The Subclass 309/100 Offshore Partner Visa allows the spouse or de facto partner of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen to live in Australia. It is a two-stage visa process that provides a pathway to permanent residency.

Visa Process

The application is processed in two steps:

1. Subclass 309 (Temporary Partner Visa) – Grants temporary residence, allowing the applicant to live in Australia while awaiting eligibility for permanent residency.
2. Subclass 100 (Permanent Partner Visa) – If the relationship remains genuine and ongoing after two years, the applicant can apply for permanent residency.

Eligibility Requirements

For the Applicant (Visa Holder):

• Must be in a genuine, ongoing relationship with an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.
• Must be living outside Australia at the time of application and when the temporary visa (Subclass 309) is granted.
• Must meet health and character requirements (including medical exams and police checks).
• If in a de facto relationship, the couple must have been together for at least 12 months, unless their relationship is officially registered in Australia.                                                                                                                                    For the Sponsor (Partner):
  • Must agree to sponsor the applicant for at least two years.
  • Must meet character requirements, including police clearance.

  Must be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.

  Key Benefits

  • Live, work, and study in Australia.
  • Access Medicare (Australia’s public healthcare system) once on a Subclass 309 visa.
  • Travel in and out of Australia freely while holding the temporary visa.
  • Pathway to permanent residency through the Subclass 100 visa after two years.
  • Potential eligibility for Australian citizenship once permanent residency is granted and all conditions are met.
    

    Processing Time & Costs

    • Subclass 309 (Temporary Visa):

      • 50% of applications processed within 13 months.
      • 90% processed within 19 months.

    • Subclass 100 (Permanent Visa):

      • Eligible for application two years after submitting the initial visa request.
      • Processing typically takes 12 months.

    • Cost:

      • Starts from AUD 8,850 (additional charges may apply for dependents).

          Application Process

        1. Gather and submit required documents, including:
           • Identification documents (passport, birth certificate, national ID, etc.).
           • Proof of relationship (photos, joint bank accounts, shared finances, social evidence).
           • Police and medical checks.
        2. Apply for the Subclass 309 Visa while outside Australia.
        3. Await a decision on the temporary visa. If granted, the applicant can live, work, and study in Australia while their application for permanent residency is processed.
        4. After two years, provide updated evidence to apply for the Subclass 100 (Permanent Partner Visa).
        5. If approved, the applicant becomes a permanent resident of Australia.

Family Visas for Relatives of Australian Citizens or Permanent Residents

Subclass 820/801 (Onshore Partner Visa)

The Subclass 820/801 Partner Visa is for spouses or de facto partners of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens. It allows the applicant to live in Australia with their partner and provides a pathway to permanent residency.

Visa Process

This visa is granted in two steps:

1. Subclass 820 (Temporary Partner Visa) – Allows the applicant to live, work, and study in Australia while awaiting eligibility for permanent residency.
2. Subclass 801 (Permanent Partner Visa) – If the relationship remains genuine after two years, the applicant can apply for permanent residency.
   

   Eligibility Requirements

For the Applicant (Visa Holder):

• Must be in a genuine and ongoing relationship with an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.
• Must apply while in Australia.
• Must meet health and character requirements, including police and medical checks.
• Must not have had a visa refused or canceled (unless an exemption applies).
• For de facto partners: The relationship must have been for at least 12 months, unless formally registered with an Australian state or territory.

For the Sponsor (Partner):

• Must be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.
• Must agree to sponsor the applicant for at least two years.
• Must meet character requirements, including police clearance.

Benefits of the Subclass 820/801 Visa

✅ Stay, work, and study in Australia.
✅ Access Medicare (Australia’s public healthcare system).
✅ Travel in and out of Australia while on the temporary visa.
✅ Apply for Australian citizenship (after meeting the residency requirements on a permanent visa).

Processing Time & Costs

• Subclass 820 (Temporary Visa):

  • 50% of applications processed within 19 months.
  • 90% processed within 40 months.

• Subclass 801 (Permanent Visa):

  • Can be applied for two years after the initial application.
  • Processing typically takes 12 months.

