can enrol in Medicare, Australia’s public healthcare program. You will be able to work and study in Australia, sponsor your relatives to come to Australia and even apply for Australian citizenship, if eligible.

The visa costs AUD6,100 payable in two instalments plus other costs for health checks, police certificates and biometrics. Application for the visa is subject to capping and queueing hence, processing times for this visa cannot be determined.

You must be outside Australia when you apply and when your application is decided.

Aged Dependent Relative visa (subclass 838)

Aged Dependent Relative visa (subclass 838) is almost the same as subclass 114.

The only difference is that you must be in Australia, but not in the immigration clearance, when you apply and when your application is decided.

Aged Parent visa (subclass 804)

This visa allows you to stay permanently in Australia.

You may apply for this visa if you are old enough to receive an aged pension, have an eligible sponsor, must meet the balance-of-family test and must pass other requirements such as health and character tests. Your eligible sponsor must be able to provide you with an assurance of support.

An eligible sponsor has an eligible child who is a settled Australian citizen, Australian permanent resident or eligible New Zealand citizen.

This visa costs from AUD6,100 and payable in two instalments.

Carer visa (subclass 836)

The Carer visa entitles you to stay permanently in Australia and be a carer for your relative or a member of their family who has a long-term medical condition and doesn’t have reasonable access to care.

You have to be sponsored by your relative or their spouse or de facto partner for your first 2 years in Australia. You can include in your visa application members of your family subject to eligibility requirements.

You must be in Australia when you apply for the visa and when your application is granted. Processing cost is from AUD1,665.

If granted, you are entitled to benefits as would any other permanent resident.

Carer visa (subclass 116)

Carer visa (subclass 116) is identical to subclass 836 except that you must be outside Australia when you apply and when your application is decided.

Child visa (subclass 101)

If you are sponsoring a child under 18 years old and living outside Australia, you may apply for this visa. You must be the child’s parent or the child’s parent’s current de facto partner. You must be aged 18 or older. You need to be an Australian citizen or hold an Australian permanent visa or an eligible New Zealand citizen.

It is possible to sponsor even if you are no longer the partner of the child’s parent for as long as you have legal responsibility for the child.

You must be able to provide adequate accommodation and adequate financial support to meet the child’s living needs during their first 2 years in Australia

The sponsored child, to be eligible, must be under 18 year old (or 18-25 years old if a full-time student aged and financially dependent on the parent, or over 18 and unable to work due to a disability).

If successful, the sponsored child can migrate to Australia as permanent resident and eventually apply for Australian citizenship.

The cost is from AUD2,470 and it would take around 9 to 15 months to process.

The child must be outside Australia when the application is made and when a decision on the application comes out.

If you are an adoptive parent prior to becoming an Australian citizen or permanent resident or eligible New Zealand citizen, you may sponsor the child using this visa. However, if you have adopted the child after becoming an Australian citizen or permanent resident or eligible New Zealand citizen, the child will have to apply for an Adoption visa (subclass 102).

Child visa (subclass 802)

The features and requirements for this visa is the same as Child visa (subclass 101)

However, the child must already be in Australia when the application is made and when a decision on the application comes out.

Contributory Aged Parent (Temporary) Visa (subclass 884)

This visa allows a temporary stay for aged parents of a settled Australian citizen, Australian permanent resident or eligible New Zealand citizen.

Those who hold this kind of visa are given a temporary status of residency. Holders of Contributory Aged Parent (Temporary) Visa (subclass 884) are eligible to work and study in Australia, but they won’t receive support from the government.

Temporary visa holders may also apply for Contributory Aged Parent Visa (subclass 864).

As for the duration of stay, Visa subclass 884 allows a travel duration of 2 years. Meaning the visa holder can fly in and out of Australia for 2 years, from the date the visa was granted. Staying in Australia will not be possible, no extension or reapplying; only through applying for a different visa.

Applying for this type of visa permits the inclusion of family members during the application process. Those who are including family members have to pass the health and character standards. There are cases that even family members who aren’t applying must also meet the standards.

The cost of the basic application is AUD33,285. Additional charges are given for every family member added. It is paid via instalments. You must be in Australia when the application is made and until the decision has been made. Family members also applying, should be in Australia as well.

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Contributory Aged Parent Visa (subclass 864)

This is a permanent visa which allows aged parents of a settled Australian citizen, Australian permanent resident or eligible New Zealand citizen.

Those who hold this kind of visa are given the status of permanent resident. Holders of Contributory Aged Parent Visa (subclass 864) are eligible to work and study in Australia, and also enrol in Australia’s public health care scheme, Medicare. Once granted, the visa holder is entitled to sponsor relatives to move to Australia.

As for the duration of stay, a Contributory Aged Parent Visa (subclass 864) allows a travel duration of 5 years. Meaning the visa holder can fly in and out of Australia for 5 years, from the date the visa was granted. Returning to Australia after the 5 years travel duration can still be allowed for this visa holder, as long as they apply and be granted with the Resident Return status. Otherwise, can also apply for Australian citizenship.

Applying for this type of visa permits the inclusion of family members during the application process. Those who are including family members have to pass the health and character standards. There are cases that even family members who aren’t applying must also meet the standards.

The cost of the basic application is AUD47,755. Additional charges are given for every family member added. It is paid via instalments. You have to be in Australia when you make the application for this visa. You must remain in Australia when the decision has been made. Family members also applying, should be in Australia as well.

Contributory Parent (Temporary) Visa (subclass 173)

If you’re planning to stay a year or two in Australia and you have an eligible child who can sponsor you, then this may be the right Visa for you. Your eligible child must be a settled Australian citizen, Australian Permanent Resident, or Eligible New Zealand Citizen. In the case that your child is still under 18, you can have an eligible relative or community organization to sponsor you instead.

Aside from being sponsored, at least half of your children and stepchildren must be eligible children. This is to meet the balance-of-family test requirement. You can also meet this condition if you have more eligible children living in Australia than in any other single country.

Since Australia has one of the best health standards in the world, you must also pass their health and character requirement. Be prepared as they may require other family members to meet this condition as well. 

Once your visa is granted, you are permitted to live in Australia for up to 2 years. You may work and study in Australia, given that you will not receive government support for this. However, you can choose to enrol in Medicare – Australia’s public health care system. Keep in mind that this Visa type is not extendable or renewable. If you wish to stay permanently, you may want to consider applying for a Contributory Parent Visa (subclass 143) before your current visa expires.

