10 Aus Immigration Visa Types, Requirements & Tips

Whether you’re planning a holiday, pursuing full-time study, launching your career or reuniting with loved ones, each journey to Australia depends on the right visa. A misplaced application or misunderstanding of eligibility criteria can lead to costly delays, unexpected refusals and even visa cancellations. That’s why choosing the correct visa subclass from the start is essential.

Australia’s population growth owes much to migration. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, net overseas migration accounted for 81% of population increase in the year to March 2023, adding 454,400 new arrivals. Understanding these trends underscores why so many skilled workers, students and families look to secure visas that match their goals.

Yet with over 100 visa subclasses spanning visitor, student, work, partner and business streams, the application process can feel overwhelming. Even minor oversights risk rejection. Fortunately, visa refusals aren’t the end of the road: the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT) offers a pathway to review decisions. In 2021–22, the AAT’s Migration and Refugee Division logged more than 14,800 reviews and resolved nearly 5,000 matters through alternative dispute resolution (2021–22 at a glance).

Simon Mander Consulting’s Visa Information Hub provides the clarity you need. Inside, you’ll find detailed guides on ten key visa categories—each with straightforward eligibility criteria, step-by-step application roadmaps and practical tips to avoid common pitfalls. Whether you’re aiming for a Working Holiday visa or planning permanent skilled migration, this article will help you navigate the process with confidence.

1. Visitor Visas (subclass 601, 651 & 600)

Visitor visas let you explore Australia’s sights, catch up with friends or attend short-term business events. There are three main subclasses—Electronic Travel Authority (601), eVisitor (651) and Visitor visa (600)—each tailored to different passport holders and travel needs. Below, we break down what each offers, who can apply, how to lodge your application and the best ways to dodge common mistakes.

Subclass Breakdown

• Electronic Travel Authority (subclass 601)
  • Apply using the Australian ETA mobile app.
  • Multiple entries for up to 12 months, with each stay capped at 3 months.
  • Ideal for passport holders from eligible countries who want a fast, digital process.

• eVisitor (subclass 651)
  • Free for European Union and a few other nations’ passport holders.
  • Valid for 12 months, allowing stays of up to 3 months per visit.
  • No application fee—perfect for short holidays or business meetings.

• Visitor visa (subclass 600)
  • Open to all nationalities, with single- or multiple-entry options.
  • Stays ranging from 3 to 12 months, depending on your stream.
  • Can be applied for online or via paper form if you prefer hard-copy documents.

Eligibility Requirements

Each visitor visa has slightly different entry rules, but common checks apply:

• Passport/Nationality
  • Subclass 601: only ETA-eligible passport holders (e.g., Hong Kong, Singapore, USA).
  • Subclass 651: nationals of EU member states, Iceland, Norway, Switzerland and a few others.
  • Subclass 600: open to all countries.

• Health & Character
  • No serious criminal record.
  • May require a chest X-ray or medical exam if you plan to stay longer than six months.
  • Declare any past immigration or criminal history honestly.

• Financial Capacity
  • Evidence you can support yourself: bank statements, payslips or a letter from your employer.
  • Funds to cover return airfare, accommodation and living expenses.

Application Process

1. Choose your lodgment method

   • 601: download and apply via the ETA app on iOS or Android.
   • 651 & 600: create an ImmiAccount at the Department of Home Affairs or use a paper form (for subclass 600 only).

2. Gather required documents

   • Clear scan or photo of your passport bio page.
   • Proof of funds (recent bank statements or payslips).
   • Travel itinerary or return-ticket reservation.
   • Additional documents for health/character checks, if requested.

3. Pay fees & submit

   • 601 and 651 are free or low-cost.
   • Subclass 600 fees vary by stream—check current charges in ImmiAccount.
   • Processing times average from 1 to 21 days—apply at least 4–6 weeks before departure to be safe.

4. Receive your visa

   • All visitor visas are linked electronically to your passport.
   • You’ll get a visa grant notice—save a PDF copy or screenshot for your records.

