Rank #27
Australia
Australia and New Zealand • UTC+10 • Australia/SydneyMonthly Cost
$2,032
-7% vs USA
Internet
179 Mbps
Mobile Avg
Monthly Cost
$2,032
-7% vs USA
Internet
179 Mbps
Mobile Avg
Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)
For skilled workers who are not sponsored by an employer, state, or family member. Allows permanent residency in Australia.
Min. Income
AUD 53,900/year
Per Applicant
Processing
6–12 Months
Average Time
Validity
Permanent
Permanent Residency
Citizenship
4 Years
Years to Apply
Eligibility & Required Docs
Eligibility Requirements
Meet the points test- Be under 45 years of age
- Have a suitable skills assessment
- Meet health and character requirements
Required Documents
- Skills assessment
- English language test results
- Identity documents
- Health and character documents
Residency Rules
Taxation
Residents are taxed on worldwide income. Non-residents are taxed only on Australian-source income at higher rates.
Physical Presence
Must be in Australia for at least 2 years in the last 5 years to maintain residency status.
Advantages
- Permanent residency status
- Access to Medicare
- Pathway to Australian citizenship
Disadvantages
- Competitive points system
- Lengthy processing times
- High cost of living in major cities
Compare with
CanadaExpress Entry
New ZealandSkilled Migrant Category
United KingdomSkilled Worker Visa