Guide To Skilled Worker Visa Australia Requirements

Australia’s robust economy depends on skilled professionals in sectors like healthcare, engineering, information technology and trades. A Skilled Worker Visa authorises you to live and work in Australia, converting your international qualifications into real career opportunities and laying the groundwork for long-term residency.

However, the application process covers multiple visa subclasses, a detailed points test, skills assessments, health checks and extensive documentation—all of which must satisfy precise government requirements. Missing a single detail can stall your application or jeopardise your eligibility.

In this guide, we break down every step: selecting the right visa subclass; confirming your occupation against the Skilled Occupation List; calculating your points; submitting an Expression of Interest through SkillSelect; and gathering and certifying your supporting documents. These practical instructions will help you prepare a complete, accurate application and boost your chances of success.

Step 1: Identify the right Skilled Worker Visa subclass

Before diving into points tests and skill assessments, you need to pick the visa subclass that matches your situation. Australia offers both independent and sponsored streams, each with its own set of requirements, sponsorship obligations and routes to permanent residency. By identifying the right subclass up front, you’ll tailor your preparation—whether it’s gathering employer references or lining up state nomination—to the visa most likely to succeed.

Overview of independent vs sponsored streams

Independent visas are points-tested and do not require a sponsor. The most common example is the Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189), which grants permanent residency anywhere in Australia once you meet the points threshold and receive an invitation. In contrast, sponsored streams rely on either an employer or a state/territory nomination to support your application. These may include both permanent and provisional visas, each with specific work and residence obligations.

Here’s a snapshot of the main skilled visa options:

Key features of the Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189)

The Skilled Independent (subclass 189) visa is the go-to option if you hold a highly ranked points score and don’t have an employer or state sponsor. Once granted, you:

• Live and work anywhere in Australia with no regional restrictions
• Access Medicare, education and other social benefits
• Sponsor eligible relatives for permanent residency
• After meeting residency requirements, apply for Australian citizenship

To see the official list of conditions and the latest eligibility details, visit the Skilled Independent visa page on the Department of Home Affairs website.

When to consider state-nominated and regional visas

If you don’t quite have the points for subclass 189, or if you have ties to a particular region or employer, sponsored streams may be more practical:

• Subclass 190 (Skilled Nominated): You need nomination from a state or territory, which often comes with a commitment to live and work in that jurisdiction. It’s permanent and also points-tested.
• Subclass 491 (Skilled Work Regional Provisional) and 494 (Skilled Employer-Sponsored Regional): These provisional visas require either state/territory or employer sponsorship. You commit to living and working in designated regional areas. Both come with pathways to permanent residency—subclass 491 holders can apply for subclass 191 after meeting residence and work criteria, while subclass 494 holders may seek subclass 186 sponsorship.

Choosing the right stream early lets you focus your energy—whether that’s contacting an Australian employer, applying for state nomination or fine-tuning your points score—to secure an invitation and, ultimately, your visa grant.

Step 2: Verify your occupation on the Skilled Occupation List

Before you invest time in point calculations or skills assessments, confirm that your profession is recognised by the Department of Home Affairs. The Skilled Occupation List (SOL) sets out which occupations are eligible for each visa subclass. If your role isn’t on any of the relevant lists, you won’t meet the basic eligibility criteria—no matter how strong your other credentials are.

Categories within the Skilled Occupation List

Australia maintains three main occupation lists:

• Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL)
  Targets occupations in ongoing national shortage. Applicants with roles here (for example, civil engineers or registered nurses) can generally apply under subclass 189, 190 or 491.

• Short-term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL)
  Covers occupations with emerging or short-term demand (such as some ICT roles). STSOL occupations often qualify only for provisional visas like subclass 491 or employer-sponsored streams.

• Regional Occupation List (ROL)
  Highlights professions where regional Australia needs extra skilled workers. If your occupation appears on the ROL, you may be eligible for subclass 494 or subclass 491 with additional regional points.

Each list reflects labour market needs and ties directly into which visas you can pursue. Always choose the list aligned with your intended subclass.