Tips and Common Pitfalls

• Check your passport expiry date—Australian authorities require validity at least six months beyond your return date.
• Never lodge multiple visitor visa applications at once; this can trigger processing delays or refusals.
• Keep your digital visa grant notice handy—airlines often request proof before boarding.
• Common refusal reasons include:
  • Insufficient evidence of funds or unclear source of income.
  • Lack of a return-travel plan or itinerary, raising doubts about your intent to leave.
  • Gaps or inconsistencies in health/character declarations.

With the right subclass and a well-prepared application, you’ll be free to enjoy Australia’s beaches, cities and cultural events without visa worries.

2. Student Visa (subclass 500)

Studying in Australia unlocks world-class education, vibrant campus life and access to post-study work opportunities. The Student visa (subclass 500) is your ticket not only to full-time courses but also to bringing family members along and potentially extending your stay through graduate streams. Below, we cover what makes this visa unique, how to qualify, the application steps and key tips to keep your studies on track.

Overview

The subclass 500 visa lets you:

• Enrol in CRICOS-registered schools, vocational colleges, universities and English language centres.
• Stay for the duration of your course—and, if eligible, apply for post-study work rights under the Graduate Work or Post-Study Work streams.
• Include dependents (partner and children) in your application, so your family can join you in Australia.

Visa length matches your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE), with the option to remain for any permitted leave period plus an extra 60-day grace window to finalise travel plans.

Eligibility Requirements

To meet the Student visa criteria, you must demonstrate:

• Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)
  A valid CoE from a provider on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS).

• English language proficiency
  Scores from IELTS, PTE Academic, TOEFL iBT or equivalent, as required by your chosen course.

• Financial capacity
  Bank statements or financial sponsorship letters showing enough funds to cover tuition fees, living costs (currently around AUD 21,041 per year) and travel.

• Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
  Valid OSHC for you and any dependents, maintained throughout your stay.

• Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) statement
  A written declaration explaining your study intentions, ties to your home country and plans after completing your course.

Application Process

1. Gather documents
   – CoE from your CRICOS-registered institution
   – Passport bio data page
   – English test results
   – OSHC policy details
   – Financial evidence (bank statements, sponsorship letters)
   – Health examination and police clearance certificates, if requested

2. Lodge your application
   Create an ImmiAccount, complete the subclass 500 application form and pay the visa charge.

3. Attend biometrics and health checks
   If the Department requests additional medical exams or fingerprints, book these promptly to avoid delays.

4. Receive your visa grant
   Your visa will be linked digitally to your passport—save the grant notification and note any conditions, such as work limits or course attendance requirements.

Tips and Common Pitfalls

• Apply early (6–8 weeks before course start) to allow time for health checks, GTE assessment and any unexpected requests for additional information.
• Keep your enrolment active—failure to maintain satisfactory course progress or attendance can lead to visa cancellation.
• Understand your work rights: up to 40 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours in scheduled breaks.
• Renew or top up your OSHC before expiry; lapses can affect your visa status and eligibility for future visas.
• Avoid overstaying your visa: if you need extra time after your course, explore options like the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) well before your student visa expires.

With careful planning and a clear grasp of requirements, the Student visa (subclass 500) can be the launchpad for both academic success and future career opportunities in Australia.

3. Working Holiday Visas (subclass 462 & 417)

If you’re under 30 (or 35 for a few countries) and keen to combine travel with short-term work, Australia’s Working Holiday visas are made for you. These visas let you experience life Down Under—earning some pocket money, meeting locals and exploring regions off the beaten track. Whether you’re sampling Sydney’s cafés or trekking through the Outback, a Working Holiday visa can give you the flexibility to fund your adventure.

There are two main streams—the 417 visa for countries like the UK, Canada and Ireland, and the 462 visa for places such as the USA, Philippines, Turkey and Thailand. Both let you stay for up to 12 months, with the chance to apply for a second-year extension if you complete specified regional work. Below we unpack what each subclass covers, who’s eligible, how to apply online and tips to make sure your Working Holiday goes without a hitch.

