Easiest Ways to Get PR in Australia in 2026 (State-wise Guide & Tips)

Being stuck in the same job market with low growth and zero stability pushes many people to look for countries that actually value skilled workers. That’s exactly why PR in Australia has become a top goal, the country has a strong economy, solid salaries, and a lifestyle that actually feels worth the grind. A PR visa in Australia is valid for 5 years, allowing you and your family to live, work, and study with long-term security. After living in Australia for 4 years on PR, you can apply for citizenship and unlock even more opportunities.

Why is it Easy to Get PR in Australia?

Australia is one of the countries where it is easy for Indians to get a PR. There are several reasons for it. Some of these reasons are as follows-

Increased Migration Intake

The permanent migration intake under the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) has stayed high. For 2025–26, the permanent Migration Program is capped at 185,000 places, with a major portion reserved for skilled applicants.

Relaxed Occupation Lists and Processing

States continue to update and simplify occupation and nomination requirements. For example, many states reduced strict work experience or employer sponsorship conditions in priority sectors such as healthcare, teaching, engineering and community services. This makes it easier for skilled applicants to meet state nomination criteria.

Efficient Immigration Program:

Australia’s immigration system continues to follow structured and predictable processing. As long as you meet the eligibility criteria, the PR pathway remains straightforward. The skilled stream still receives the largest share of places, making it accessible for qualified applicants.

Benefits of Getting PR in Australia

When it comes to having an Australian PR visa as opposed to other visa types, it continues to offer a wide range of long-term advantages. Some updated benefits include:

• With an Australian PR visa, a person can travel to New Zealand and may be eligible to apply for a New Zealand visa depending on current entry rules.
  
• A person with a PR visa has the right to apply for many government jobs in Australia, especially those open to permanent residents.
  
• After holding an Australian PR visa for two years, a person may become eligible for certain social security benefits under the residence waiting period rules.
  
• With a PR visa, a person can live, work and travel freely in any part of Australia without restrictions.
  
• An Australian PR visa allows a person to pursue higher education in Australian universities and access local fee structures or apply for specific student loan schemes available to permanent residents.
  
• If the relatives of a person with a PR visa meet the eligibility requirements, he or she can sponsor them for visas or PR under the family migration stream.

Visas that Lead to Permanent Residency in Australia 

Australia offers multiple pathways for permanent residency. The following are the visas that can lead to permanent residency in Australia.

Visa Type	Visa Name	Description	Leads to PR?
Skilled Migration (Points-Based)	Skilled Independent Visa (189)	Points-tested visa for skilled workers without sponsorship.	Direct PR
Skilled Migration (Points-Based)	Skilled Nominated Visa (190)	Points-tested visa requiring nomination by a state or territory.	Direct PR
Skilled Regional (Provisional)	Skilled Work Regional Visa (491)	Provisional visa for skilled workers who live and work in regional areas.	PR via 191 after meeting 3-year income and residence rules
Employer-Sponsored	Employer Nomination Scheme Visa (186)	Permanent visa for skilled workers sponsored by an approved employer.	Direct PR
Employer-Sponsored (Regional)	Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional Visa (494)	Provisional employer-sponsored visa for regional jobs.	PR via 191 after meeting requirements
Regional PR Pathway	Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) Visa (191)	PR visa for eligible 491 and 494 holders who meet regional rules.	Direct PR
Family & Partner	Partner Visa (820/801)	Onshore partner pathway from temporary to permanent residency.	PR via 801
Family & Partner	Partner Visa (309/100)	Offshore partner pathway from temporary to permanent residency.	PR via 100
Family & Parent	Contributory Parent Visa (143)	Permanent residency for eligible parents of Australian citizens or PR holders.	Direct PR
Family & Parent	Parent Visa (103)	Permanent parent visa with longer processing times.	Direct PR
Business & Investment	Business Innovation and Investment Visa (188)	Provisional business and investment visa.	PR via 888
Business & Investment	Business Innovation and Investment Permanent Visa (888)	Permanent visa for eligible subclass 188 holders.	Direct PR
Global Talent	Global Talent Visa (858)	Direct permanent visa for highly skilled individuals in priority sectors.	Direct PR

Also Read: Australia Work Visa: Types, Requirements, Cost

Which State Is Easy to Get PR in Australia?