This multiple entry visa costs AUD 31,930.

Contributory Parent Visa (subclass 143)

Are you planning to stay in Australia for more than 2 years? You may want to mull over getting this permanent visa that allows you to move to Australia. Let’s find out if you’re eligible for this visa type.

First, you must be sponsored by your eligible child. You may also be sponsored by an eligible relative or community organization if your child is still under the age of 18. You must also meet the balance-of-family test requirement. An assurance of support is also necessary to confirm that you will not rely on government assistance after the visa is granted.

The first three conditions mentioned does not need fulfilment if you’re applying as a retiree. However, you must still pass the health and character requirement. In addition to this, you must retain health insurance that covers your medical necessities and transport.

Since this is a permanent visa, it permits you to stay in Australia indefinitely as a permanent resident. Aside from being entitled to work and study in Australia, you may also sponsor your family members to come to Australia. You may also want to consider applying for Australian citizenship so you can leave and re-enter Australia freely after the initial 5-year travel program of this Visa type. 

This permanent visa costs AUD 47,755.

Dependent Child Visa (subclass 445)

If you currently hold a Partner (Provisional) Visa, Partner Visa, or Dependent Child Visa, then your child may apply for a Dependent Child Visa. Your Permanent Partner Visa application sponsor must sponsor your child who is under the age of 18 or over 18 years of age but is still financially dependent on you.

The Dependent Child Visa allows your child to move or stay in Australia up until the Department of Home Affairs decides on the status of your Partner Visa application. Once your child is granted this visa, he/she can work and study in Australia while being granted the privilege to travel in and out of it.

Aside from meeting Australia’s health and character requirement, the child must also have consent to travel to Australia. In addition to that, if the department agrees that the Visa is not in the best interests of the child, they have the choice of not granting the Visa.

Once the Dependent Child Visa is granted, it is your child’s obligation to meet all the visa conditions and comply with Australian laws. The visa costs AUD 2,655 for a single child. Each of the child’s siblings must undergo the application for this Visa separately. Keep in mind that miscellaneous expenses such as police certificates and health checks are not included in the visa cost.

New Zealand Citizen Family Relationship Visa (subclass 461)

This visa allows you to live, work, and study in Australia for five years, provided that you are a member of a family unit of a New Zealand citizen. Initial requirement is that you must not be a New Zealand Citizen. You must also meet the health and character requirement set by Australia. 

During your stay in Australia, you are personally liable for all your healthcare costs. This type of visa requires you to obtain adequate health insurance, and you may also be required to submit a copy of your health insurance policies to ensure that you are sufficiently covered.

Once this visa is granted, you are eligible to stay in Australia for five years. You are permitted to travel to and from Australia as many times as you like because this type of visa is granted with multiple entries. Keep in mind that your visa starts on the day it was granted to you, and you can’t stay longer in Australia once your visa expires.

You may apply for another New Zealand Citizen Family Relationship (Temporary) Visa (subclass 461), provided that you are still a member of the family unit of the New Zealand citizen you named in your first application and that the mentioned citizen is in Australia on a Special Category visa (subclass 444). If the New Zealand citizen is outside Australia, commit that the citizen will travel with you to Australia and be the holder of a Special Category visa (subclass 444) upon entry.

The cost for this type of visa is AUD 365. However, the visa costs AUD 185 for members of the family unit who is over the age of 18 and AUD 90 for those under the age of 18. Additional expenses for the health checks and police certificates are not included in the mentioned costs.
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Orphan Relative Visa (subclass 117)

The Orphan Relative Visa allows a child who is single to migrate to Australia as a permanent resident if their parents are dead, are unable to take care of them, or cannot be found. To be eligible, the child must first be sponsored by an eligible relative – sibling, step-sibling, grandparent, step-grandparent, aunt, step-aunt, uncle, and/or step-uncle.

Given that this visa is for orphans, the sponsored child must have no parent who can take care of them. If the parents have the capability to take care of their child but simply don’t want to, the visa will not be granted. The parents must either be dead, permanently incapable of caring for the child, or cannot be found. The child must also be under the age of 18 to be eligible.

Since the child is outside Australia upon application, the laws of the child’s home country must allow them to leave and migrate to Australia. The child must also have the written consent of the one that has the authority to decide where he/she can live, and pass the health and character requirements set by the Department of Home Affairs.

Upon grant of the Orphan Relative Visa, the child will be permitted to stay in Australia permanently. The child can work and study in Australia and will have the right to enrol in Australia’s public healthcare system called Medicare. If he/she has other siblings that want to apply, they may do so by applying separately.

This visa costs AUD1,630. Additional costs for health checks and police clearance may apply. The visa will come with a five-year travel facility, allowing the child to travel to and from Australia without needing a separate visa. However, once the travel facility expires, the child will need a Resident Return Visa to re-enter Australia.

This visa is similar to visa subclass 837. The only difference is that the child must be outside Australia when the application is made and when the Department of Home Affairs makes a decision.

Orphan Relative Visa (subclass 837)

This type of visa allows an orphan child who is in Australia to stay with a relative of theirs. Initially, the sponsored child must be below 18 years old to qualify for this visa. The child’s eligible sponsor must be his/her sibling, step-sibling, grandparent, step-grandparent, aunt, step-aunt, uncle, and/or step-uncle.

A child is considered an orphan if his/her parents are either dead, permanently incapable of caring for the child, or cannot be found. If the parents simply do not want to take care of the child, the visa will not be granted.

Since the orphan is already in Australia, he/she must hold a substantive visa. A substantive visa is any type of visa that allows the visa holder to stay in Australia temporarily. The visa that the orphan holds must not be a subclass 771 Transit visa, a bridging visa, or a criminal justice or enforcement visa.

The child must also present the written consent of the one that has the authority to decide where he/she can live. Once submitted, the orphan must meet the health and character requirements needed for this type of visa.

The Orphan Relative Visa will allow the child to stay, study, and work in Australia permanently. It costs AUD1,630 and already comes with a travel facility that has a validity of five years.

The travel facility permits the child to travel to and from Australia as often as he/she wants to. Once the travel facility expires, the child will need a Resident Return Visa to re-enter Australia.

This visa is similar to visa subclass 117. The only difference is that the child must be in Australia but not in immigration clearance when the application is made and when the Department of Home Affairs makes a decision.