Overview

• Purpose: Combine holidaying with short-term employment to fund travel.
• Age limit: Under 30 years old (35 for Canadian, Irish and French passport holders).
• Validity: 12 months from grant date.
• Second-year visa: Eligible after 88 days of specified work in regional Australia.
• Streams:
– Subclass 417: Available to passport holders from countries including the UK, Ireland, Canada, Germany, Hong Kong, Japan, Republic of Korea, Sweden and Norway.
– Subclass 462: Open to nationals of the USA, Philippines, Turkey, Thailand, China, Malaysia, Vietnam, Poland, Portugal and several others.

Eligibility Requirements

Before you apply, make sure you tick these boxes:

• Nationality
– 417: Confirm your country appears on the Department of Home Affairs list.
– 462: Check you hold a passport from an eligible country and, where needed, a government-issued letter of support.
• Age
– You must be between 18 and 30 (35 for certain 417 countries) at the time of application.
• Health & Character
– No substantial criminal record.
– You may need a medical exam or chest X-ray, depending on prior travel history and intended length of stay.
• Funds
– Evidence of at least AUD 5,000 in savings to support yourself on arrival (bank statements or a letter from your bank).

Application Process

1. Create an account
   – Sign up for an ImmiAccount to start your application.

2. Complete the online form
   – Choose the correct subclass (417 or 462).
   – Upload digital copies of your passport bio page and any support letters for subclass 462.

3. Pay the visa charge
   – Fees vary by subclass—check the current rate in ImmiAccount.

4. Provide biometrics (if requested)
   – Follow the instructions to book fingerprints or a photo, if required.

5. Receive your visa grant
   – Your visa will be linked electronically to your passport. You’ll get a grant notice with your visa grant number and conditions—save a screenshot or PDF.

Tips and Common Pitfalls

• Track your regional work days
– If you want a second-year visa, keep records (payslips, employer references) of your 88 days of specified work.
• Check your health coverage
– Overseas travel insurance may not cover work-related injuries—consider an Australian policy or top-up plan.
• Avoid overstay
– Working Holiday visas don’t allow dependents, so plan your return or next move before your 12 months are up.
• One application at a time
– Lodging multiple WHM visa applications simultaneously can lead to confusion or delays—complete one before starting another.

Armed with the right subclass and a clear understanding of the process, you’ll be all set to make the most of your Working Holiday adventure in Australia.

4. Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa (subclass 482)

When Australian businesses can’t find the right talent locally, the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa (subclass 482) steps in. It lets approved employers sponsor overseas workers to fill genuine skill gaps, whether for a couple of years or a longer stint. There are two main streams—Short-Term for up to two years, and Medium-Term for up to four years—each tied to different occupation lists and pathways to permanent residency.

Overview

The TSS visa bridges employer needs and global talent:

• Short-Term stream
  • Valid for two years (or three if your sponsor has an international trade obligation).
  • Occupations listed on the Short-Term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL).
  • No direct path to permanent residency, but you can reapply once.

• Medium-Term stream
  • Valid for up to four years.
  • Occupations on the Medium- and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL).
  • Eligible for permanent residency via the Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186) after three years.

Eligibility Requirements

Before lodging your visa, you and your sponsor must meet these criteria:

• Skills and experience
  • A positive skills assessment in your nominated occupation, or at least two years’ relevant work experience.
• English proficiency
  • IELTS average band 5.0 (or equivalent).
• Health and character
  • Undergo required medical exams.
  • Provide police clearances from every country you’ve lived in for 12 months or more over the last 10 years.
• Salary threshold
  • At least the Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (currently AUD 53,900) or the market salary rate for your role—whichever is higher.

Sponsorship & Nomination

Bringing you on board involves a two-step process for your employer:

1. Approved sponsor

   • Lodge a sponsorship application and demonstrate genuine business operations.
   • Commit to the training benchmark by contributing to local staff development.

2. Nomination of position

   • Nominate your ANZSCO occupation code and detail the job description.
   • Show evidence of Labour Market Testing (advertising the role to Australian citizens or permanent residents).
   • Confirm the salary meets TSMIT or the market rate.

Once the nomination is approved, you have six months to submit your visa application.