Searching for your ANZSCO code

Every occupation on the SOL is defined by an ANZSCO (Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations) code—a six-digit identifier that tells the department, and assessing authorities, exactly what you do. Here’s how to find and use it:

1. Go to the official Skilled Occupation List page on the Department of Home Affairs website.
2. Download the PDF or use the built-in search to type your job title or keywords (for example, “mechanical engineer”).
3. Note the ANZSCO code and the list(s) where it appears (MLTSSL, STSOL or ROL).
4. Check the associated assessing authority (e.g., Engineers Australia for engineering occupations, ACS for IT).

Your ANZSCO code determines which authority reviews your skills assessment and which visa streams you can access—so it’s crucial to match both your job title and duties with the official description.

Common pitfalls and tips

• Exact title match: Slight variations in wording can move you off the list. Always copy the occupation title verbatim.
• Regular updates: The SOL is refreshed periodically. Bookmark the online page or download the current PDF to avoid relying on outdated information.
• Job description alignment: Your day-to-day duties must mirror the ANZSCO definition. Prepare to map your tasks against the official list when you apply.
• Save a reference copy: Take a screenshot or save the PDF version of the relevant list and code—this can be handy if the website structure changes before you lodge.

For full details and the most up-to-date list, visit the Skilled Occupation List: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/working-in-australia/skill-occupation-list

Step 3: Obtain a positive skills assessment

Your skills assessment is the cornerstone of any skilled visa application. It’s an independent verification that your qualifications and work experience meet Australian standards for your nominated occupation. Without a suitable assessment from the correct authority, your application can’t proceed—so it pays to get this right the first time.

Choosing the right assessing authority

Each ANZSCO-defined occupation is assigned to a specific assessing authority. Common ones include:

• Engineers Australia (for engineers)
• Australian Computer Society (ACS) (for ICT professionals)
• Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia / ANMAC (for nurses and midwives)
• VETASSESS (for many trade and service occupations)

To pick the correct authority:

1. Check the “Assessing Authority” column next to your ANZSCO code on the Skilled Occupation List.
2. Visit the authority’s website for detailed requirements and application forms.
3. Confirm any additional prerequisites—such as membership or accreditation—that may apply to your occupation.

Matching your ANZSCO code precisely ensures your assessment is accepted by the Department of Home Affairs.

Engineers Australia Migration Skills Assessment process

If you’re an engineer, follow this six-step pathway to a positive outcome:

1. Verify your qualification
   Ensure your degree or diploma is recognised under the Washington or Sydney Accords, or confirm its Australian equivalence.
2. Choose the right category
   Decide between the Competency Demonstration Report (CDR) for general engineers or the Migration Skills Assessment (MSA) for niche fields.
3. Gather documentation
   Prepare your academic transcripts, CV, detailed employment references (including dates, hours and duties), and a passport-style photo.
4. Prepare your competency report
   Write your CDR, demonstrating how your projects and tasks map to ANZSCO descriptors.
5. Submit your application
   Use the online portal, pay the fee, and upload all evidence in PDF form.
6. Await the outcome
   Processing generally takes 6–8 weeks. You’ll receive a letter stating whether your skills are assessed as suitable.

For full details, visit the Engineers Australia Migration Skills Assessment page.

Tips to avoid delays

• Accord‐accredited qualifications
If your degree is from an Accord signatory (e.g., UK, Canada), you can often fast-track recognition. Check the list of accredited programs on the authority’s site.

• Detailed employment evidence
Vague reference letters can trigger follow-up requests. Ask employers to specify your role, tasks, hours per week and project outcomes.

• Consistent job titles
Use the exact ANZSCO title in all documentation. If your official job title differs, include a statutory declaration explaining the variance.

• Certified translations
Any document not in English must be translated by an accredited translator and certified.

• Stay on top of updates
Assessing authorities periodically tweak requirements. Subscribe to their newsletters or check their news pages two weeks before you apply.

Getting your skills assessment right upfront saves weeks—and sometimes months—of back-and-forth. Treat it as an investment in your Australian migration journey.

Step 4: Calculate your points score

Australia’s General Skilled Migration program uses a points test to rank applicants. You must score at least 65 points to receive an invitation—and higher scores improve your chances in competitive occupations. When you lodge your Expression of Interest, you’ll declare points for age, English, work history, qualifications and other factors. Later, you must provide evidence to support each claim.