Parent Visa (subclass 103)

For AUD6,415, the Parent Visa will allow you to stay in Australia permanently. You may work, study, and even enrol in Australia’s public health care scheme called Medicare.

The Parent Visa also comes with a five-year travel facility which will allow you to travel to and from Australia as many times as you want. However, once the travel facility expires, you’ll be required to get a Resident Return Visa to re-enter Australia.

First, you must be sponsored by your eligible child. In the instance that your child is still under the age of 18, an eligible relative or community organization may sponsor you instead.

Second, there is a balance-of-family test which you will pass if at least half of your children and step-children are eligible and you have more eligible children living in Australia than in any other particular country.

Third, you must present assurance of support, which will guarantee that you will not rely on government assistance once you enter Australia.

Keep in mind that if you apply as a retiree, these three requirements will not apply to you. However, you must still meet the health and character requirements set by the Department of Foreign Affairs. Adequate health insurance is also required.

The payment for the Parent Visa is divided into two instalments. The first instalment is paid upon application. The second instalment will be paid when the Department of Home Affairs asks you to. Keep in mind that additional costs may apply for health clearance and police certificates

Partner Visa (subclass 100 and 309)

If you are a partner or spouse of an Australian citizen, Australian permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen and you want to live in Australia, consider applying for a Partner Visa. Married applicants must verify if their marriage is valid under Australian law. For those in a de facto relationship, you must prove that you’re both in a genuine and continuing relationship. You are also required to meet health and character requirements.

You must first apply for a Partner (Provisional) Visa (subclass 100) which is a temporary visa before you can apply for the Partner (Migrant) Visa (subclass 309) which is a permanent visa. It will cost you AUD7,715 to apply for the combined temporary and permanent visas.

Once you’re granted the Partner (Provisional) Visa, you will be allowed to stay in Australia until your Partner (Migrant) Visa is released. You may need to wait for 15 to 24 months until a decision for the permanent visa is released. The visas come with a five-year travel facility.

Partner Visa (subclasses 820 and 801)

There are two kinds of Partner Visa – Temporary (subclass 820) and Permanent (subclass 801). In order to obtain the Permanent Partner Visa, you must first hold a valid Temporary Partner Visa. 

For you to be qualified for this type of Visa, you must be the spouse of a de facto partner of an Australian citizen, Australian permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen. Keep in mind that you can be in a relationship with someone of the same or different sex. For married applicants, your marriage must be valid under Australian law. De facto partners, on the other hand, may be required to confirm that they’re in this kind of relationship for at least twelve months. However, the twelve-month prerequisite is not needed if your partner holds a permanent humanitarian visa.

Most of the time, your partner will be the one to sponsor your visa. Please note that your sponsor when you apply for this type of visa must be your same sponsor for your entire stay. In addition to that, you must also pass Australia’s health and character requirement.

Upon grant of the Temporary Partner Visa, you’re allowed to stay, work, and study in Australia. This multiple-entry Visa comes with a free English language class of up to 510 hours. The class is provided by the Adult Migrant English Program.  You’re also given the option of enrolling in Medicare – Australia’s public health care system.

Moving forward, you can then apply for the Permanent Partner Visa (subclass 801). Simply prepare documents confirming that you’re still married or in a de facto relationship with your partner. Once you’re granted with the Permanent Partner Visa, you’re now permitted to stay in Australia indefinitely. Moreover, you’re also granted the privilege of sponsoring your family members.

The cost of applying for a Temporary Partner Visa is AUD 7,715. However, this amount already covers the cost of transitioning to Permanent Partner Visa. If you currently hold a Prospective Marriage Visa, the cost is reduced to AUD 1,285. If your Prospective Marriage Visa already expired, the cost would be AUD 1,630.

Prospective Marriage Visa (subclass 300)

The Prospective Marriage Visa allows you to stay up to nine months in Australia for the purpose of marrying your prospective spouse. Aside from being a multiple-entry visa, you are also granted permission to work and study during your entire stay.

Aside from meeting the health and character requirement of Australia, you must also be eighteen years or older to be eligible for the Prospective Marriage Visa. Your prospective spouse must be the one to sponsor you, and the visa period will start on the date that it is granted.

Once the visa is granted, you have the choice of applying for a Partner Visa after the marriage and before your Prospective Marriage Visa ends.

This type of visa costs AUD 7,715. This amount does not include various expenses in completing your requirements such as health checks and police certificates.

Remaining Relative Visa (subclass 835)

If your only remaining close relatives are in Australia, you may want to consider applying for a Remaining Relative Visa. For you to be eligible, you must be sponsored by an eligible parent or step-parent, sibling or step-sibling, or an eligible partner of your relative. 

Furthermore, you must not have other near relatives aside from your sponsor. Upon application, you will also be required to submit an assurance of support. This assurance will guarantee the Department of Home Affairs that you won’t be relying on government assistance once you enter Australia.

Australia has a high standard healthcare system. For it to maintain its standard, you are required to meet their health and character requirement. 

With the Remaining Relative Visa, you are granted to stay in Australia indefinitely. Aside from being permitted to work and study, you are also given the choice to enrol yourself in Medicare. You are also allowed to sponsor your relatives to come to Australia.

This visa type is multiple-entry during the initial five –year travel facility. Afterwards, you will be required to apply for a Resident Return Visa. To avoid this, you may want to consider applying for Australian citizenship and obtain an Australian passport.

Keep in mind that you must be in Australia during your application and once the Department of Home Affairs decided if you will be granted the Remaining Relative Visa.

It costs AUD 6,415 to obtain this type of visa. Payment is done in two instalments. Initial payment is given upon application, while the second payment will follow upon the advice of the department.

Remaining Relative Visa (subclass 115)

This visa type is almost identical to subclass 115. The only difference is that you, as an applicant must be outside Australia when you apply for this visa and when the Department of Home Affairs decide your application.

You need to be sponsored by an eligible relative to obtain a Remaining Relative Visa (subclass 115). This relative may be your parent or step-parent, sibling or step-sibling, or an eligible relative of your partner. However, this will only be applicable if the one sponsoring you is your only near relative.

Moreover, you will be required to submit an assurance of support to make certain that you won’t be relying on government assistance once your visa is granted. Not only are you required to pass the health requirement of Australia, but you must also meet the character requirement set by the government.