Tips & Common Pitfalls

• Double-check your occupation list
  • Ensure your role appears on STSOL for Short-Term or MLTSSL for Medium-Term.
• Plan the sponsorship early
  • Sponsors should complete Labour Market Testing and training contributions before nominating.
• Salary benchmarking requests
  • Be ready to back up your pay rate with market data if the Department flags it.
• Detailed guidance
  • For a step-by-step walkthrough and insider tips, see our detailed TSS visa guide.

With careful coordination between you and your employer, the subclass 482 visa can be a straightforward route to bringing specialised skills to Australia—while keeping your pathway to long-term residency open.

5. Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189)

The Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) is a permanent residency pathway for professionals who meet Australia’s points test without employer or state sponsorship. It’s ideal if you hold an occupation on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL) or Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) and want complete freedom to live and work anywhere in Australia. Unlike employer-sponsored visas, the 189 visa puts you in the driver’s seat—once you meet the threshold, you can apply regardless of a specific job offer.

Overview

Subclass 189 operates entirely through the online SkillSelect system. You lodge an Expression of Interest (EOI), and if you score high enough, you’ll receive an invitation to apply. Once granted, this visa:

• Allows you, your partner and dependent children to live, work and study anywhere in Australia.
• Offers full access to Medicare and the ability to sponsor relatives for permanent residence.
• Has no age limit waiver for certain occupations, but applicants under 45 at invitation generally fare better.

This is a true points-tested visa: the more points you accumulate, the better your shot at an invitation. There’s no need for an Australian employer or state government to be involved.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for subclass 189, you must tick off a few key boxes:

• Occupation on the SOL or MLTSSL
• Nominal age under 45 at the time of invitation
• A positive skills assessment in your nominated occupation
• Competent English (minimum IELTS 6.0 in each band or equivalent)
• At least 65 points on the Department’s points test

Points are awarded for factors such as age, work experience, education level, English proficiency and partner skills. Hitting 65 points is the floor, but top scorers receive invites much faster.

Invitation & Application Process

1. Submit an EOI via SkillSelect
   • Include details of your skills assessment, work history and test scores.
   • Indicate you’re seeking an independent visa (no sponsorship).
2. Wait for an invitation
   • Invitations are issued periodically based on occupation ceilings and points rankings.
3. Lodge your visa application within 60 days
   • Provide certified copies of your skills assessment, English test results, identity documents and character clearances.
   • Pay the visa application charge and attend any requested health or biometrics checks.
4. Receive your visa grant
   • Once approved, your visa is valid immediately and lasts indefinitely, granting you the right to live in Australia permanently.

Tips to Boost Your Points Score

• Aim to improve your English test bands—each extra band can add points.
• Accumulate additional work experience in your occupation, even in non-Australian roles.
• Factor in partner points if they have skills assessments or high English proficiency.
• Look at other point-earning areas, like completing a regional study stint or a PhD.

For detailed strategies on how to raise your points total, check out our guide on how to improve your points score for skilled migration to Australia.

Comparing Your Options

Subclass 189 is great if you don’t need sponsorship, but you might also consider:

• Subclass 190 (Skilled Nominated Visa) if you secure a state or territory nomination.
• Subclass 491 (Skilled Work Regional (Provisional)) if you’re open to living in designated regional areas for a pathway to permanent residency.

Each option has its own pros and trade-offs around sponsorship requirements, regional commitments and processing times. To weigh your best path, our comparison of 189, 190 and 491 visas will help you decide.

6. Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190)

For skilled professionals aiming for permanent residency, the Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190) offers a points-tested pathway with the backing of a state or territory government. By securing a nomination, you gain extra points toward your overall score and boost your chances of receiving an invitation to apply. Once granted, this visa lets you, your partner and dependents live, work and study anywhere in Australia—and even sponsor eligible relatives.

Overview

The subclass 190 visa combines the flexibility of independent skilled migration with the support of a state or territory. You must first meet the Department of Home Affairs’ points test (minimum 65 points) and hold an occupation on the relevant state list. With a successful nomination, you’ll receive an invitation via SkillSelect and can then lodge your visa application for permanent residency.