For people planning to migrate to Australia, Tasmania continues to be one of the more accessible options for state nomination. The state remains popular among international workers because of its simpler nomination pathways and clear applicant categories. Tasmania does not follow strict occupation ceilings the way some larger states do, and its focus is often on long-term residence, study, or genuine employment rather than only occupation lists.

This means applicants with varied skill backgrounds can still find opportunities if they meet the state’s eligibility categories. While every state updates its requirements each migration year, Tasmania is still considered one of the easier pathways for PR for many applicants.

Other States Where It is Easy to Get PR in Australia 

As of 2026 migration program, several Australian states and territories offer practical pathways under their state nomination and regional migration programs. The ease of getting PR still depends on your occupation, demand and how competitive each state is, but these states currently provide comparatively better opportunities.

• Queensland (QLD): Queensland received one of the stronger nomination allocations for 2025 to 2026 with around 1850 places for the Skilled Nominated Visa 190 and 750 places for the Skilled Work Regional Visa 491. This gives skilled applicants a solid chance, especially in healthcare, engineering and trades.
  
• Northern Territory (NT): The Northern Territory has smaller allocations but lower competition. It received around 850 places for the 190 visa and around 800 places for the 491 visa. It remains suitable for applicants willing to live and work in regional or remote areas.
  
• Western Australia (WA): Western Australia continues to offer balanced migration options. For 2025 to 2026 it has around 2000 places for the 190 visa and 1400 places for the 491 visa. Both metropolitan and regional areas offer opportunities, especially in health, construction and education.
  
• South Australia (SA): South Australia has around 1350 places for the 190 visa and around 900 for the 491 visa in 2025 to 2026. It remains a good option for applicants whose skills align with its demand lists, particularly in ICT, engineering and trade occupations.

Here is a table for the top states in Australia where it is easy to get a PR.

State or Territory	Visa 190 Allocation 2025 to 2026	Visa 491 Allocation 2025 to 2026	Relative PR Opportunity
Queensland (QLD)	1850	750	High
Northern Territory (NT)	850	800	Moderate
Western Australia (WA)	2000	1400	Moderate to High
South Australia (SA)	1350	900	Moderate

To learn more about getting an Australian PR, watch this video:

Basic Eligibility Requirements to Apply for an Australian PR Visa

You can apply for an Australian PR visa through multiple categories, each with specific eligibility requirements. The main framework is based on a points system. To be eligible for Australian PR, candidates must score at least 65 points. You also need to demonstrate English proficiency and be under 45 years of age. Your occupation must appear on the Skilled Occupation Lists (MLTSSL, STSOL, or ROL), which are updated regularly based on labour market needs.

Factor	Points	Notes
Age	18–24 years – 25 points 25–32 years – 30 points 33–39 years – 25 points 40–44 years – 15 points 45+ – Not eligible	Points awarded at time of invitation
English Language Ability	Competent (IELTS 6) – 0 pointsP roficient (IELTS 7) – 10 points Superior (IELTS 8) – 20 points	Must meet test requirements; use IELTS / PTE / TOEFL equivalence
Skilled Work Experience (Overseas)	3–4 years – 5 points 5–7 years – 10 points 8+ years – 15 points	Must be in nominated occupation; counted within last 10 years
Skilled Work Experience (Australia)	1–2 years – 5 points 3–4 years – 10 points 5–7 years – 15 points 8+ years – 20 points	Maximum combined work points (Australia + overseas) = 20 points
Educational Qualifications	Doctorate (PhD) – 20 points Bachelor / Master – 15 points Diploma / Trade – 10 points	Qualification must be assessed by relevant assessing authority
Other Recognized Points	Australian study requirement (2+ years) – 5 points Professional Year in Australia – 5 points Master by research / PhD from Australia – 10 points	Points vary based on official criteria; check subclass eligibility
Nomination / Regional Bonuses	State nomination (Subclass 190) – 5 points Regional sponsorship (Subclass 491) – 15 points	Must meet state / regional nomination requirements

To successfully apply for PR, ensure your occupation is on the relevant Skilled Occupation List, and that you meet the age, English, and work experience requirements. You can use Australia’s SkillSelect system to check your eligibility before submitting an application.