The Remaining Relative Visa (subclass 835) requires you to be in Australia during your application. The Remaining Relative Visa, on the other hand, requires you to be outside of Australia during your application.  

This type of visa allows you to stay in Australia indefinitely. Although you are permitted to work and study, newly arrived residents may have to wait before they can take advantage of certain payments and benefits provided by the government.

During the first years of your stay, you are given multiple-entry access to Australia. However, the travel validity expires after five years. If you still want to travel after the given travel facility, you may either apply for a Resident Return Visa or consider becoming an Australian citizen.

This type of visa costs AUD 6,415. Additional charges will apply for each family member that will apply with you. The payment will be divided into two instalments. The first payment will be charged upon application while the second payment will be charged upon the advice of the department. Keep in mind that additional expenses may occur for biometrics and health checks.

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Prospective Marriage Visa (subclass 300)

The Prospective Marriage Visa allows you to stay up to nine months in Australia for the purpose of marrying your prospective spouse. Aside from being a multiple-entry visa, you are also granted permission to work and study during your entire stay.

Aside from meeting the health and character requirement of Australia, you must also be eighteen years or older to be eligible for the Prospective Marriage Visa. Your prospective spouse must be the one to sponsor you, and the visa period will start on the date that it is granted.

Once the visa is granted, you have the choice of applying for a Partner Visa after the marriage and before your Prospective Marriage Visa ends.

This type of visa costs AUD 7,715. This amount does not include various expenses in completing your requirements such as health checks and police certificates.

Remaining Relative Visa (subclass 835)

If your only remaining close relatives are in Australia, you may want to consider applying for a Remaining Relative Visa. For you to be eligible, you must be sponsored by an eligible parent or step-parent, sibling or step-sibling, or an eligible partner of your relative. 

Furthermore, you must not have other near relative aside from your sponsor. Upon application, you will also be required to submit an assurance of support. This assurance will guarantee the Department of Home Affairs that you won’t be relying on government assistance once you enter Australia.

Australia has a high standard healthcare system. For it to maintain its standard, you are required to meet their health and character requirement. 

With the Remaining Relative Visa, you are granted to stay in Australia indefinitely. Aside from being permitted to work and study, you are also given the choice to enrol yourself in Medicare. You are also allowed to sponsor your relatives to come to Australia.

This visa type is multiple-entry during the initial five-year travel facility. Afterwards, you will be required to apply for a Resident Return Visa. To avoid this, you may want to consider applying for Australian citizenship and obtain an Australian passport.

Keep in mind that you must be in Australia during your application and once the Department of Home Affairs decided if you will be granted the Remaining Relative Visa.

It costs AUD 6,415 to obtain this type of visa. Payment is done in two instalments. Initial payment is given upon application, while the second payment will follow upon the advice of the department.

Remaining Relative Visa (subclass 115)

The Remaining Relative Visa (subclass 835) requires you to be in Australia during your application. The Remaining Relative Visa (subclass 115), on the other hand, requires you to be outside of Australia during your application.  

You need to be sponsored by an eligible relative to obtain a Remaining Relative Visa (subclass 115). This relative may be your parent or step-parent, sibling or step-sibling, or an eligible relative of your partner. However, this will only be applicable if the one sponsoring you is your only near relative.

Moreover, you will be required to submit an assurance of support to make certain that you won’t be relying on government assistance once your visa is granted. Not only are you required to pass the health requirement of Australia, but you must also meet the character requirement set by the government.

This type of visa allows you to stay in Australia indefinitely. Although you are permitted to work and study, newly arrived residents may have to wait before they can take advantage of certain payments and benefits provided by the government.

During the first years of your stay, you are given multiple-entry access to Australia. However, the travel validity expired after five years. If you still want to travel after the given travel facility, you may either apply for a Resident Return Visa or consider becoming an Australian citizen.

This type of visa costs AUD 6,415. Additional charges will apply for each family member that will apply with you. The payment will be divided into two instalments. The first payment will be charged upon application while the second payment will be charged upon the advice of the department. Keep in mind that additional expenses may occur for biometrics and health checks.

Sponsored Parent (Temporary) Visa (subclass 870)

If you have an approved Parent Sponsor, you may want to consider applying for a Sponsored Parent (Temporary) Visa (subclass 870). Initially, you must be the biological, adoptive, step-parent, or parent-in-law of the mentioned Parent Sponsor. A set of health and character requirements must also be met, one of which is maintaining adequate health insurance.

With this type of visa, you will be granted permission to reunite with your children and grandchildren. Since the visa comes with multiple-entry access, you are allowed to travel to and from Australia for three to five years. Keep in mind that you cannot work in Australia during your stay.

You are given the option of staying in Australia for up to three or five years, depending on how much you will pay. Fortunately, you may be granted another Sponsored Parent (Temporary) Visa so long as your cumulative stay does not exceed ten years.

This visa costs AUD 5,000 for three-year validity and AUD 10,000 for five-year validity. Payment is made in two instalments. An initial fee is paid upon application, and the second fee is paid upon the advice of the department. Additional expenses will be applied for health checks and biometrics.

Working and skilled visas

Business Innovation and Investment (Permanent) Visa (subclass 888)

The Business Innovation and Investment (Permanent) Visa (subclass 888) is divided into five different streams – Business Innovation stream, Investor stream, Significant Investor stream, Premium Investor stream, and Entrepreneur stream. One important requirement of this visa is that an applicant must hold a relevant stream of the subclass 188 visa, or a subclass 444 (Special Category) visa, or a subclass 457 (Business Long Stay) visa. This type of visa, no matter which stream you are under, costs AUD 2,590 to apply for.

The first stream, which is the Business Innovation stream, allows you to stay in Australia permanently. Initially, you must meet certain business requirements such as owning and managing a business in Australia and having an annual business turnover of AUD 300,000. A nomination from an Australian state or territory government agency is also required. 

If you have held your designated investment amounting to at least AUD 1.5 million for at least four years, then you might be eligible for the Business Innovation and Investment (Permanent) Visa under the Investor stream. Once you have this visa, you will be permitted to stay, work, and study in Australia permanently. For you to be granted this type of visa, you must have lived in Australia for at least two to four years.   

The Significant Investor stream, on the other hand, requires that you held your complying investment of AUD 5 million for at least four years. A current nomination from an Australian state, territory government agency, or CEO of Austrade is also needed. It is also mandatory to pass certain residence, health, and character requirements. Upon grant of this visa, you are given permission to stay, work, and study in Australia permanently. You may also consider applying for Australian citizenship. 