State Sponsorship Requirements

Each Australian state and territory sets its own criteria for nomination. These typically include:

• Occupation lists: only certain ANZSCO codes are open for nomination in each jurisdiction.
• Regional or sector commitments: some states require you to live or work in designated areas or industries.
• Expression of interest thresholds: states may set minimum points or ask for supplementary details, such as a job offer.
• Documentation: evidence of ties to the region—like previous study, work experience or family connections—can strengthen your case.

For a detailed breakdown of each state’s nomination rules and how to prepare your application, check our state sponsorship guide.

Eligibility Requirements

Before seeking nomination, ensure you meet the core visa criteria:

• Points test: at least 65 points, with extra credit for factors such as superior English, work experience and partner skills.
• Skills assessment: a positive outcome from the relevant assessing authority for your occupation.
• English proficiency: minimum IELTS 6.0 in each band (or equivalent via PTE, TOEFL, OET).
• Age: under 45 at the date of invitation.
• Health and character: clear medical checks and police certificates from all countries you’ve lived in for 12 months or more.

Application Process

1. Lodge an EOI in SkillSelect
   • Specify the subclass 190 visa and select the state or territory you wish to nominate you.
2. Await state endorsement
   • If the jurisdiction invites you, they’ll issue a nomination approval through SkillSelect.
3. Receive your invitation to apply
   • With nomination confirmed, the Department sends an invitation within the next invitation round.
4. Lodge your visa application
   • You have 60 days to provide all supporting documents—skills assessments, English test results, identity records and sponsor nomination papers.
   • Pay the visa charge and complete any requested health or biometrics checks.

Tips & Common Pitfalls

• Research demand lists early: some states refresh their occupation ceilings monthly—make sure your skill appears before you apply.
• Highlight regional ties: documented study, work or family connections in the nominating state can tip the balance in your favour.
• Don’t overpromise: only commit to living and working in the state if you genuinely intend to meet any regional residency conditions.
• Watch your points: a bare-minimum score may delay your invitation—consider ways to boost points (advanced English, partner qualifications or regional study).
• Keep documents organised: incomplete or mismatched paperwork is a frequent cause of delays and requests for further evidence.

By understanding each state’s unique nomination process and preparing a strong EOI, you’ll position yourself for a faster invitation and smoother pathway to permanent residency under the subclass 190 visa.

7. Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (subclass 491)

The Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491) is a points-tested pathway designed to attract skilled migrants to Australia’s regional areas. Valid for up to five years, it provides a clear route to permanent residency under the Skilled Regional (Permanent) visa (subclass 191), provided you meet specified residence and work requirements.

Regional communities—from healthcare and engineering to agriculture and hospitality—rely on talent from overseas to fill staffing gaps and drive local growth. The subclass 491 helps you live, work and study in these designated zones, while enjoying many of the same rights as metropolitan migrants.

Overview

• Provisional visa valid for five years, leading to permanent residency under subclass 191.
• Two nomination streams:
– State or territory government endorsement
– Sponsorship by an eligible relative living in a designated regional area
• Full work and study rights across regional Australia, plus travel flexibility to all states and territories.
• Encourages settlement in areas facing skill shortages and supports community development.

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for subclass 491, you must:

• Have an occupation on the Skilled Occupation List for Regional Australia (SOL Regional).
• Score a minimum of 65 points on the Department’s points test (factors include age, education, work experience, English proficiency and partner skills).
• Obtain a positive skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority for your nominated ANZSCO code.
• Demonstrate competent English (e.g., IELTS 6.0 in each band or equivalent).
• Be under 45 at the time you receive your invitation.
• Satisfy health and character requirements, including medical exams and police clearances for all countries of residence.

Nomination & Application Process

1. Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) via SkillSelect
   • Specify subclass 491 and choose either the state/territory or family sponsorship stream.
2. Secure nomination or sponsorship
   • State/territory stream: meet each jurisdiction’s criteria—occupation ceilings, regional commitments and any additional requirements.
   • Family stream: provide evidence that your eligible relative holds permanent residency and resides in a designated regional area.
3. Receive an invitation to apply
   • Invitations are issued in periodic rounds based on points rankings and regional demand.
4. Lodge your visa application
   • You have 60 days to upload certified documents: skills assessment, English test results, identity records, health/character clearances and nomination evidence.
   • Pay the visa application charge and complete any requested biometrics.