• Cost:

  • Starts from AUD 8,850 (additional fees for dependents may apply
    

    Application Process

    1. Prepare Documents
       • Proof of identity (passport, birth certificates, etc.)
       • Relationship evidence (shared finances, household, social aspects, commitment proof)
       • Police clearances and health examinations
    2. Apply for the Subclass 820 Visa (Temporary Partner Visa) while in Australia
    3. Receive a Bridging Visa A (BVA) to stay in Australia while waiting for the decision
    4. After two years, submit additional documents to apply for the Subclass 801 Permanent Visa
    5. If approved, gain permanent residency in Australia

Investor Visa (Subclass 891)

The Investor Visa (Subclass 891) provides permanent residency to individuals who have maintained a qualifying investment in Australia and intend to continue their business or investment activities.

Key Eligibility Criteria:

✔ Previous Visa Requirement: Must have held a Subclass 162 (Investor) visa for at least four years.
✔ Investment Requirement: Must have maintained a designated investment of at least AUD 1.5 million in an Australian state or territory for a minimum of four years.
✔ Residency Requirement: Must have resided in Australia for at least two years within the four-year investment period.
✔ Business and Investment Commitment: Must demonstrate an ongoing intention to continue business or investment activities in Australia.

Benefits of the Investor Visa (Subclass 891)

✔ Permanent Residency: Live, work, and study in Australia with no time restrictions.
✔ Pathway to Citizenship: Apply for Australian citizenship once eligible.
✔ Access to Public Services: Enjoy Medicare benefits and social security entitlements.
✔ Freedom to Work & Study: No limitations on employment or educational opportunities.

✔ Unrestricted Travel: Travel in and out of Australia freely for up to five years from the visa grant date.
✔ Sponsor Family Members: Support eligible family members in applying for permanent residency.
✔ No Work or Study Restrictions: Freedom to work in any occupation and pursue education in Australia.

Global Talent Visa (Subclass 858)

The Global Talent Visa (Subclass 858) is a permanent residency visa for highly skilled professionals who have an outstanding track record in their field. It is designed for individuals with exceptional talent and international recognition in key industries identified by the Australian Government as critical for innovation, economic growth, and global competitiveness.

Key Benefits:

✔ Permanent Residency: Live, work, and study in Australia indefinitely.
✔ Fast-Tracked Processing: Priority processing ensures quicker visa outcomes.
✔ No Employer Sponsorship Required: Instead of an employer, applicants need a nomination from an eligible individual or organization in their field.
✔ Include Family Members: Eligible family members can be included in the application.
✔ Pathway to Citizenship: Holders of this visa may become eligible for Australian citizenship.

Who Is Eligible?

To qualify for the Global Talent Visa, applicants must:

✔ Be internationally recognized for outstanding achievements in their field.
✔ Demonstrate they will contribute to Australia in their area of expertise.
✔ Have a nomination from an Australian citizen, PR holder, eligible New Zealand citizen, or an Australian organization in their field.
✔ Show they are highly skilled in one of the target sectors identified by the Australian Government.

Application Process:

1️⃣ Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI): Register interest through the Global Talent Independent (GTI) program.
2️⃣ Obtain a Nomination: Secure a nomination from an Australian organization, government agency, or an expert in your field.
3️⃣ Receive an Invitation: If successful, you’ll be invited to apply for the Subclass 858 visa.
4️⃣ Submit Visa Application: Lodge your visa application with all supporting documents.
5️⃣ Visa Outcome & PR Grant: Upon approval, you will receive Australian permanent residency.

Why Apply for the Global Talent Visa (Subclass 858)?

The Global Talent Visa (Subclass 858) offers numerous advantages for highly skilled professionals looking to live and work in Australia. Here’s why you should consider applying:

✔ Fast-Track to Permanent Residency:
The Global Talent Visa is processed faster than many other Australian visas, allowing successful applicants and their families to obtain permanent residency more quickly.

✔ No Employer Sponsorship Required:
Unlike employer-sponsored visas, this visa does not require a job offer from an Australian company. Instead, applicants only need an endorsement from a recognized organization or an expert in their field.

✔ Work and Study Flexibility:
Holders of this visa can work, study, and live in Australia permanently, with full access to employment opportunities, education, and social services.

✔ Pathway to Australian Citizenship:
Eligible visa holders can apply for Australian citizenship after meeting residency requirements.