If you have held your complying investment of AUD 15 million for the whole duration of your subclass 188 visa, then you may be eligible to apply for the subclass 888 visa under the Premium Investor stream. Aside from having functional English and meeting the health and character requirements, you must also have a current nomination from the CEO of Austrade. Once you have this visa, you are authorized to work, study, and stay in Australia permanently. 

The last type of stream is the Entrepreneur stream, which requires you to have a Business Innovation and Investment (Provisional) Visa (subclass 188) under the Entrepreneur stream. A current nomination from an Australian state or territory government agency is required for this type of visa stream. You must also prove that you have a successful record of entrepreneurial activities during your stay in Australia. You must also pass Australia’s health and character requirements. This visa stream will allow you to stay in Australia indefinitely so you could proceed with your business activities.

Business Innovation and Investment (Provisional) Visa (subclass 188)

This type of visa allows you to stay, own, and manage a business in Australia for four to six years, depending on which stream you’re under. To be eligible for a Business Innovation and Investment (Provisional) Visa, you must submit an expression of interest in SkillSelect. A nomination by an Australian state, territory government agency, or CEO of Austrade is also required. 

The Business Innovation stream is perfect for business people that are planning to stay in Australia for not more than four years and three months. Aside from operating a new or existing business in Australia, you also need a nomination from an Australian State or territory government agency. This type of provisional visa costs AUD 5,375.

Once your visa expires, you may apply for an extension of up to 2 more years under the Business Innovation Extension stream. An additional fee of at least AUD 645 will be applied.

If you have an investment amounting to at least AUD 1.5 million, you may want to consider applying under the Investor stream. This type of visa stream will allow you to maintain your business and investment activities in Australia for up to four years and three months. It will cost you AUD 5,375 to apply for this visa.

Investors with at least AUD 5 million worth of investment are also eligible for this visa under the Significant Investor stream. For AUD 7,880, you can apply for this visa that will permit you to stay and maintain your business activities in Australia for up to four years and three months.

You may extend your stay for up to four more years, upon expiration of your visa, under the Significant Investor Extension stream. This will cost you at least AUD 645.

Business Owner Visa (subclass 890)

As someone who runs a business in Australia, you may want to consider applying for a Business Owner Visa. This type of visa will allow you to stay in Australia permanently, and if eligible, become an Australian citizen.

Initially, you must hold an eligible visa for you to be qualified. Aside from owning and managing your own business, there are a few more business requirements you need to meet such as having at least two full-time employees. You become a permanent resident of Australia upon the grant of visa.

The Business Owner Visa costs AUD 2,450.

Business Talent (Permanent) Visa (subclass 132)

Are you planning to launch a new or develop an existing business in Australia? If that is the case, you may choose to apply for a Business Talent (Permanent) Visa. This visa is classified into two streams – Significant Business History stream and Venture Capital Entrepreneur stream. Initially, you must have the required funding or asset to be eligible. A nomination by an Australian state or territory government agency is also needed. Moreover, you must be invited to apply for this visa.

The Significant Business History stream is for business owners that have a lawfully acquired net value of at least AUD 1.5 million. For at least two of the four fiscal years immediately before you are invited to apply, you must have an annual business turnover of at least AUD 3 million and the total of your net asset from your ownership interest must be at least AUD 400,000. This type of visa stream costs AUD 7,855 and allows you to stay in Australia permanently upon grant. You may also travel to and from Australia for up to five years. Once the given travel facility expires, you will be required to apply for a Resident Return Visa to re-enter.

If you have sourced venture capital funding from a member of the Australian Investment Council, you may be eligible for the Business Talent (Permanent) Visa under the Venture Capital Entrepreneur stream. Keep in mind that the funding must be at least AUD 1 million. Moreover, the approved funding must be used for business development, commercialization of a product, or early phase business start-up in Australia. For the cost of AUD 7,855, the visa will permit you to stay in Australia permanently and are given the choice of applying for Australian citizenship if you are eligible.

Distinguished Talent Visa (subclass 124)

The Distinguished Talent Visa costs AUD 4,110 and allows you to stay in Australia permanently.  To be eligible, you must have an internationally recognized record of outstanding success for at least two years in a profession, sport, arts, or academia and research. For your achievements to be considered as outstanding, you must have superior abilities over others in your field and have proof of sustained accomplishments that is unlikely to diminish in the future.

You may be able to apply for this type of visa if you’re committing yourself to contribute to the nation’s economic, social, cultural, sports, artistic, or academic aspect. Keep in mind that you must also be able to find work in your field in Australia. Moreover, you must be nominated by an Australian citizen, permanent resident, eligible New Zealand citizen, or an Australian organization with a national reputation in the same field as you. You must also meet certain health and character requirements.

Once you are granted the Distinguished Talent Visa, you are permitted to work, study, and stay in Australia permanently. You are also given the choice to enrol in Medicare and to apply for citizenship if you’re eligible. Although this is a permanent visa, its multiple-entry facility is only valid for up to five years. Once the travel facility expires, you are required to apply for a Resident Return Visa to re-enter Australia.

Employer Nomination Scheme Visa (subclass 186)

Through the nomination of your employer, you may be eligible for an Employer Nomination Scheme Visa. This type of visa will allow you to stay and work permanently in Australia for the cost of AUD 4,045. This type of visa is classified into three streams – Direct Entry stream, Labor Agreement stream, and Temporary Residence Transition stream. You need to have the required set of skills for the job you’re applying for to be eligible. Furthermore, you must meet certain health and character requirements for your application to push through.

The first type of stream, which is the Direct Entry stream, allows you to live and work in Australia permanently as a skilled worker. Initially, your job must be on the relevant list of eligible occupations set by Australia. You must also have at least three years of relevant work experience in your declared field. Normally, you must be under 45 years of age when you apply. However, you are exempted from age requirement if you’re nominated as an academic by a university in Australia or as a scientist or researcher by an Australian scientific government agency. You are also exempted if you currently hold a Special Category Visa or New Zealand Citizen’s Family Member Visa, and have worked for at least two years for the employer who nominated you.

The Labor Agreement stream, on the other hand, requires that your employer be a party to a labour agreement. In addition to that, you must have suitable English language skills and work experience for your occupation. The Department of Home Affairs may require you to get a skill assessment if needed. 