What Documents are Required for PR in Australia?

Is it Easy to get a PR in Australia? Yes. If you meet the requirements.The following are the general documents you require for PR in Australia. The requirements might vary depending on the PR visa category. For example, Subclass 190, 189, etc. You can check the Australian Department of Home Affairs for the exact requirements.

• Identification documents including passport, national ID, and birth certificate.
  
• Proof of educational qualifications such as academic transcripts and degree certificates.
  
• Proof of employment and skills, for example a skills assessment report from relevant authorities such as ACS for engineers or VETASSESS for other professions, and salary slips.
  
• Proof of English proficiency through documents like PTE, IELTS, or TOEFL scores.
  
• Medical examination report following Australian immigration guidelines.
  
• Police clearance certificate from all countries where you have lived for 12 months or more in the last 10 years.
  
• Proof of sufficient funds to cover living expenses, for example bank statements.
  
• Proof of relationship with family members if applying with family.
  
• Additional supporting documents such as state nomination letter for state-sponsored visas, Form 80 for personal particulars, and Expression of Interest confirmation.
  
• Any other documents requested by the Department of Home Affairs.

How to Apply for PR in Australia?

Are you wondering -is it easy to get PR in Australia? The answer is yes. You can apply for a PR if you follow the steps below:

1. Confirm you qualify under a PR visa category, such as skilled (189, 190, 491), employer-sponsored, family/partner, or regional route.
   
2. Get a valid skills assessment if applying under a skilled visa. Your occupation must match an eligible ANZSCO code and be recognized by an approved assessing authority like ACS or VETASSESS.
   
3. Take an accepted English language test such as IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL and secure the minimum required score or higher depending on visa requirements.
   
4. Create an account on SkillSelect and submit an Expression of Interest (EOI). Include accurate information about your occupation, skills assessment, English score, and other eligibility factors.
   
5. Wait for an Invitation to Apply (ITA). Invitations depend on your points score, occupation demand, quota availability, and for state-nominated or regional visas, state or territory nomination.
   
6. Once invited, gather all required documents, including identity, education, skills assessment, proof of work experience, English test scores, health and character clearance, and additional documents such as state nomination letters, employer sponsorship, or family proof if applicable.
   
7. Lodge your visa application through ImmiAccount within the prescribed time, usually within 60 days of invitation for skilled visas, with complete and accurate documentation.
   
8. Wait for visa processing. Processing times vary by visa type, demand, and completeness of application. Skilled visas typically take 6 to 12 months.
   
9. Once the visa is granted, if you are outside Australia, travel before the initial entry expiry to activate your PR status. You will then have full rights to live and work permanently, travel on the 5-year travel facility, and access PR benefits.
   
10. After fulfilling residency and other citizenship conditions, usually living in Australia on PR for a certain period and meeting residence and character criteria, you may apply for Australian citizenship.

Learn more about how you can apply for the Australian PR:

How Much Does PR Cost in Australia?

The Australian PR fees vary depending on the visa type. You will have to pay additional fees for English tests, skills assessment (AUD 300 to AUD 1,000), medical tests, and other requirements.