Age, English and partner points

Age, language proficiency and partner status form the first layer of your score:

• Age
  • 18–24 years: 25 points
  • 25–32 years: 30 points
  • 33–39 years: 25 points
  • 40–44 years: 15 points
• English language
  • Competent English (IELTS ≥6 or PTE ≥50): 0 points
  • Proficient English (IELTS ≥7 or PTE ≥65): 10 points
  • Superior English (IELTS ≥8 or PTE ≥79): 20 points
• Partner status
  • Partner with Competent English or no partner: 10 points
  • Partner with Proficient English and skills assessment: 10 points

Check your test scores against the Department’s English definitions and keep your test report handy—results are valid for three years.

Work experience points

Points for skilled work experience reward both overseas and Australian service:

• Overseas skilled employment
  • 3–5 years: 5 points
  • 5–8 years: 10 points
  • 8+ years: 15 points
• Australian skilled employment
  • 1–3 years: 5 points
  • 3–5 years: 10 points
  • 5–8 years: 15 points
  • 8+ years: 20 points

Tip: Reference letters must specify your role, dates, hours worked per week and duties so your experience aligns precisely with ANZSCO descriptors.

Qualification and bonus points

Your educational credentials and special bonuses can boost your tally:

• Qualifications
  • Diploma or trade qualification: 10 points
  • Bachelor’s degree: 15 points
  • Master’s degree: 15 points
  • Doctorate: 20 points
• Additional bonuses
  • Australian study requirement (at least 2 years CRICOS-registered study): 5 points
  • Credentialled community language: 5 points
  • Study in a regional area: 5 points
  • Professional Year in Australia: 5 points
• State/territory nomination or regional sponsorship
  • Subclass 190 nomination: 5 points
  • Subclass 491 or 494 sponsorship: 15 points

For the official breakdown, see Schedule 6D of the Migration Regulations: https://classic.austlii.edu.au/au/legis/cth/consol_reg/mr1994227/sch6d.html. To play with different scenarios, use the Department’s points calculator.

Armed with your scorecard, you’ll know whether to push for state nomination, top up your English test or plan an Australian professional year—each move can lift your points and sharpen your edge.

Step 5: Demonstrate English language proficiency

Good English skills are a cornerstone of your skilled migration application. Beyond the points you can earn, your test results prove you can function in Australian workplaces and communities. You must demonstrate at least “Competent English” when you submit your Expression of Interest, and later upload the official score report with your visa application.

English proficiency levels explained

The Department defines three English levels, each carrying different point values:

• Competent English (0 points)
  • IELTS Academic overall band 6.0
  • PTE Academic overall score 50
  • TOEFL iBT 12 in each component

• Proficient English (10 points)
  • IELTS Academic overall band 7.0
  • PTE Academic overall score 65
  • TOEFL iBT 24 in each component

• Superior English (20 points)
  • IELTS Academic overall band 8.0
  • PTE Academic overall score 79
  • TOEFL iBT 28 in each component

Competent English meets the minimum requirement, but if you can push for Proficient or Superior, you’ll boost your points total and strengthen your ranking in invitations rounds.

Accepted tests and minimum scores

Several English tests are recognised for migration purposes. Use this table to match your target level with test requirements:

Note that Cambridge and OET results map differently. Always confirm the latest conversion tables before booking your test.

Timing and validity of test results

Most English test scores are valid for three years from the test date. Plan accordingly:

• Ensure your test remains valid when you lodge your EOI and when you submit your visa application.
• Allow time for a retake if you fall short of your target score.
• Book your exam at least eight weeks before you plan to submit your EOI.

By timing your test well, you avoid last-minute re-testing and keep your application window clear for a smooth submission.

Step 6: Meet health and character requirements

Before you can secure your Skilled Worker Visa, you and any family members included in your application must clear both health and character checks. These requirements protect the Australian community and ensure you’re fit to settle and work here. It’s best to organise your health exams early and gather your police certificates in parallel with other steps to keep your application on track.