If you hold a 457, TSS or related bridging visa A, B, or C, then you may be able to apply under the Temporary Residence Transition stream. Aside from having the required skills needed to perform your job, you are also required to have worked full-time for the employer that nominated you for at least three years.

Investor Visa (subclass 891)

For the cost of AUD 2,450, the Investor Visa allows investors to stay in Australia permanently. You are also given the choice to become an Australian citizen if you’re eligible. The multiple-entry visa comes with a travel facility valid for five years. Once the travel facility expires, you will be required to apply for a Resident Return Visa to re-enter.

To be eligible, you must hold an Investor (Provisional) Visa (subclass 162), during which you are required to have stayed in Australia for at least an accumulated two years. Aside from meeting the health and character requirements set by the Department of Home Affairs, you must also meet a few business requirements. First, you must have held your designated investment of at least AUD 1.5 million for at least four years. A genuine commitment to continue doing business in Australia is also needed. Keep in mind that you must have never been involved in any unacceptable or illegitimate business activities to be eligible for this type of visa.

Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme Visa (Subclass 187)

The Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme Visa is divided into two streams – Direct Entry stream and Temporary Residence Transition stream. Initially, you need to be nominated by an approved Australian employer for a job in regional Australia for you to be eligible. You must then have competent English, along with credentials proving that you’re qualified for the job. You must also be under the age of 45 and pass the health and character requirements set by the Department of Home Affairs. This type of visa costs AUD 4,045 and will allow you to stay and work in Australia permanently.

For the Temporary Residence Transition stream, you must have worked for your employer full-time for at least three years to be qualified. You must also be a holder of a subclass 457 visa, subclass 482 (TSS) visa, or bridging visa A, B, or C. Keep in mind that the bridging visa must be the visa granted once your subclass 457 or 482 visa expired.

If you’re not eligible for the Temporary Residence Transition stream, you may consider applying under the Direct Entry stream. However, your job must be listed under the relevant skilled occupations released by the government of Australia. Once the nomination of your employer is approved, apply for the visa within six months. 

This is a multiple-entry visa, and a travel facility of five years is given once the visa is granted. Once the travel facility expires, you will need a Resident Return Visa to re-enter Australia.

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Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)

The Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) is a type of visa offered by the Australian government that allows skilled workers to live and work in Australia permanently. This visa is for those who have skills in a particular occupation that is in demand in the Australian labor market and who are not sponsored by an employer or nominated by a state or territory government.

Eligibility

The following eligibility requirements must be met to qualify for a Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189):

1. Meet the age, English language, and health requirements set by the Australian government.
2. Have a positive skills assessment in an occupation on the Skilled Occupation List.
3. Score at least 65 points on the points test, which is used to assess the applicant’s suitability for a skilled visa based on various factors such as age, education, work experience, and other qualifications.
4. Lodge an Expression of Interest (EOI) through the Department of Home Affairs SkillSelect system, which is used to manage applications for skilled visas.

Applicants who are successful in their Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) application will be granted a permanent visa allowing them to live and work in Australia indefinitely. They will also be able to study, travel, and access certain social security benefits.

Points-tested stream

As a skilled worker, the Department of Home Affairs may invite you to apply for the Skilled Independent Visa under the Points-tested stream. Aside from being under the age of 45, you are also required to submit a copy of your skills assessment.

The score that you receive upon submission of your Expression of Interest in SkillSelect must be at least 65 points.

You must also meet the skill, health, and character requirements to be eligible. This type of visa stream costs AUD 4,045 and includes a travel facility of five years. Once the travel facility expires, you will need a Resident Return Visa to re-enter Australia.

New Zealand stream

If you’re a holder of the New Zealand Special Category (subclass 444) visa, you may be able to qualify to the Skilled Independent Visa under the New Zealand stream.

Initially, you must have been living in Australia for the last five years and have started living in Australia on or before 19 February 2016.

Aside from meeting the health and character requirements, you must also pass the income requirement for this type of visa stream. Once granted, this multiple-entry visa comes with a five-year travel facility.

The cost of this visa is AUD 4,045 and is paid in two installments. The first installment, amounting to 20% of the visa application fee, will be charged upon application. The remaining 80% must be paid before the Department of Home Affairs releases the visa.

Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)

This type of visa is for skilled workers who want to work and stay in Australia permanently. First, you must submit an Expression of Interest in SkillSelect. Through this, state and territory governments may nominate you. Once nominated, the Department of Home Affairs will invite you to apply.

To be eligible for the Skilled Nominated Visa, you must score at least 65 points upon assessment of your application. Furthermore, you must submit a copy of your skills assessment and have competent English.

If you’re a medical practitioner, you may submit your registration with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency instead of a skills assessment. If you’re a legal practitioner, your admission to practice law in a relevant state or territory will suffice.

Your profession must also be listed under the eligible skilled occupations released by the government. An age limit of below 45 years is also implemented.

This multiple-entry type of visa costs AUD 4,045. Additional fees for health checks and police certificates may be applied. Keep in mind that if you apply while in Australia, you will be required to present a substantive visa or a bridging visa A, B, or C.

The travel facility that comes with this visa is valid for five years. Upon expiration, you will need a Resident Return Visa to re-enter.

Skilled-Recognised Graduate Visa (Subclass 476)

The Skilled-Recognised Graduate Visa, which costs AUD 405, allows fresh engineering graduates to stay in Australia for up to eighteen months.

Initially, you must have completed an engineering degree in the last two years. This degree could be a bachelor’s degree, master’s degree, doctoral degree, or postgraduate diploma. Keep in mind that this degree would only be valid if you studied at an institution or college that is accredited under the Washington Accord.

There are also several institutions and universities recognized by the Department of Home Affairs that will make your degree eligible for this type of visa.

Aside from meeting the age requirement of being below 31 years of age, you must also meet the health and character requirements. If you do not hold a valid passport from the United Kingdom, United States of America, Canada, New Zealand, or the Republic of Ireland, then you will be required to submit proof of English proficiency.

Verification from IELTS, TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, OET, and C1 Advanced Test may be accepted depending on your score. Keep in mind that you must not have been a holder of the Temporary Graduate Visa before, or your application will not be valid.

This type of visa is non-renewable. However, you can travel to and from Australia as many times as you want while the visa is still valid. If you want to stay longer than eighteen months, you will need to apply for another visa upon expiration of your Skilled-Recognised Graduate Visa.

