Australian visa and immigration basics — what you need to know

Plain-language guide · reviewed for general accuracy · Australia

Australia's visa system, managed by the Department of Home Affairs, is extensive and regularly updated. Whether you want to visit, study, work, or join family, here is an overview of the main visa pathways and how the system works.

1. Visitor visas

Most tourists and short-term visitors can apply for a Visitor visa (subclass 600), which allows stays of up to three, six, or 12 months. Citizens of many countries — including the UK, EU member states, the US, Canada, Japan, and South Korea — can use the Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) (subclass 601) for visits up to three months at a time. The eVisitor (subclass 651) is available to EU passport holders and some other European countries. Visitor visas generally do not allow work, though limited volunteering may be permitted.

2. Student visas

The Student visa (subclass 500) allows international students to study full-time at registered Australian education institutions. You must be enrolled in a CRICOS-registered course and meet English language and financial capacity requirements. Student visa holders can generally work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. After completing studies, graduates may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) to gain work experience in Australia.

3. Skilled migration

Australia's skilled migration programme is points-tested. Points are awarded for age, English proficiency, skilled work experience (both overseas and in Australia), educational qualifications, partner skills, and other factors. You need a minimum of 65 points to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect. Key skilled visas include:

Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) — permanent residence, no state nomination or employer sponsorship needed.
Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190) — permanent residence, requires nomination by a state or territory government.
Skilled Work Regional visa (subclass 491) — provisional visa for regional areas, with a pathway to permanent residence after three years.

In late 2024, the Skills in Demand visa (subclass 482) replaced the Temporary Skill Shortage visa. It includes three specialist streams and provides a clearer path to employer-sponsored permanent residence, with reduced work experience requirements for the Specialist Skills stream.

Tip: the points test is competitive, not a guarantee. Meeting the minimum 65 points does not mean you will get an invitation — higher scores are invited first, and invitation rounds are at the Department's discretion based on occupation ceilings.

4. Partner and family visas

Australian citizens and permanent residents can sponsor their spouse or de facto partner for a Partner visa (subclass 820/801 onshore, or 309/100 offshore). The relationship must be genuine and continuing. The visa is granted in two stages: a temporary visa followed by permanent residence, usually after two years. Parent visas are available but have very long processing times — contributory parent visas (subclass 143) involve a significant visa application charge (around $48,000) but have shorter wait times than non-contributory options. Child visas are also available for dependent children of Australian residents.

5. Citizenship

To become an Australian citizen, you generally need to have been a permanent resident for at least four years (including at least 12 months as a permanent resident), meet the character requirements, and pass the citizenship test (unless exempt). Australia allows dual citizenship.

Common questions

What is the minimum points score for skilled migration?: You need at least 65 points to submit an EOI, but higher scores are invited first. Points are based on age, English ability, work experience, and qualifications.
Can I work on a student visa in Australia?: Yes, up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during breaks. Your visa conditions will confirm your specific work rights.
How long does a partner visa take to process?: Processing times vary but typically range from 12 to 24 months. The temporary stage is usually granted first, followed by the permanent stage after two years.

Visa rules change frequently. Tell the assistant your nationality, what type of visa you are interested in, and your circumstances for a plain-language starting point.

This guide is general information about Australian immigration law and is not legal advice. Visa rules are set by the Department of Home Affairs under the Migration Act 1958 and Migration Regulations, and are subject to frequent change. Always check the official Home Affairs website or consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or immigration lawyer.