Health examinations

All visa applicants (and dependants, even if they remain overseas) must meet the Department’s health requirements. Typically, this involves:

• A general health check by an approved panel physician
• Chest X-ray to screen for tuberculosis
• Blood tests for conditions such as HIV, hepatitis and syphilis

Tip: arranging your health exams before you receive an invitation can shorten processing time. Book with one of the Department’s panel doctors in your country; they’ll upload results directly to ImmiAccount. If you wait for a formal request, you’ll usually have 28 days to complete the tests.

Keep copies of your referral documents and appointment receipts. If you or a family member have a pre-existing condition, consider consulting a migration agent—some illnesses can be waivered, but delaying disclosure can lead to refusals.

Character assessments and police certificates

Demonstrating good character is non-negotiable. You’ll need to supply:

• A National Police Certificate from the Australian Federal Police (AFP) if you’ve spent 12 months or more in Australia in a single stint since turning 16
• Police certificates from every country where you’ve spent 12 months or more (cumulative) in the last 10 years
• Completed Form 80 (Personal particulars for assessment including character assessment)
• Completed Form 1221 (Additional personal particulars information)

See the Department’s character requirements for full details. Certificates must be current (usually valid for 12 months) and show complete disclosure. If a country won’t issue a certificate, you can submit official documentation explaining why, along with character references and statutory declarations.

Arrange your certificates early—some countries take up to three months to process requests. Once you have them, upload scanned copies in ImmiAccount alongside your forms. Prompt, accurate documentation helps avoid last-minute requests and keeps your application “decision ready.”

Step 7: Prepare and submit an Expression of Interest in SkillSelect

Before you can be invited to apply for any points-tested skilled visa, you need to lodge an Expression of Interest (EOI) through the Department’s SkillSelect system. An EOI is a free, online profile that captures your personal details, qualifications, work history and language ability. It’s not a visa application, but rather your application for consideration—so you’ll need to present your strongest case from the start.

Setting up SkillSelect

First, head to the SkillSelect registration page and create an ImmiAccount if you don’t already have one. You’ll verify your email, set a password and choose security questions. There is no fee to submit an EOI, but accuracy is crucial—you cannot finalise your visa until you have an invitation, and any errors in your EOI can delay or even disqualify you. Once registered, you can log in, review guidelines and start entering your details.

Completing your EOI

When filling out your Expression of Interest:

• Select your nominated occupation by exact ANZSCO code, ensuring it matches your skills assessment.
• Declare your highest qualification, work experience (both Australian and overseas), age and English test results.
• Indicate partner status—whether you have a partner, and if they meet English and skills requirements.
• Add any bonus points you qualify for, such as Australian study, professional year or community language credentials.

Be sure to upload supporting documents—like your skills assessment letter and English test report—as PDFs. Even though the EOI doesn’t require every document immediately, providing key evidence early builds confidence in your claims. Remember, you can only update your EOI before an invitation is issued; after that, it’s locked until the 60-day application window closes.

Managing and updating your EOI

Your EOI remains live for up to two years or until you receive two invitations—whichever comes first. Whenever you complete additional qualifications, gain more work experience or improve your English score, log back into SkillSelect to adjust your claimed points. Increasing your score can move you up the rankings and improve your chance of invitation. If you’ve accepted an offer of state or employer nomination, update those details as well. Just be mindful: once you receive an invitation, you have 60 days to apply under those specific terms—so fine-tune your EOI beforehand to avoid any last-minute surprises.

Step 8: Receive and respond to an invitation to apply

After lodging your Expression of Interest, the next milestone is an invitation to apply. Invitations are issued in periodic rounds and target occupations in highest demand. Once you receive one, it kicks off a fixed window to submit your formal visa application. Treat this invitation as your green light—failure to act within the timeframe can mean waiting for the next round or re-lodging your EOI.

Invitation rounds and competitive occupations

The Department of Home Affairs runs invitation rounds roughly every few weeks, but exact timing varies. Each round allocates places by occupation, and quotas—known as “occupation ceilings”—can tighten competition. If your profession is oversubscribed, only applicants with top points scores make the cut. Keep an eye on published cut-off scores for your ANZSCO code; these thresholds give you a realistic sense of where you stand.