Skilled Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 489)

Effective 16 November 2019, visa subclass 489 is going to be replaced by visa Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491).

The Skilled Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 489) allows skilled workers to live and work in regional Australia. This type of visa is subdivided into three pathways – Invited Pathway, Extended Stay Pathway, and Subsequent Entry Pathway. Upon grant of this multiple-entry visa, you may consider applying for permanent residency if you’re eligible.

Invited Pathway

If you’re under the age of 45 and you’re planning to apply for this type of visa under the Invited Pathway, submit an Expression of Interest in SkillSelect. Remember to indicate if an eligible relative will sponsor you or if you want a nomination from a state or territory government. Upon submission of EOI, you will be scored based on the claims you’ve made.

If you achieve at least 65 points, state or territory government agencies might nominate you. You must also have a suitable skills assessment and competent English to be eligible. Visa under this type of pathway is valid for four years from the date your visa is granted and costs AUD 4,045.

Extended Stay Pathway

The Extended Stay Pathway requires you to be the holder of a subclass 475, 487, 495, or 496 visa. Although there is no age restriction for this pathway, you must still meet health and character requirements to be eligible. This visa permits you to stay in Australia for four years from the date your initial visa was granted for the cost of AUD 360.

Subsequent Entry Pathway

You may also apply for the Skilled Regional (Provisional) Visa under the Subsequent Entry Pathway if you’re a member of the family unit of a subclass 475, 487, 489, 495, or 496 visa holder. This visa will cost you AUD 4,045. However, if you have less than functional English fluency, you will be asked to pay an additional AUD 4,890.

Skilled Regional Visa (Subclass 887)

You may be eligible for a Skilled Regional Visa if you’re currently in Australia and holds an eligible visa – subclass 489, 495, 496, 475, 487 visa, or bridging visa A or B after application for a subclass 489, 495, or 487 visa. There is also a residence requirement of living for at least two years and working full-time for at least one year in a specific regional area of Australia. Since Australia’s health care is one of the best in the world, you must also meet the health and character requirements set by the Department of Home Affairs.

Being a holder of the Skilled Regional Visa allows you to stay, work, and study in Australia permanently. You may also enrol in Medicare, which is their public health care scheme. The visa comes with a travel facility that allows you to travel in and out of Australia for five years. Once the travel facility expires, you will need a Resident Return Visa to re-enter. If eligible, you may also apply for Australian citizenship.

This visa costs AUD 415, not including various expenses for health and police checks. If you have less than functional English fluency, you may be charged an additional AUD 4,890. 

State or Territory Sponsored Business Owner Visa (Subclass 892)

If you own or manage a business in Australia, you may be qualified for a State or Territory Sponsored Business Owner Visa. To be eligible, you must be the holder of an eligible visa – subclass 160, 161, 162, 163, 164, or 165 visa.

There is a residence requirement where you must have lived in Australia holding your eligible visa for at least one year in the two years immediately before you apply. During the mentioned period of two years, you must have owned and managed a business in Australia.

If you have left Australia for more than a month and a half in total, keep in mind that you have to justify how you managed the business while you were away. Aside from meeting some business and employee requirements, you must also be sponsored by the regional authority in the area where your business is located.

The State or Territory Sponsored Business Owner Visa allows you to stay, work, and study in Australia permanently. You can travel in and out of Australia for five years should you wish to. After five years, you may still re-enter Australia if you have a Resident Return Visa. 

Aside from the expenses for health checks and biometrics, you will also pay an application fee of AUD 2,450. Keep in mind that applicants with less than functional English fluency may be asked to pay a second instalment amounting to AUD 4,890.

State or Territory Sponsored Investor Visa (Subclass 893)

You may consider applying for this type of visa if you currently hold a State or Territory Sponsored Investor (Provisional) Visa. Aside from the residence requirement of at least two years, there are a few business requirements that you must meet as well.

First, your designated investment of at least AUD 750,000 must have remained in your name for at least four years. Next, you must commit yourself in continuing your business and investment activities and Australia. Finally, you must have never been involved in any unacceptable business activities.

You must also meet the health and character requirements set by the Department of Home Affairs. To be qualified, the regional authority in the area you have lived in for at least two years must sponsor you.

Once the visa is granted, you are permitted to stay and work in Australia permanently. You are also given the privilege to sponsor your relatives who want to go to Australia. Keep in mind that you may have to wait before you can access particular government benefits.

This multiple-entry visa comes with a five-year travel facility, allowing you to travel in and out of Australia easily. Once the travel facility expires, you will need a Resident Return Visa to re-enter. If you’re eligible, you may choose to apply for Australian citizenship as well.

The State or Territory Sponsored Investor Visa costs AUD 2,450. However, you may have to pay an additional fee of AUD 4,890 as a second instalment if you have less than functional English fluency. Additional fees for police clearance and health checks may be charged.

Temporary Activity Visa (subclass 408)

The Temporary Activity Visa allows you to stay in Australia temporarily to complete a specific work or project. Initially, you need to be sponsored or supported to qualify for this type of visa. You must also pass the health and character requirement set by the Department of Home Affairs. 

This visa costs AUD310 and has ten classifications – Special Program, Religious Work, Research Activities, Invited for Other Social and Cultural Activity, Sporting Activities, Entertainment Activities, Superyacht Crew, Exchange Arrangements, Australian Government Endorsed Events, and Domestic Work for Executives. You need to have the set of skills needed to perform the activity you’re assigned to do.

The Temporary Activity Visa under the Special Program allows you to take part in an approved special program that focuses on exchange of culture, knowledge, and social experiences. Frequent programs for this visa classification are youth exchange, gap year school volunteering, and community programs. Once granted, you will be permitted to stay in Australia with a member of your family unit for up to 12 months.

If you’ll be working full-time to serve a religious institution in Australia, apply under the Religious Work classification. This classification allows you to stay in Australia for up to 2 years. Keep in mind that upon application, the Department of Home Affairs will evaluate how genuine is your intention to stay temporarily. 

If your purpose is to observe or take part in a research project at a tertiary or research institution in Australia, you may apply for this visa under the Research Activities classification. Observing or taking part in the research usually lasts for up to 12 months.

With this visa, you and your family can stay here for up to 2 years. 

