Permanent Residency Applications & Assistance

How do I apply for permanent residency?

There are three main pathways to obtaining permanent residency – employer sponsored migration, skilled migration, or family migration.

How soon can I qualify?

There’s no easy answer to this question. The pathways to achieving permanent residency depend on the visa program you apply under and your circumstances.

However, as soon as you’re eligible for permanent residency you should apply because regulations or your circumstances may change rendering you ineligible or unable to meet the criteria that you previously did meet.

What’s the process?

You’ll need identification documents (passport, birth certificate). If you’re applying for a work or skilled visa, you’ll need to supply evidence of work qualifications and work experience.

If the visa is related to your relationship with an Australian you’ll need documents to establish that relationship. These documents vary depending on the visa you apply for.

How long does it take?

It varies. The Department of Immigration publishes service standards concerning visa processing times.
To assist the Minister’s delegate in their determination and to ensure your application is processed as efficiently as possible we prepare comprehensive submissions and submit supporting documents to demonstrate that you are eligible for permanent residency.

Related content

Our other services