To improve your odds:

• Track previous invitation rounds on the Home Affairs website to spot patterns.
• Fine-tune your points by retaking an English test or adding bonus points (e.g., regional study).
• Consider state nomination if your score falls just below the cut-off for subclass 189.

Invitation letter details

Your invitation letter will spell out the minimum points you must demonstrate when you apply, and confirm any sponsorship terms—like living in a nominating state. The most critical detail is the validity period: you have exactly 60 days from the invitation date to lodge your visa application. No extensions are granted, so calendar reminders and a document-checklist are essential.

Key items to check in your invitation:

• Confirm the required points score matches what you claimed in your EOI.
• Note any residency or employment commitments tied to sponsorship.
• Bookmark the deadline and work backward to schedule your document gathering and ImmiAccount lodgement.

What to do if you don’t receive an invitation

Not getting an invitation in the first few rounds isn’t the end of the road. You can update your EOI at any time before an invitation is issued:

• Boost your points: Improve your English score, gain more work experience, or earn a community language credential.
• Seek state nomination: Many states have lower cut-offs for subclass 190 or additional points for regional subclass 491. Research their streams and apply directly on the relevant state migration site.
• Explore alternate visas: If your occupation remains ultra-competitive, consider employer-sponsored or provisional regional options (subclass 494) that align with your skills.

By refining your profile and staying proactive—rather than waiting passively—you’ll keep your skilled worker visa Australia requirements journey on track and inch closer to that all-important invitation.

Step 9: Gather and certify your supporting documents

Before you hit “submit” in ImmiAccount, you need a rock-solid bundle of evidence that backs up every claim in your Expression of Interest and visa application. Collecting and certifying documents early helps you meet deadlines, respond to requests swiftly and keep the process moving.

Identity and relationship documents

You must prove who you are—and if you’re including family members, what your relationship is. Essential items include:

• Current passport biodata pages for you and any dependants
• Birth certificates or family registers
• Marriage certificates, divorce decrees or death certificates (if widowed or separated)
• Statutory declarations for name changes or de facto partnerships

If any document isn’t in English, provide a certified translation. A NAATI-accredited translator in Australia (or an equivalent overseas) should translate and sign each page. Then have copies certified by an authorised person—such as a Justice of the Peace, notary public or Australian embassy official—with a stamp or endorsement stating: “Certified as a true copy of the original.”

Employment, education and skills evidence

Your application hinges on clear proof of your qualifications, work history and skills assessment outcome. Don’t leave gaps:

• Skills assessment letter or outcome certificate from the relevant assessing authority
• Academic transcripts and graduation certificates (include course outlines or diploma supplements if available)
• Detailed employment references on company letterhead, specifying ANZSCO-mapped duties, start and end dates, hours per week and supervisor contacts

For each role, attach a position description that shows how your duties align with the official ANZSCO occupation. If you’ve held multiple positions, include separate letters for each. Any documents not in English need certified translations and must be certified as true copies just like your identity documents.

Mandatory forms and statutory declarations

Beyond identity and work evidence, you must lodge official Department forms and any affidavits to clarify special circumstances:

• Form 80 Personal particulars for assessment including character assessment
• Form 1221 Additional personal particulars information
• Parental responsibility or consent forms (Form 1229) if sponsoring children under 18 without both parents
• Statutory declarations for missing police certificates or exceptional character issues

Complete each form in full and sign it before an authorised certifier. Unsigned or partially filled forms are a frequent trigger for requests and delays. Once signed and certified, scan and upload them into your ImmiAccount. Having these statutory documents ready and correctly certified ensures your application is “decision ready” from day one.

Step 10: Lodge your visa application through ImmiAccount

Now that you’ve received your invitation and gathered every certified document, it’s time to submit your visa application through ImmiAccount. This secure online portal is where your Expression of Interest, invitation details and supporting evidence come together into a formal application. A careful lodgement here sets the stage for a smooth processing experience.

Creating and logging into ImmiAccount

Begin at the ImmiAccount login page: https://online.immi.gov.au/ola/app. If you don’t already have an account, click “Create an ImmiAccount,” provide a valid email address and choose a strong password. You’ll receive a verification link—click it, then return to the portal and log in.