Visa Subclass	Applicant	Visa Application
Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)	Primary Applicant	AUD 4,910
	Additional Applicant (18 and over)	AUD 2,455
	Dependent Child (under 18)	AUD 1,230
Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)	Primary Applicant	AUD 4,910
	Additional Applicant (18 and over)	AUD 2,455
	Dependent Child (under 18)	AUD 1,230
Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491)	Primary Applicant	AUD 4,910
	Additional Applicant (18 and over)	AUD 2,455
	Dependent Child (under 18)	AUD 1,230

Note: In addition to the above, budget for costs such as skills assessment, English proficiency tests, medical examinations, police clearance, and other supporting documents depending on your visa subclass.

How Long Does PR Process Take in Australia?

The Australian PR processing time depends on the visa type. The processing time also depends on the completeness of the application and the volume of applications received.

Visa Subclass	Typical Processing Time
Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)	About 8 to 9 months for most complete applications
Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)	Often 12 to 16 months, depending on state nomination and application completeness
Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491)	Typically about 19 to 25 months for many applicants, though regional sponsorship and document completeness may affect timing

Also Read: Australia Working Holiday Visa for Indians: A New Opportunity for Young Travelers

Key Facts About Australian PR You Should Know Before Applying

Now that we have read about the benefits of an Australian PR Visa let us look at some of the important points that will help you in your visa journey.

Will You Get a Refund If Your PR Application is Rejected?

If your PR application is rejected, the visa application fee is generally not refunded. Refunds are only possible in specific cases such as overpayment or administrative error. Also, having marginally qualifying points does not guarantee an invitation to apply.

Do You Need to Renew Your Australian PR Visa?

You must travel to Australia at least once to validate your PR and apply for a Resident Return Visa (RRV) before your PR expires, typically every five years. If you are outside Australia when the PR expires and do not hold a valid RRV, your PR status will lapse. After living in Australia continuously on PR for four years, you can apply for citizenship. Some applicants maintain an RRV if their home country does not allow dual citizenship.

How Does PR Status Affect Your Employment Rights?

PR status gives you the right to work anywhere and for any employer in Australia. However, it does not provide immediate access to unemployment benefits during the first two years. You can consider income protection insurance to cover involuntary redundancy or disability during this period.

Can You Really Get Australian PR in 7 Months?

No. PR cannot be guaranteed in seven months. Processing times vary depending on visa type, occupation, completeness of the application, and demand. Skilled visas typically take 8 to 16 months, while regional visas may take up to 25 months.

What Benefits Do Australian PR Holders Get?

PR holders have almost all the same rights as Australian citizens except voting. Benefits include access to Medicare, discounted healthcare, child care support, education loans, and certain tax benefits. PR also allows you to sponsor eligible relatives for visas.

Is it Difficult to Get a PR in Australia?

The process is competitive but achievable if you meet eligibility requirements. Generally, you need to meet points, skill, and English language requirements, have sufficient funds, and complete at least two years of continuous stay in Australia. Compared to many European countries, Australia’s residency requirement is shorter.

How can I Get the Australian PR Easily?

The easiest path is through the Skilled Migration Program such as the Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) or employment-sponsored visas. Meeting continuous stay requirements, scoring sufficient points, and fulfilling English language and skill assessment requirements are key to success.

In which city of Australia is PR easy?

Tasmania is considered the easiest state to obtain PR due to lower competition, high demand for skilled professionals, simplified visa procedures, and lower cost of living compared to cities like Sydney or Melbourne. Other states like South Australia, Queensland, and Western Australia also provide regional opportunities.

How Long Does it Take to Get Citizenship in Australia?

PR is the pathway to citizenship. You can apply after four years of residence in Australia, which includes at least one year as a permanent resident. Additional requirements include demonstrating good character, English proficiency, and knowledge of Australia’s values.

Also Read: Do’s and Don’ts of Student Visa Interview

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Acquiring an Australian PR visa is achievable if you meet the eligibility criteria and score well on the points system. Australian PR holders enjoy the right to live, work, and study in the country, though they are not citizens and cannot vote or apply for government jobs. Keep learning and stay connected with Leverage Edu for more detailed, student-friendly guides on PR in Australia. If this helped you, don’t forget to share, rate, and drop a comment. Your support helps more students access the right information and make smart migration decisions.