Various Pathways to Immigration to Australia in 2026
Australia offers multiple immigration pathways for skilled professionals, students, families, and entrepreneurs. Understanding these pathways is crucial for choosing the right route to Australian permanent residency.
Overview of Immigration Pathways
Skilled Migration
Points-based system for qualified professionals with in-demand skills.
Student to PR
Study in Australia and transition to permanent residency through skilled pathways.
Family Sponsorship
Spouse, partner, parent, or child sponsorship by Australian citizens/PR holders.
Business & Investment
For entrepreneurs and investors establishing businesses in Australia.
Skilled Migration Visas
| Visa Subclass | Type | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| 189 | Skilled Independent | No sponsorship needed, live anywhere |
| 190 | Skilled Nominated | State sponsorship, +5 points, commit to state 2 years |
| 491 | Skilled Work Regional | Regional sponsorship, +15 points, 5-year pathway to PR |
| 186 | Employer Nomination | Direct PR through employer sponsorship |
| 482 | TSS (Temporary) | 2-4 year work visa, can lead to 186 |
Points System
Need minimum 65 points to apply (85-90+ for competitive occupations)
- Age 25-32: 30 points (maximum)
- English (PTE 79+ each): 20 points
- Work Experience (8+ years): 20 points
- Education (Bachelor): 15 points
- State Nomination: 5 points (190) or 15 points (491)
- Partner Skills: 10 points
- Professional Year: 5 points
Student to PR Pathway
Most Popular Route for Indians
- Study in Australia (2 years minimum for 485 visa eligibility)
- Graduate with Australian qualification (Bachelor/Master in demand field)
- Apply for Temporary Graduate Visa (485) - 2-4 years post-study work rights
- Gain Australian work experience (1-3 years adds 5-15 points)
- Improve English to PTE 79+ (20 points vs 10 points)
- Complete Professional Year if eligible (IT, Accounting, Engineering) - 5 points
- Apply for skilled visa 189/190/491 with increased points
Benefits of Student Pathway
- Australian qualification adds 15-20 points
- Regional study adds 5 points
- Australian work experience (1+ years) adds 5-20 points
- Better understanding of Australian job market
- Network building opportunities
Employer Sponsorship
| Visa | Duration | PR Pathway |
|---|---|---|
| 482 TSS Short-term | 2 years | No direct PR pathway |
| 482 TSS Medium-term | 4 years | After 3 years → 186 PR |
| 186 Direct Entry | Permanent | Immediate PR |
Family Sponsorship
Partner Visas
- Subclass 820/801: Onshore partner visa (temporary → permanent)
- Subclass 309/100: Offshore partner visa
- Processing Time: 24-36 months
- Cost: ~AUD 8,850
Parent Visas
- Subclass 103: Parent visa (10-30 year queue)
- Subclass 143: Contributory parent (2-4 years, AUD 50,000+)
Business & Investment Visas
| Visa | Requirement |
|---|---|
| 188A Business Innovation | AUD 1.25M assets, business ownership |
| 188B Investor | AUD 2.5M investment |
| 188C Significant Investor | AUD 5M investment (fast track) |
Which Pathway is Right for You?
Choose Skilled Independent (189) if:
- You have 85+ points
- In-demand occupation (IT, Engineering, Healthcare)
- PTE 79+ in all sections
- 8+ years work experience
Choose State Nomination (190) if:
- Need 5 extra points to reach 70-80
- Your occupation is on state lists
- Can commit to living in that state 2 years
Choose Regional (491) if:
- Need 15 extra points
- Lower competition occupations
- Open to regional living 3 years
Choose Student Pathway if:
- Under 30 years old
- Need Australian qualification points
- Want work experience in Australia
- Current points below 65
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