Australia Work Visa — Requirements, Cost, Processing Time
Key highlights
- Direct pathways to Permanent Residency (PR) for skilled workers
- Options for employer-sponsored or independent skilled migration
- High demand for professionals in healthcare, engineering, and IT
- Access to Australia's world-class Medicare healthcare system
- Workplace rights protected by Australian Fair Work legislation
- Opportunities for family members to work and study independently
- Vibrant multicultural work environment in major cities like Sydney and Melbourne
Processing time
4-11 months
Processing times can vary significantly based on the volume of applications and the specific visa subclass; regional visas are often prioritised.
Estimated cost
~$3,100 to $5,000+
- Base Application Charge (varies by subclass)$3,100 - $3,500+
- Additional Applicant over 18$1,500 - $1,800+
- Skills Assessment Fees (Third-party)$300 - $1,500
Requirements
- Your occupation must be on the relevant Skilled Occupation List (SOL)
- Positive skills assessment from the relevant Australian authority
- Under the age of 45 (for most permanent skilled subclasses)
- Competent English language proficiency (IELTS 6.0 equivalent or higher)
- Achievement of the minimum points test score (currently 65 points)
- Valid nomination from an approved Australian employer (if applicable)
- Satisfaction of the 'Genuine Temporary Entrant' requirement (if applicable)
- Meeting Australian health and character standards
Documents you'll need
- Valid passport (at least 6 months validity)
- National ID card (if applicable)
- Skills assessment result from a relevant authority
- English language test results (IELTS/PTE)
- Detailed CV and employment references
- Academic certificates and transcripts
- Police clearance certificates from all countries resided in
- Health examination results (My Health Declarations)
How to apply, step by step
- 1
Check the Occupation List
Identify which Skilled Occupation List your profession falls under and determine the most appropriate visa subclass for your situation.
- 2
Obtain a Skills Assessment
Apply to the relevant assessing authority for your profession to verify that your qualifications and experience meet Australian standards.
- 3
Submit Expression of Interest (EOI)
For points-tested visas, submit an EOI via the Department of Home Affairs’ SkillSelect system to be invited to apply.
- 4
Secure Nomination or Sponsorship
If applying for a sponsored visa, your employer must lodge a nomination for you and be approved as a standard business sponsor.
- 5
Lodge the Visa Application
Once you receive an invitation or your nomination is approved, complete the online application via ImmiAccount and pay the fees.
- 6
Attach Supporting Documents
Upload all required evidence, including identity documents, English results, and police clearances, to your ImmiAccount.
- 7
Health and Biometrics Checks
Undergo a medical examination with a Bupa-approved clinic and provide biometrics if requested by the department.
- 8
Receive Visa Decision
Wait for the Department of Home Affairs to process your application and issue your digital visa grant notification.
Tips to avoid refusal
- Ensure your CV matches the specific dates and job descriptions provided in your skills assessment.
- Book your English language test early, as test centres can have long waiting lists.
- Check that all scanned documents are high-quality colour copies of the originals.
- Do not quit your current job until the Australian visa is officially granted.
- Disclose all previous visa refusals from any country to avoid 'fraudulent information' bans.
- Keep your ImmiAccount updated with any changes in your personal circumstances.
Frequently asked questions
Related visa guides
Visa policies change frequently. Always verify current requirements with the official embassy or consulate before applying. PermitlyHQ provides general guidance and is not a substitute for legal or immigration advice.