Tips & Common Pitfalls

• Confirm your intended residential address falls within a designated regional area—each state’s mapping tools can guide you.
• Plan for subclass 191 requirements: you must live, work and study in regional Australia for at least three years and meet a minimum taxable income (currently AUD 53,900 per year).
• Keep meticulous records—payslips, rental agreements and utility bills demonstrate compliance with regional stay and work conditions.
• Update your ImmiAccount promptly if your regional address or employment changes; failing to notify the Department can affect both your provisional visa and pathway to permanent residency.

8. Employer Nomination Scheme Visa (subclass 186)

For skilled workers seeking permanent residency through employer sponsorship, the Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) visa (subclass 186) is a leading option. This visa lets approved Australian employers nominate overseas professionals for full, unrestricted work and residency rights. There are two main streams—Direct Entry for new sponsorships and Temporary Residence Transition for holders of certain temporary visas—each with its own criteria and pathways.

Overview

The ENS visa grants permanent residency and the right to live and work permanently in Australia. It has three streams, but most applicants use:

• Direct Entry
  • For applicants with a relevant skills assessment or at least three years of experience in their nominated ANZSCO occupation.
  • No requirement to hold a temporary visa in Australia first.

• Temporary Residence Transition (TR Transition)
  • For subclass 482 or 457 visa holders who have worked for their nominating employer for at least three years.
  • A streamlined pathway for employees already embedded in the business.

Once granted, the ENS visa covers you, your partner and dependent children. You also gain access to Medicare, can sponsor eligible relatives and have unrestricted work rights.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify under either stream, you must meet these core criteria:

• Age
  • Generally under 45 at the time of application, though exemptions exist for certain specialists.
• Skills and Experience
  • Direct Entry: positive skills assessment from the relevant authority, or minimum three years’ work in the nominated occupation.
  • TR Transition: three years’ current work for the sponsoring employer on a subclass 482 or 457 visa.
• English Proficiency
  • Competent English (IELTS average band 6.0 or equivalent).
• Health and Character
  • Satisfactory medical examination and police clearances from all countries lived in for 12 months or more over the past 10 years.
• Salary Threshold
  • Must be paid at least the Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (currently AUD 53,900) or the market rate for your role—whichever is higher.

Sponsorship & Nomination Process

1. Employer Sponsorship Approval
   • The business applies to become an approved sponsor, demonstrating genuine operations and commitment to local workforce training.
2. Labour Market Testing
   • The employer must show they’ve advertised the position to Australian citizens or permanent residents, unless exempt.
3. Position Nomination
   • Nominate the ANZSCO occupation, detailed job duties, salary and location.
   • Ensure the role meets the training benchmark contribution for Australian staff development.
4. Visa Application Lodgement
   • Once nomination is approved, you have up to six months to submit your visa application.
   • Provide identity documents, skills assessments, English test results, health and character certificates, and evidence of salary.

Tips & Common Pitfalls

• Verify Sponsorship Status
  • Confirm your employer’s sponsorship approval is current before you start your application—expired approvals cause delays.
• Mind the Timeframes
  • Lodge your visa application before your current temporary visa expires or before six months elapse from nomination approval.
• Prepare Complete Evidence
  • Incomplete job descriptions, missing payslips or gaps in work history often trigger requests for further information.
• Check Salary Benchmarks
  • Double-check that your salary meets or exceeds the higher of the TSMIT and the market rate; underpayment can lead to refusal.

By understanding each stream’s requirements and coordinating closely with your employer, the subclass 186 visa can secure your permanent place in Australia’s skilled workforce.

9. Partner Visas (subclass 309/100 & 820/801)

If building a life with your partner in Australia is the goal, partner visas unlock that door. These visas recognise genuine relationships—whether you’re married, engaged or in a de facto partnership—and provide a clear path from a provisional permission to permanent residency. Depending on where you apply, you’ll use either the offshore stream (subclass 309 leading to 100) or the onshore stream (subclass 820 leading to 801).

