Updated on - 13 May 2026
Many people, especially those who have lived or worked in Australia for some time, often wonder how to get permanent residency in Australia. The country’s immigration system prioritises skilled migrants through multiple visa pathways, including the Subclass 189 visa. This blog will review what it is and how to get it.
What is Australia PR?
The Australian PR visa allows foreign nationals to live, work, or study in Australia. After three years of permanent residency, individuals can apply for Australian citizenship. It is a points-tested permanent visa for invited skilled workers who are not sponsored by a state, employer, or family member.
If you want to apply for an Australian PR from India, you must meet the eligibility criteria:
- Age Requirement: You must be under 45 years of age at the time of invitation (not just application).
- Points Requirement: A minimum of 65 points is required to be eligible, but higher scores are usually needed to receive an invitation.
- English Proficiency: You must demonstrate English language ability through approved tests such as IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL.
- Skills Assessment: You must obtain a positive skills assessment from the relevant authority for your occupation, based on your education and work experience.
- Occupation List: Your occupation must be listed on Australia’s Skilled Occupation List.
- Character Requirement: You must provide a police clearance certificate.
- Health Requirement: You must undergo a medical examination to meet Australia’s health standards.
Alongside the Australia PR eligibility criteria, you need the following documents to begin the process:
- Your educational certificates.
- Police verification certificate.
- A detailed medical certificate.
- Language proficiency test result or certificate.
- Two passport-sized photos (should meet the standard required by Australian immigration).
- A valid passport or a travel permit with at least six months of validity.
How To Apply For Australia PR from India
If you're wondering how to get PR in Australia from India, check out to understand the necessary steps:
- Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria, such as being on Australia's occupation list, and have sufficient points under the point-based system.
- Take a language proficiency test to demonstrate a good command of the language.
- Obtain a positive skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority for your occupation.
- Lodge your EOI through SkillSelect, the Australian Government’s official system. Your profile will be ranked based on your points score.
- Candidates with higher rankings may receive an invitation to apply for PR during periodic invitation rounds conducted by the Department of Home Affairs.
- Once you receive the invitation, submit your PR application within 60 days. Ensure you send all the required documents with your PR application.
- Wait for your PR status approval. Once approved, you can start preparing to fly to Australia. In addition to your visa, you also need travel insurance for Australia to secure your trip.
Conclusion
Australia's PR visa is the best answer for applicants wishing to settle in the country. It allows you to reside, work, or study there without restrictions. To get the Australia PR, you must meet the eligibility criteria. Luckily, the PR application process in Australia is relatively straightforward, particularly for skilled workers seeking to reside in the country indefinitely under the point-based immigration system. Additionally, having travel insurance can provide essential financial protection and peace of mind during your move and initial stay in Australia.
FAQs
1. How long does PR processing take?
Depending on the invitation rounds, application completeness, and visa subclass, processing dates may vary. Although there may occasionally be delays, skilled visas, such as the Subclass 189 or PR visa, normally take six to twelve months.
2. Can PR applicants work in Australia before PR is granted?
You can only work in Australia before PR is granted if you hold a valid work visa (such as a temporary skilled visa). A PR application alone does not give you the right to work.
3. Is travel insurance for Australia necessary while waiting for PR?
Although it is not required for PR clearance, travel insurance is strongly advised if you intend to travel prior to the issuance of your visa. It can pay for unforeseen medical expenses, vacation cancellations, or crises that arise while you are visiting.
4. How do I choose the best travel insurance online for my Australia trip?
Choosing travel insurance depends on your travel duration, age, and coverage needs. Look for plans that include medical expenses, hospitalisation, trip interruption, and baggage loss, especially since healthcare in Australia can be expensive for visitors.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the topic featured in the article. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. Please read the sales brochure/policy wordings carefully for detailed information about on risk factors, terms, conditions and exclusions. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.