Australia is a popular destination for individuals seeking permanent residency (PR) due to its high quality of life, diverse opportunities, and vibrant economy. However, the processing time for PR visas varies depending on the stream through which applicants apply. Understanding these timelines is crucial for prospective immigrants planning their journey to Australia.
Let’s look at some of the important key points:
- Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189): The Skilled Independent Visa, also known as Subclass 189, is for skilled workers who are not sponsored by an employer or family member. The processing time for this visa is relatively quicker compared to other streams. On average, applicants can expect their visa to be processed within 4 to 7 months.
- Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190): The Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190) is for skilled workers nominated by a state or territory government. The processing time for this visa can range from 5 to 8 months. It is essential to note that the processing time may vary depending on the specific state or territory nomination process.
- Skilled Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491): The Skilled Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491) is designed for skilled workers who want to live and work in regional areas of Australia. The processing time for this visa is generally around 5 to 8 months. Regional visas often have faster processing times due to the government’s emphasis on encouraging settlement in less-populated areas.
- Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Visa (Subclass 186): The Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Visa, Subclass 186, is for skilled workers nominated by an Australian employer. The processing time for this visa can range from 6 to 9 months. The involvement of an employer in the sponsorship process can add some complexity to the application.
- Partner Visas: Partner visas, such as the Partner (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 309) and the Partner (Migrant) Visa (Subclass 100), have varying processing times. On average, these visas take around 15 to 24 months. The processing time depends on factors such as the completeness of the application and the relationship evidence provided.
What are the more important things?
It is important to note that these processing times are indicative and subject to change based on various factors, including the number of applications received, policy changes, and administrative considerations.
Applicants can check the Department of Home Affairs official website for the most up-to-date information on visa processing times. It’s advisable for individuals planning to migrate to Australia to stay informed about any changes in processing times and requirements to ensure a smooth and successful visa application process.
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