Australia has long been a dream destination for many Indian citizens seeking to build a better future abroad. With its high quality of life, strong economy, and diverse opportunities, it’s no wonder that Australia’s Permanent Residency (PR) visa is highly sought after. However, before embarking on this exciting journey, it’s essential to understand the Australia PR visa fees and the entire application process. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the various categories of Australian PR visas available to Indian citizens, explore the benefits of obtaining PR status, break down the application process, and provide a detailed analysis of the Australian PR processing time and cost.
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Australian PR Visa Categories for Indian Citizens
Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)
The Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) is a popular choice among Indian citizens. This visa category is designed for skilled workers who are not sponsored by an employer, a family member, or a state or territory government. To be eligible for this visa, candidates must score enough points on the Australian Points Test, which considers factors such as age, education, work experience, and English language proficiency.
Application Fee:
The application fee for Subclass 189 is subject to change and should be checked on the official Department of Home Affairs website. As of my last knowledge update in September 2021, it ranged from AUD 4,045 for the main applicant to AUD 2,020 for additional adult applicants and AUD 1,015 for children.
Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)
The Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190) is another avenue for Indian citizens to obtain Australian PR. This visa requires candidates to be nominated by a state or territory government in Australia, making it essential to choose a region that aligns with their skills and occupation.
Application Fee:
Similar to Subclass 189, the application fee for Subclass 190 can vary, and it’s advisable to check the latest fees on the official Department of Home Affairs website. As of my last update, it ranged from AUD 4,045 for the primary applicant to AUD 2,020 for additional adults and AUD 1,015 for children.
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Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491)
The Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491) is designed for skilled workers willing to live and work in regional Australia. To be eligible, applicants must either be nominated by a state or territory government or sponsored by an eligible relative living in a designated regional area.
Application Fee:
As with other visa categories, the application fee for Subclass 491 may change over time. At my last update, it ranged from AUD 4,045 for the primary applicant to AUD 2,020 for additional adults and AUD 1,015 for children.
Benefits of Having a PR in Australia
Obtaining Australia Permanent Residency comes with a multitude of benefits for Indian citizens:
- Work and Live Anywhere: PR holders can live and work anywhere in Australia without any restrictions. This allows for flexibility in choosing one’s preferred location.
- Access to Healthcare: PR holders have access to Australia’s world-class healthcare system, Medicare, which covers a range of medical services.
- Education Opportunities: PR holders can access government-subsidized or free education in public schools, including tertiary education. This can significantly reduce the cost of education for families.
- Social Security: PR holders are eligible for various social security benefits, including unemployment benefits and family assistance.
- Pathway to Citizenship: After holding PR status for a specific period and meeting residency requirements, PR holders can apply for Australian citizenship, enjoying all the privileges and responsibilities of being a citizen.
The Application Process for Australian PR
Skill Assessment
Before applying for any PR visa, Indian citizens must undergo a skill assessment to ensure their qualifications and work experience align with Australian standards. This process typically involves submitting educational and employment documents to a relevant assessing authority.
Expression of Interest (EOI)
After obtaining a positive skill assessment, candidates must submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through the online SkillSelect system. The EOI outlines key details about the applicant, including their nominated occupation and points score.
Invitation to Apply
Candidates with the highest points in the pool may receive an invitation to apply for the desired PR visa. It’s crucial to provide accurate information in the EOI, as this can impact the likelihood of receiving an invitation.
Visa Application
Upon receiving an invitation, applicants must submit a complete visa application within the specified timeframe. This includes paying the application fee, providing supporting documents, and meeting health and character requirements.
Health and Character Checks
All PR applicants, along with their dependents, must undergo health examinations and provide police clearance certificates to demonstrate good character.
Australian PR Processing Time and Cost Bifurcation
The processing time and cost for Australian PR visas can vary depending on the specific visa category and individual circumstances. Here, we provide a general overview of the processing time and cost for the Subclass 189 visa:
Processing Time
The processing time for a Subclass 189 visa can range from several months to over a year. Factors that influence processing times include the volume of applications, completeness of documentation, and the applicant’s specific situation.
Cost Breakdown
Let’s break down the costs associated with applying for a Subclass 189 visa:
- Application Fee: As mentioned earlier, the application fee for the primary applicant was approximately AUD 4,045 as of my last update.
- Additional Applicant Fees: For each additional adult applicant, the fee was around AUD 2,020, and for children, it was approximately AUD 1,015.
- Skill Assessment Fee: Before applying, candidates must pay a fee to the relevant assessing authority for their skill assessment, which can vary depending on the occupation and authority.
- English Language Testing: If required, applicants may need to take an English language proficiency test, such as the IELTS or PTE Academic, incurring additional costs.
- Medical and Police Clearance: Costs associated with mandatory health examinations and obtaining police clearance certificates may vary depending on the applicant’s location and circumstances.
- Migration Agent Fees: Some applicants choose to hire a registered migration agent to assist with the application process. Migration agent fees are separate from government fees and can vary based on the agent’s services.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I apply for an Australian PR visa without a job offer?
Yes, you can apply for a Subclass 189 or Subclass 190 visa without a job offer. These visas are designed for skilled workers who are not sponsored by an employer.
Q2: How long does it take to get Australian PR as an Indian citizen?
The processing time for Australian PR visas can vary, but it generally takes several months to over a year from the time of submitting your application.
Q3: Can I include my family in my PR application?
Yes, you can include your spouse/partner and dependent children in your PR application, and they will have the same PR status as you.
Q4: Are there any age limits for Australian PR eligibility?
While there is no maximum age limit to apply for an Australian PR visa, the Points Test favors younger applicants. Points awarded for age decrease as you get older.
Conclusion
Obtaining Australian Permanent Residency is a significant milestone for Indian citizens, offering numerous benefits and opportunities. However, it’s crucial to be well-informed about the Australian PR visa fees, application process, and requirements before beginning your journey. By following the guidelines outlined in this comprehensive guide, you can navigate the path to Australian PR with confidence, knowing that you are well-prepared for the exciting adventure ahead. Remember to regularly check the official Department of Home Affairs website for the most up-to-date information on fees and requirements as they may have changed since my last update in September 2021.