Inside ImmiAccount, select “New Application” and choose the visa subclass exactly as shown on your invitation letter (for example, Skilled Independent (subclass 189) or Skilled Nominated (subclass 190)). You’ll be prompted for your invitation reference number, the date it was issued and the points score you must meet. Enter these details precisely so the system can match your profile to the correct invitation.

Uploading documents and paying fees

With your application form open, navigate through each section and upload your certified documents. ImmiAccount accepts PDF uploads—combine multi-page files (like your Form 80 or detailed employment references) into single PDFs to avoid confusion. Key uploads include:

• Your skills assessment outcome
• English test results
• Health examination receipt or panel physician file reference
• Police certificates and completed Forms 80 and 1221
• Identity and relationship documents for any dependants

After you’ve attached everything, proceed to the “Attach Documents” summary and double-check file names against your document checklist. Then move on to the “Pay and Lodge” section. Here, ImmiAccount will calculate:

• The main applicant visa application charge
• Any additional instalment for adult applicants without functional English
• Fees for included family members

Payment options include credit card or international bank transfer. Once your transaction is approved, you’ll see a payment confirmation and a transaction reference number. Save or screenshot this receipt—if there’s ever a processing question, that reference will be your proof of payment.

Finally, review every section of your form. When you’re confident all fields are complete and documents correctly uploaded, click “Lodge Application.” ImmiAccount will generate an Acknowledgment of Application (AoA) email containing your transaction reference and application ID. Keep that email in a safe place—it’s your anchor for checking status updates, responding to departmental requests and tracking processing times.

Step 11: After you apply: tracking status and processing times

Once you’ve lodged your visa application in ImmiAccount and received that Acknowledgment of Application email, the next phase is all about staying informed and keeping your status current. You won’t hear back immediately—processing can take months—but there are tools and procedures that help you track progress, maintain lawful status in Australia, and respond swiftly to any departmental requests.

Bridging visas and lawful status

If you applied while in Australia and your current substantive visa is due to expire before a decision is made, you’ll generally become eligible for a Bridging Visa A (BVA) the day after your existing visa lapses. The BVA keeps you lawful and often carries the same work and study rights as your previous visa.

Should you need to travel overseas while your application is still under assessment, you can apply for a Bridging Visa B (BVB). This lets you leave and return within a specified travel window—just be mindful that once you depart, your BVA is replaced by the BVB, which may come with different work or study conditions. A Bridging Visa C (BVC) is another option if you didn’t hold a substantive visa when you applied, but note it does not permit travel outside Australia.

Keep an eye on your ImmiAccount “View visa details” page to see which bridging visa you hold, its expiry date and any attached conditions. If you need a BVB, lodge the request in ImmiAccount before you depart Australia—processing can take several weeks.

Checking application progress

To monitor how your application is tracking, log into ImmiAccount regularly. In your dashboard you’ll find:

• A “Messages” tab where the Department sends formal requests, interview invites or health referrals.
• A “View application status” section showing milestones (e.g., “Under preliminary assessment,” “Health checks outstanding”).

You can also use VEVO to confirm your bridging visa details and any new conditions once they’re granted.

For a general idea of how long decisions are taking, check the Department’s processing times guide. Remember that published timelines are averages—your application may move faster or slower depending on complexity, occupation ceilings and external checks.

Responding to requests for additional information

It’s common to receive requests for more information or documents—perhaps an updated police certificate, a medical referral or evidence clarifying your work duties. These requests normally arrive via ImmiAccount under “Messages” and will include a deadline (often 28 days).

To avoid unnecessary delays:

1. Read each request carefully and tick off every document or form mentioned.
2. Gather certified copies or translations as needed—don’t assume previous uploads cover new requirements.
3. Submit your response in one consolidated ImmiAccount message rather than piecemeal uploads.
4. Keep a local copy of everything you send, with clear filenames (e.g., “Smith_PassportID.pdf,” “Smith_PoliceCertificate.pdf”).