As a researcher, you are either an academic who has made significant achievements in your field or employed at a tertiary institution.

As a student or recent graduate of an overseas educational institution, you may apply for this visa if you have been invited to undertake research related to your field of study at an Australian tertiary or research institution. In the case of a research student who has not yet graduated, you must be undertaking the research to meet the requirements for your overseas qualification.

You will be permitted to stay for up to 2 years in Australia if you apply under the Sporting Activities classification. You will also be allowed to coach, play, and adjudicate an Australian team. You may also do training with a sporting organization. If you are invited to a sporting event, apply under the Invited for Other Social and Cultural Activity classification instead. This classification allows you to stay up to 3 months in Australia to take part in a community-based event.

Working for the entertainment industry will make you eligible to apply under the Entertainment Activities classification. You will be permitted to stay in Australia for up to 2 years to work on a film, television, or live productions. This applies whether you’re a performer, production staff, or support staff.

The Superyacht Crew classification is for crew members of a superyacht. Once approved, you will be allowed to stay in Australia for up to 12 months. For the Australian Government Endorsed Events classification, you are permitted to stay in Australia for the duration of the event you are participating in. The event must be endorsed by the Australian Government. If you are the organizer of the event, you will be allowed to stay up to 4 years.

Both the Exchange Arrangements classification and Domestic Work for Executives classification allow you to stay in Australia for up to two years. The Exchange Arrangements classification is for those taking part in a staff exchange with an Australian organization. On the other hand, the Domestic Work for Executives classification is for full-time domestic helpers working in the household of senior foreign executives.

Temporary Work (International Relations) Visa (subclass 403)

If your work is associated with improving Australia’s international relations, you may be eligible to apply for a Temporary Work (International Relations) Visa. This visa is subdivided into six streams – Government Agreement, Foreign Government Agency, Domestic Worker (Diplomatic or Consular), Privileges and Immunities, Seasonal Worker Program, and Pacific Labour Scheme. Each stream costs AUD310, except for the Privileges and Immunities stream which is free.

The Government Agreement stream allows you to work in Australia for up to 2 years. To be eligible, you must be employed under the terms and conditions of a bilateral agreement between the government of Australia and of another country. 

If you are employed to represent a foreign government agency, you may apply under the Foreign Government Agency stream. You are also eligible to submit an application if you’re a foreign language teacher in an Australian school and is employed by a foreign government. The Department of Home Affairs will indicate how long you can stay in Australia upon the grant of visa, which may be up to 4 years.

Doing full-time domestic work for someone who holds a Diplomatic (Temporary) Visa will make you eligible to apply under the Domestic Worker (Diplomatic or Consular) stream. The initial visa granted will be valid for up to 12 months and the second visa will be valid for the duration of your employer’s posting.

Apply under the Privileges and Immunities stream if you have, or is expecting to have, privileges and immunities under relevant legislation. This also applies if you are working as an international representative in Australia. Make sure to include a letter of support from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade in your application. The Department of Home Affairs will specify how long can you stay in Australia upon the grant of visa.

If you are invited by an approved Temporary Activities Sponsor to take part in a Seasonal Worker Program, apply under the Season Worker Program stream. The Department of Home Affairs will dictate how long can you stay in Australia, which may be up to 9 months.

The last stream, which is the Pacific Labour Scheme stream, allows you to take part in the Pacific Labour Scheme program through the endorsement of DFAT. You must also be invited by an approved Temporary Activities sponsor. Upon grant, the Department of Home Affairs will specify how long can you stay in Australia, which may be up to 3 years.

Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485)

The Temporary Graduate Visa allows you to work, study, and stay in Australia after finishing your studies there. Initially, you must have a recent qualification in a CRICOS-registered course to be eligible for this type of visa. You must also hold an eligible visa and is below 50 years old. This type of visa is divided into two streams – The Graduate Work stream and Post-Study Work Stream. Both streams cost AUD1,650.

The Graduate Work Stream allows you to stay for up to 18 months. To qualify, you must have the skills and ability needed for a job on the skilled occupation list. On the other hand, the Post-Study Work Stream requires you to have a recent degree from an Australian institution. Upon grant, you will be permitted to stay in Australia for 2 to 4 years. Keep in mind that these streams require you to pass a health and character requirement.

Temporary Work (Short Stay Specialist) Visa (subclass 400)

Having a highly specialized skill, knowledge, or experience that can help the business industry of Australia may make you eligible for the Temporary Work (Short Stay Specialist) Visa. The skills you have cannot be reasonably found in the Australian labour market and your work must be completed within 6 months or less. 

The Department of Home Affairs will specify how long can you stay in Australia, which may be up to 6 months. Keep in mind that if you’re staying for more than 3 months, you must be able to defend why you need to stay that long. Your employer must also provide a copy of your contract or offer. Aside from the health certificates and biometric fees, it will cost you AUD310 to apply for this visa.

Temporary Skill Shortage visa (subclass 482)

Refugee and humanitarian visas

• Global Special Humanitarian (subclass 202)
• Protection visa (subclass 866)
• Refugee visas (subclass 200, 201, 203 and 204)
• Temporary Protection visa (subclass 785)
• Safe Haven Enterprise visa (subclass 790)

Other visas

• Bridging visa A – BVA – (subclass 010)
• Bridging visa B – BVB – (subclass 020)
• Bridging visa C – BVC – (subclass 030)
• Bridging visa E – BVE – (subclass 050 and 051)
• Crew Travel Authority visa (subclass 942)
• Former Resident visa (subclass 151)
• Maritime Crew visa (subclass 988)
• Medical Treatment visa (subclass 602)
• Resident Return visa (subclass 155 157)
• Special Category visa (subclass 444)
• Special Purpose visa
• Retirement visa (subclass 410)
• Investor Retirement visa (subclass 405)
• Confirmatory (Residence) visa (subclass 808)

Final words

For most visa applications, you must meet Australia’s health requirement as well as character requirement.

Make sure you fill in the application form accurately and completely to avoid delay in the processing. To start an online application on your own, login to ImmiAccount and complete the form.

If you are not confident in lodging a visa application, consider using the services of a registered migration agent.

We recommend getting travel insurance and/or health insurance to limit your financial liability if an unfortunate thing happens while you are in Australia on a temporary status.

You must also have enough money to support yourself while in Australia to last until your departure.

Finally, make sure you have a passport that will remain valid for at least six months when a visa is granted.

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