✔ Family Benefits:
Applicants can include their spouse/partner and dependent children in the visa application, granting them permanent residency in Australia.

✔ No Points Test or Sponsorship Required:
Unlike other skilled migration visas, the Global Talent Visa does not require employer sponsorship or a points test, making the process more streamlined.

✔ Access to Australian Healthcare & Social Services:
Enjoy benefits such as Medicare (Australia’s universal healthcare system), education opportunities, and work rights.

✔ Opportunities for Skilled Professionals:
The visa is designed for individuals excelling in high-demand sectors such as technology, healthcare, resources, space, and advanced manufacturing, providing opportunities for professional growth.

Business Talent Visa (Subclass 132) – Closed to New Applicants

The Business Talent Visa (Subclass 132) was a permanent residency visa designed for experienced business owners and entrepreneurs looking to establish or expand a business in Australia. However, this visa closed to new applicants on July 1, 2021 and has been replaced with alternative business and investment visa options, such as the Business Innovation and Investment Visa (Subclass 188/888).

Alternative Visa Options

Since the Subclass 132 visa is no longer available, business owners and investors can explore these alternative pathways:

???? Business Innovation and Investment Visa (Subclass 188/888): A two-step visa process leading to permanent residency, designed for business owners, investors, and entrepreneurs.

???? Global Talent Visa (Subclass 858): For highly skilled professionals in targeted industries who can contribute to Australia’s economic growth and innovation.

Australia offers a range of visa options for entrepreneurs, investors, and business owners looking to establish or grow their businesses. These visas provide a route to permanent residency and support individuals in contributing to the Australian economy.

Business Innovation and Investment Visa (Subclass 188/888)

The Business Innovation and Investment Visa (Subclass 188/888) is designed for entrepreneurs, investors, and business owners looking to establish, manage, or expand a business in Australia. This visa provides a pathway to permanent residency through the Subclass 888 visa, allowing individuals to contribute to the Australian economy.

Subclass 188 – Provisional Visa (Temporary)

The Subclass 188 visa is a temporary visa designed for business owners, investors, and entrepreneurs who wish to start, manage, or invest in a business in Australia. It is valid for up to 5 years and serves as a pathway to permanent residency through the Subclass 888 visa.

???? Available Streams:

• Business Innovation Stream: For business owners wanting to establish or grow a business in Australia.
• Investor Stream: Requires a minimum investment of AUD 2.5 million in an Australian state or territory.
• Significant Investor Stream: Requires an AUD 5 million investment in complying Australian investments.
• Entrepreneur Stream: For individuals with an innovative business idea and at least AUD 200,000 in funding from an approved entity.
  

  Key Benefits:

  ???? Live & Work in Australia: Manage your business or investments while residing in Australia.
  ???? Pathway to Permanent Residency: Eligible applicants can transition to the Subclass 888 visa.
  ???? Family Inclusion: Include your spouse, partner, and dependent children in your visa application.
  ???? Flexible Stay Duration: Initially granted for up to 5 years, with potential extension options.

  Next Steps

  After fulfilling the business or investment requirements under the Subclass 188 visa, you can apply for the Subclass 888 visa, which grants permanent residency in Australia.

The Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186) Visa grants permanent residency to skilled workers who have been nominated by an Australian employer. It is designed for individuals with relevant skills and experience in an eligible occupation, allowing them to live and work in Australia permanently.

Key Benefits

✅ Permanent Residency: Live, work, and study in Australia indefinitely.
✅ Pathway to Citizenship: Eligible to apply for Australian citizenship if requirements are met.
✅ Work and Study Freedom: Work in your nominated occupation and access Australia’s public healthcare system (Medicare).
✅ Family Inclusion: You can include your partner and dependent children in the visa application.

Subclass 186 Visa Streams

1️⃣ Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) Stream:
✔ For those who have worked with their nominating Australian employer for at least two years on a Subclass 482 or 457 Visa.
✔ Applicants must meet skill, character, and health requirements.
✔ Employer must offer a permanent, full-time job in an eligible occupation.
✔ Age Limit: Applicants must be under 45 years old (exceptions apply).

