Your Guide to Australian Immigration

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Australia Permanent Resident Visa Options – Summary

If you’re planning to settle permanently in Australia, there are three main visa streams to consider. Each stream has its own eligibility criteria and subclasses.

1. Family-Stream Permanent Visas

Designed for individuals with close family ties in Australia, including spouses/partners, children, parents, and in some cases, other relatives.

Key Highlights:

Requires sponsorship by an eligible relative in Australia.
Applicants must meet health, character, and general visa requirements.
Some subclasses have restrictions. For example, current visa holders with a “No further stay” condition may be ineligible to apply for permanent residency from within Australia.

2. Work-Stream Permanent Visas

This stream targets skilled workers, employer-sponsored applicants, and individuals nominated by Australian states or territories.

Important Notes:

Often requires a positive skills assessment and English language proficiency.
Applicants must typically meet age and other eligibility criteria.
Some visas offer a direct path to permanent residency, while others are provisional and may require regional residence or continued employment.
State or territory nomination is often necessary.

3. Business/Investor Stream Permanent Visas

For entrepreneurs and investors who can bring business acumen or capital to Australia.

Main Sub-streams:

Sub-streamOverviewKey RequirementsInvestor StreamOften starts with a temporary visa (e.g., subclass 188), leading to PR (subclass 888).Requires significant capital investment, proof of legitimate funds, and business experience.Significant InvestorHigher investment threshold with more flexible residence criteria.Greater financial commitment and lower physical presence requirement.Entrepreneur/InnovationAimed at those establishing or scaling businesses or commercializing ideas.Business plan, funding, and often state or territory nomination required.

Additional Points:

Many business visas involve a two-step process: provisional visa followed by permanent residency after meeting specific obligations.
Requirements vary by state/territory and may depend on age, investment type, business history, etc.

⚠️ General Considerations

No Further Stay Condition: Applicants on visas with this condition cannot remain in Australia to apply for a permanent visa.
Health & Character: Mandatory across all streams.
Financial Thresholds: Investment visas have high entry barriers and strict regulations around fund usage and duration.
State/Territory Involvement: Frequently required for both work and business visa approvals.xt here...