Overview

Partner visas consist of two stages:

• Offshore Partner (subclass 309 → 100)
  • Apply from outside Australia.
  • Provisional subclass 309 grant allows you to enter and live in Australia while your permanent visa (100) is processed.
  • Once subclass 309 conditions are met, you transition automatically to subclass 100, granting indefinite residency.

• Onshore Partner (subclass 820 → 801)
  • Apply from within Australia.
  • Subclass 820 gives temporary residency; subclass 801 permanent residency follows after at least two years.
  • You can work and study unrestricted during both stages.

Both streams let you include dependent children in the same application. After the provisional grant, you’ll receive a bridging visa if you’re in Australia, so you can continue living without interruption.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify, you and your sponsor must demonstrate:

• Genuine relationship
  • Married or in a de facto partnership (minimum 12 months together, unless married or engaged).
  • Intent to live together as a couple on a genuine basis.

• Sponsorship by an eligible person
  • Australian citizen, permanent resident or eligible New Zealand citizen.
  • Must sign a sponsorship undertaking, committing to support you financially and meet any welfare obligations for two years.

• Health and character
  • Medical examinations (chest X-ray, general health checks).
  • Police certificates from all countries lived in for 12 months or more since turning 16.

• No sponsorship bar
  • Neither you nor your sponsor can have past sponsorship refusals, cancellations or significant debt to the Australian government.

Application Process

1. Gather relationship evidence

   • Joint bank statements, lease agreements, utility bills.
   • Photos, travel itineraries, social media proof showing time spent together.

2. Complete the online form

   • Create an ImmiAccount and select the correct stream (309 or 820).
   • Attach identity documents, relationship evidence and police/medical clearances.

3. Sponsor lodges undertaking

   • Your sponsor submits a sponsorship application through the same ImmiAccount.
   • Pay the combined visa and sponsorship fees.

4. Await visa outcome

   • Processing can take 12–24 months.
   • If you applied onshore, you’ll receive a bridging visa with work and study rights.

5. Transition to permanent

   • After two years (onshore) or when subclass 309 criteria are met (offshore), the Department grants subclass 100 or 801 automatically.

Tips & Common Pitfalls

• Organise evidence chronologically
  • Keep a relationship diary with dates, locations and descriptions.
  • Group financial and household documentation by year.

• Demonstrate continuous commitment
  • Show that any periods of separation were temporary and for valid reasons (work, study, family).

• Avoid gaps in sponsorship eligibility
  • Check your sponsor hasn’t breached visa conditions or failed past sponsorship obligations.

• Keep digital and hard-copy backups
  • The Department may request certified copies at any stage—having both formats ready can speed up processing.

For an in-depth walkthrough of each step, see our comprehensive spouse visa guide.

10. Business Innovation and Investment Visas (subclass 188 & 888)

For entrepreneurs and investors aiming to establish, manage or grow a business in Australia, the Business Innovation and Investment (BIIP) pathway combines a provisional visa (subclass 188) with a permanent follow-on visa (subclass 888). Whether you’re launching a startup, placing significant capital into the Australian economy or developing innovative technology, these visas offer tailored streams to suit different levels of business and investment activity.

Overview

The BIIP comprises two main stages:

• Provisional Visa (subclass 188): grants temporary residency for up to five years, allowing you to commence your business or investment.
• Permanent Visa (subclass 888): available once you’ve met the conditions of your subclass 188 grant, giving indefinite residency.

Subclass 188 itself breaks down into four streams:

• Business Innovation stream: for experienced business owners with a turnover of at least AUD 500,000 per year.
• Investor stream: requires a designated investment of at least AUD 2.5 million in state or territory bonds.
• Significant Investor stream: investment of at least AUD 5 million in managed funds or direct investments.
• Entrepreneur stream: for those with a funding agreement of AUD 200,000 from an approved third party for a high-value innovation project.

Each stream leads to subclass 888, which has matching streams and confirms your permanent residency once conditions—such as maintaining your business turnover or investment portfolio—are satisfied.

Eligibility Requirements

Though specific thresholds vary by stream, common requirements include:

• Business Innovation stream
  • Minimum net business turnover of AUD 500,000 (last two years).
  • Net personal and business assets of at least AUD 800,000.
  • Ownership stake of at least 51% (for small businesses) or equivalent management control.