2️⃣ Direct Entry Stream:
✔ For skilled workers who have never worked in Australia or have limited Australian work experience.
✔ Requires employer nomination for a permanent position in an eligible occupation.
✔ At least three years of relevant work experience required.
✔ A skills assessment may be required for certain occupations.
✔ Higher English language proficiency is generally required.

3️⃣ Labour Agreement Stream:
✔ Available for skilled workers nominated under a labour agreement between an Australian employer and the government.
✔ Provides permanent residency to workers who meet the eligibility requirements.

Application Process for Subclass 186 Visa

1️⃣ Employer Nomination: Obtain a job offer and nomination from an approved Australian employer.
2️⃣ Expression of Interest (EOI): Submit an EOI through SkillSelect if required.
3️⃣ Visa Application: Once nominated, submit your visa application with the necessary supporting documents.
4️⃣ Visa Outcome: If approved, you will be granted permanent residency in Australia.

Comparison: Subclass 186 vs. Other Work Visas

The Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190) is a permanent residency visa for skilled workers who have been nominated by an Australian state or territory. It allows the holder to live, work, and study anywhere in Australia while providing a pathway to Australian citizenship.

Key Benefits

✅ Permanent Residency: Live, work, and study indefinitely in Australia.
✅ State Nomination Advantage: Gain extra points for state nomination, increasing visa approval chances.
✅ Access to Medicare & Social Services: Enjoy Medicare benefits and other social services.
✅ Pathway to Citizenship: Eligible to apply for Australian citizenship after meeting residency requirements.
✅ Sponsor Family Members: Support eligible family members to join you in Australia.

Eligibility Criteria

✔ Occupation Must Be on the Skilled Occupation List: Your profession must be listed on the relevant state/territory occupation list.
✔ State/Territory Nomination: You must be nominated by an Australian state or territory before applying.
✔ Expression of Interest (EOI): Submit an EOI through SkillSelect and receive an invitation to apply.
✔ Points-Based System: Must score at least 65 points (higher scores improve chances).
✔ Age Requirement: Must be under 45 years old at the time of invitation.
✔ English Proficiency: Must meet minimum English language requirements.
✔ Health & Character Requirements: Must pass medical checks and police clearance.

Application Process

1️⃣ Check Your Occupation: Ensure your occupation is on the relevant state or territory occupation list.
2️⃣ Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI): Lodge an EOI through SkillSelect and wait for an invitation to apply.
3️⃣ Get Nominated by a State/Territory: Apply for nomination based on the criteria set by each state or territory.
4️⃣ Submit Your Visa Application: Once you receive an invitation, submit your visa application along with required documents.
5️⃣ Wait for Approval: If granted, you can live, work, and study in Australia permanently.
6️⃣ Apply for Citizenship: If eligible, you may apply for Australian citizenship after meeting the residency requirements.

Points Allocation for Subclass 190

A minimum of 65 points is required, but higher scores improve the chances of receiving an invitation.

Comparison: Subclass 190 vs. Other Skilled Visas

The Training Visa (Subclass 407) allows individuals to undertake workplace-based training or professional development in Australia. This visa is designed for those who need to enhance their skills in an eligible occupation, gain practical experience, or participate in structured training programs.

Key Benefits

✅ Hands-On Experience: Engage in structured workplace-based training.
✅ Stay Duration: Allows a stay of up to 2 years.
✅ Various Training Categories: Covers occupational training, professional development, and capacity-building programs.
✅ Family Inclusion: Applicants can include spouses and dependent children in their visa application.

Eligibility Criteria

✔ Sponsorship Required: Applicants must be sponsored by an approved Australian organization.
✔ Nominated Training Position: The sponsor must nominate or invite the applicant for structured training.
✔ English Language Skills: The applicant must meet minimum English proficiency requirements.
✔ Health & Character Requirements: A medical check and background verification are necessary.
✔ Health Insurance: Applicants must have appropriate health insurance for the duration of their stay.

Training Visa Categories

1️⃣ Occupational Training – Registration Requirement
For individuals who need on-the-job training to gain professional registration or licensing.

2️⃣ Occupational Training – Skills Enhancement
For individuals looking to improve their skills in a particular occupation through structured workplace training.

3️⃣ Professional Development Training
For overseas professionals participating in formal professional training programs conducted in Australia.

Comparison: Training Visa (Subclass 407) vs. Other Work Visas