If you foresee difficulty meeting a deadline—say you’re waiting on an overseas police check—notify the Department as soon as possible in writing, outlining the expected timeframe. Prompt, complete replies demonstrate you’re proactive and can help keep your application moving without unnecessary refusals or “decision ready” hiccups.

By maintaining lawful status with the right bridging visa, routinely checking your application milestones and answering follow-up requests swiftly, you’ll put yourself in the best position for a smooth visa grant. Once you see that “Visa granted” notification in ImmiAccount, you’re ready to plan your new life in Australia.

Step 12: After visa grant: rights, obligations and next steps

Congratulations—you’ve secured your Skilled Worker Visa and are officially an Australian permanent resident. This milestone opens up a range of entitlements, but it also comes with a few responsibilities. Understanding your rights and next steps will help you hit the ground running and make the most of your new status.

Travel rights and Resident Return Visas

Your visa grant letter will confirm a five-year travel facility. During this initial period you can enter and exit Australia as often as you like. Once those travel rights expire, you’ll remain a permanent resident but need a Resident Return Visa (subclass 155 or 157) to re-enter:

• Subclass 155 is for holders with sufficient ties to Australia (eg. continuous residence or business).
• Subclass 157 serves those who cannot meet the residence requirement but must re-enter within five years.

Apply for your RRV up to 12 months before your travel facility ends to avoid interruptions. Each visa application portal will guide you through the eligibility tests and required documentation.

Settling in Australia

Becoming a permanent resident means you’re entitled to most government services and can fully participate in Australian life. Key steps include:

• Medicare enrolment: Register for Australia’s public health scheme to access free or subsidised medical care. You’ll need your passport and visa grant details.
• Tax File Number (TFN): Apply online through the Australian Taxation Office so employers can withhold the correct tax from your pay.
• Opening a bank account: Most major banks let you set up an account even before you arrive. Have your passport, proof of address and visa details on hand.
• Driver licences and transport: Depending on your state, you may be able to transfer your overseas licence or apply for an Australian one—check your local road authority’s rules.
• Education and childcare: If you have school-aged children, enrol them at your nearest public or private school. Many regions offer priority enrolment to permanent residents.

Don’t forget to update your address with MyGov and any service providers within 14 days of moving. Keeping your contact details current ensures you receive important notices, like tax assessments or Medicare correspondence.

Sponsoring family and pathway to citizenship

As a permanent resident you can sponsor eligible relatives for various family visas, including partner visas, parent or child visas. Each stream has its own age, financial and relationship requirements, so review the Department of Home Affairs family visa pages before lodging an application.

When you’re ready, you can also start on the path to Australian citizenship. The standard general eligibility criteria include:

• Holding permanent resident status for at least four years, with at least 12 months as a permanent resident immediately before applying.
• Meeting residence requirements (in most cases, no more than 12 months outside Australia in the last four years).
• Demonstrating basic English proficiency and an understanding of Australia’s values through the citizenship test.
• Passing a character assessment.

Applying for citizenship solidifies your rights—such as voting in federal elections—and brings you closer to fully calling Australia home. Check the citizenship timeline and kit on the Department’s website to plan each step.

With these rights unlocked and responsibilities understood, you’re ready to build your future in Australia. Embrace the opportunities, stay informed of any legislative changes, and enjoy the lifestyle that comes with your Skilled Worker Visa.

Time to launch your Australian skilled migration journey

You’ve now got a clear roadmap: from choosing the right visa subclass and confirming your ANZSCO code, to nailing your skills assessment, maximising your points and lodging a thorough application. Each step you take brings you closer to living and working in Australia as a permanent resident.

If you’re ready to turn this guide into action, professional support can make all the difference. Whether it’s reviewing your points calculation, polishing your Expression of Interest or gathering certified documents, the team at Simon Mander Consulting is here to streamline your path. Visit our website to access your free migration guide, explore tailored services and book a consultation with an expert who knows how to tackle the complexities of Australian visa requirements.

Don’t let paperwork or procedural uncertainty slow you down. With 22+ years of experience and thousands of successful outcomes, Simon Mander Consulting will help you present a decision-ready application—and get you one step closer to your Australian dream.

SMCadmin

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