• Investor and Significant Investor streams
  • Comply with designated investment thresholds (AUD 2.5 million or AUD 5 million).
  • Hold assets sufficient to fund the investment and associated living expenses.
  • Investment must be maintained for a minimum period (generally four years for Significant Investors).

• Entrepreneur stream
  • Evidence of a genuine and realistic funding agreement.
  • Proposal for a high-value innovation project with commercial potential.
  • Nomination by a state or territory government.

All applicants must:

• Score at least 65 points on the Department’s points test.
• Be under 55 years old (waivers possible for high-value investments).
• Demonstrate competent English (IELTS 6.0 or equivalent).
• Meet health and character requirements.

Application Process

1. Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)
   • Lodge via SkillSelect under the Business Innovation and Investment category.
   • Specify your chosen stream and provide preliminary evidence of turnover, assets or funding agreements.

2. Obtain state or territory nomination
   • Each jurisdiction sets its own criteria, including sector priorities, minimum investment amounts and caps on places.
   • Work closely with the nominating authority to prepare a detailed business plan, investment summaries and supporting financial documents.

3. Receive an invitation to apply
   • If your EOI meets the state’s requirements and you achieve the points threshold, you’ll be invited to lodge your visa application.

4. Lodge the visa application
   • Upload certified documents: audited financial statements, investment proofs, funding agreements and identity records.
   • Pay the visa application charge and complete any requested medical or character checks.

5. Transition to subclass 888
   • Once your provisional visa conditions are met (e.g., maintaining investment for the required term or achieving business milestones), apply for the permanent subclass 888 visa.

Tips & Common Pitfalls

• Prepare a robust business plan and financial history
  • Detailed projections and audited accounts build confidence with state nominating bodies.
• Understand each state’s nomination requirements and annual caps
  • Some streams have limited places—early engagement with the state government can secure your spot.
• Plan for compliance audits and investment timelines
  • Both provisional and permanent streams may require evidence of continuous business operation or investment performance; maintain clear records.
• Seek professional advice on structuring investments
  • The right legal and financial setup can streamline permission for fund transfers and asset valuation.

Navigating the BIIP can be complex, but with early preparation, clear documentation and informed guidance, you can leverage these visas to establish your business footprint or investment presence in Australia—and ultimately secure permanent residency under subclass 888.

Your Next Steps Toward an Australian Visa

By now, you’ve seen how each visa subclass aligns with different ambitions—whether you’re headed to Australia for a short stay, a degree, an employer-sponsored role or long-term settlement. The most important step is matching your personal goals to the right visa category. Take a moment to review your priorities: Are you visiting for leisure or business? Do you plan to upskill overseas or bring family members with you? Will employment in your field pave the way to permanent residency? Pinpointing your primary objective will guide every decision that follows.

Once you’ve nailed down the visa type, start assembling key documents early. Immigration applications move fastest when you can promptly produce:

• Certified identity documents (passport bio page, birth certificate)
• Skills assessments or Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)
• Evidence of financial capacity (bank statements, sponsorship letters)
• English proficiency test results and health/character clearances
• Relationship or employment evidence, where applicable

Setting hard deadlines—six to eight weeks before your intended lodgment date—helps you avoid last-minute scrambles and processing delays.

Complex cases or borderline eligibility scenarios can be daunting. If you’re unsure whether you meet the criteria, or if you’ve had a previous refusal, it’s wise to seek professional advice. Simon Mander Consulting offers a complimentary consultation to map out your options and tailor a strategy that minimises risk. Visit our homepage to book your free session and get expert input from migration law specialists.

Don’t forget our Visa Information Hub—your go-to resource for in-depth guides, the latest policy updates and step-by-step checklists. Bookmark it now so you can revisit detailed streams on the visas most relevant to you, whenever you need clarity or reassurance.

Your Australian journey begins with the right visa. Take action today: define your goals, gather your paperwork and reach out for personalised support. With the right preparation and trusted advice, you’ll be one step closer to calling Australia home.

SMCadmin

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