Best Way to Get PR in Australia: Steps, Tips & Benefits 2025

Written by

Sukanta Bera

Fact check by

Divyansh Chaudhari

Updated on

Jun 06,2025

Best Way to Get PR in Australia – Expert Guide (2025) - TerraTern

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Permanent Residency (PR) in Australia is used to offer an opportunity with benefits including freedom to live and work in Australia, access to the public healthcare system, can provide sponsorship for their relatives, and a clear pathway to Australian citizenship. With a strong economy of Australia’s, best education, and high quality of life, it’s no wonder Australia continues to attract skilled individuals and families from around the world.

However, the best way to get PR in Australia is through a competitive process. With dynamic immigration policies, point-based skill assessments, and evolving visa requirements, understanding the best way to get PR in Australia in 2025 requires more than just meeting the basic PR criteria. 

 

Latest Facts & News

  • Australia-India Migration Agreement: Recent agreements have made immigration paths easier for skilled professionals and students from India.

  • Point-Based System Update: The minimum required points for most skilled visas remain 65, but higher scores (80–85) significantly boost invitation chances.

  • Skilled Occupation List (SOL) Expansion: Occupations in healthcare, IT, engineering, and trades are in high demand.

  • State Sponsorship Bonuses: States like Tasmania and Queensland offer additional points and faster processing for regional visas.

  • Post-Study Work Rights: International students can now work in Australia for up to 4 years after graduation, easing the transition to PR.

  • Employer-Sponsored Visas: The ENS (186) and TSS (482) visas are popular for those with job offers.

  • Family and Partner Streams: Spouses, parents, and children of Australian citizens or PR holders can apply for PR.

  • Regional Visas (Subclass 491): Living and working in regional areas gives extra points and faster invites.

  • English Proficiency Tests: IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL scores are mandatory for all skilled migration visas.

  • Processing Times: PR applications can take from 6 months to over a year, depending on visa type and individual circumstances.

Also Read: Global Talent Visa Australia: Guide to Fast-Track PR

What is the Best Way to Get PR in Australia?

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It is really important to understand what is the best way to get PR in Australia is. So, Permanent Residency (PR) in Australia allows non-citizens to live freely, work, and study in the country wherever they want. With PR status in Australia, individuals enjoy many of the rights and privileges of Australian citizens, including access to government services, healthcare, and the ability to apply for citizenship after meeting certain residency requirements for Australia.

For those aiming to secure Australian PR in 2025, it’s really important for them to understand the best way to get PR in Australia by using the best main pathways depend largely on their background, whether they’re a skilled professional, international student, investor, or looking to reunite with family. Choosing the right visa stream in Australia is crucial for a successful application.

Benefits of Australian PR:

  • Live and work in Australia indefinitely

  • Access to Medicare (public healthcare)

  • Apply for Australian citizenship (after the eligibility period)

  • Sponsor eligible family members

  • Travel freely in and out of Australia

Overview of Australian Permanent Residency (PR)

Australia Permanent Residency is a legal status that allows non-EU citizens to live and work in Australia indefinitely. Unlike temporary residence permits, which must be renewed periodically, Australia's permanent residency grants long-term security and stability, allowing holders to enjoy the same rights as Australian citizens in many areas, such as healthcare, education, and the labour market. 

This status is often a stepping stone to full citizenship and provides the flexibility to travel freely within the Schengen Area. With Australia's permanent residency, individuals can build a future in one of Europe’s most prosperous and culturally vibrant nations, benefiting from its high standard of living and robust economic opportunities.

What is the Best Way to Get PR in Australia through the Main Pathways in 2025?

For those aiming to secure Australian PR in 2025, it’s really important for them to understand what the best way to get PR in Australia is, which depends largely on their background, whether they’re a skilled professional, international student, investor, or looking to reunite with family. Below is the guideline for what is the best way to get PR in Australia:

  • Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) – For highly skilled workers not sponsored by an employer or family member.

  • Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190) – Requires nomination by an Australian state or territory government.

  • Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491) – For skilled workers willing to live and work in regional areas.

  • Employer-Sponsored Visas (Subclass 186, 482 to PR pathway) – For those with employer backing in high-demand occupations.

  • Graduate Temporary Visa (Subclass 485) to PR – Ideal for international students completing their studies in Australia.

  • Partner or Family Visas (Subclass 309, 820) – For those with close family or spouse in Australia.

  • Business Innovation and Investment Visa (Subclass 188/888) – For entrepreneurs and investors looking to establish business interests.

Each of these visa options in Australia has specific eligibility criteria, including occupation lists, points test requirements, English proficiency, and health and character checks is considered one of the best way to get PR in Australia.

Also Read: SOP for Australia: Format, Components, Tips & Sample

Latest Step-by-Step Process to Get PR in Australia 2025: Expert's Guide

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Applying for Permanent Residency (PR) in Australia can be complex, but the best way to get PR in Australia is to break it down into clear, actionable steps, making the process more manageable. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the best way to get PR in Australia:

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility

Before you apply for PR in Australia, ensure you meet the core eligibility criteria.

  • Age: Must be under 45 years at the time of invitation.

  • Occupation: Your job must be on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL) relevant to the visa type.

  • Points Requirement: You need a minimum of 65 points under the General Skilled Migration (GSM) points test.

Step 2: Choose the Right Visa Category

Selecting the correct visa subclass for Australia based on your profile is essential. Below are the popular PR main pathways in Australia:

  • Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) – No sponsorship needed.

  • Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190) – Requires state/territory nomination.

  • Skilled Work Regional Visa (Subclass 491) – Live/work in regional Australia.

  • Employer-Sponsored Visa (Subclass 186 or 482-to-186 pathway) – Requires a job offer from an Australian employer.

  • Family & Partner Visas (e.g., 309, 820) – For partners or relatives of Australian citizens/PR holders.

  • Business Innovation & Investment Visa (Subclass 188/888) – For entrepreneurs and investors.

Step 3: Get Your Skills Assessed

A positive skills assessment from an authorised body is mandatory, which is considered one of the best ways to get PR in Australia.

  • Assessment Authorities will be based on occupation:

    • VETASSESS

    • Engineers Australia

    • Australian Computer Society (ACS)

    • AITSL, CPA, ANMAC, etc.

Step 4: Take an English Proficiency Test

You must demonstrate English language competency through an approved test for PR approval:

  • Accepted Tests: IELTS, PTE Academic, TOEFL iBT, OET, or Cambridge C1 Advanced.

  • Required Scores:

    • Competent English (e.g., IELTS 6.0 in each band) – minimum for visa

    • Proficient or Superior English – awards additional points

Step 5: Submit Expression of Interest (EOI) via SkillSelect

The skill select platform of PR allows you to express your interest in migrating to Australia.

  • Register and submit your EOI online.

  • Enter accurate information about your skills, qualifications, and English results.

  • Select one or more visa types (e.g., 189, 190, 491)

How to Boost Your PR Points for Australia in 2025? Experts Guide

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Increasing your PR points score is the way to improve your chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for Permanent Residency in Australia. The higher your score in PR, the more competitive you become in the SkillSelect system in Australia for PR. Below are the best ways to get PR in Australia and boost your PR points in 2025, and improve your ranking.

Experts Tips to Improve Your Australian Points Score in 2025

Use the following best way to get PR in Australia and maximise your points in the General Skilled Migration (GSM) points test:

Category

Strategy

Maximum Points

English Proficiency

IELTS 8 or equivalent

20

Overseas Work Experience

8+ years

15

Australian Work Experience

8+ years

20

Education

PhD or Master’s Degree

20

State Nomination

Subclass 190

5

Regional Nomination

Subclass 491

15

Professional Year

In Accounting/IT/Engineering

5

Partner Skills

With full assessment & English

10

Single Applicant

No spouse/de facto partner

10

Also Read: How to Move to Australia from India? Jobs & Immigration

Best Way to Get PR in Australia with Courses and Occupations in 2025

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Choosing the best way to get PR in Australia through a course or occupation can significantly improve your chances of securing Permanent Residency (PR) in Australia. In 2025, Australia continues to prioritize skilled workers in specific areas with labour shortages, especially across healthcare, engineering, IT, and trades.

Top PR Courses in Australia 2025

Enrolling in a course aligned with Australia’s Skilled Occupation List (SOL) will help professionals to secure higher employability, visa eligibility, and PR prospects.

Top Course Areas

Degrees/Programs

Nursing

Bachelor of Nursing, Master of Nursing

Information Technology (IT)

Bachelor of IT, Cybersecurity, Data Science

Engineering

Civil, Electrical, Mechanical Engineering

Hospitality & Cookery

Commercial Cookery, Hospitality Management

Trades

Carpentry, Plumbing, Automotive Tech

Education

Early Childhood, Primary Education

STEM Degrees

Maths, Science, Research-based programs

 

In-Demand Occupations for PR in Australia 2025

Australia’s Skilled Occupation Lists, including MLTSSL, STSOL, and ROL, feature high-demand jobs that offer a direct or regional PR pathway, which is considered one of the best ways to get PR in Australia.

Occupation Category

Sample Roles

Healthcare

Registered Nurse, Aged Care Worker, Midwife

IT & Tech

Software Engineer, Data Analyst, Cybersecurity Specialist

Engineering

Civil, Mechanical, Electrical Engineer

Education

Early Childhood Teacher, Special Needs

Trades

Electrician, Plumber, Carpenter

Hospitality

Surveyor, Project Manager

Construction

Chef, Baker, Pastry Cook

 

Also Read: Skilled Labour Visa Australia: Latest Process, Jobs, Fees

Top Easy States and Regions for PR in Australia 2025

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The best way to get PR in Australia Permanent Residency (PR), choosing the right state or regional area, can make a significant difference. Many Australian states offer nomination pathway programs with specific criteria, additional points, and faster processing, especially for applicants willing to live and work in regional areas.

Tasmania

Tasmania is considered one of the easiest states for Permanent Residency (PR) in Australia, thanks to its inclusive eligibility criteria and regional incentives.

Regional Benefits:

  • Extra 15 points for Subclass 491 applicants (Designated Regional Area)

  • Lower competition compared to major states

  • Faster processing for State Nomination

  • Graduates from Tasmanian institutions are prioritized for nomination

Popular Occupations in Tasmania:

  • Nurses and Aged Care Workers

  • Engineers

  • IT Professionals

  • Chefs and Hospitality Workers

  • Trades (Electricians, Plumbers)

Queensland

Queensland offers a range of opportunities through its Skilled Migration Program in Australia, especially for professionals in high-demand sectors and regional workers.

Skilled Nomination Quotas (2023–24):

  • Subclass 190 (Skilled Nominated Visa): 900 spots

  • Subclass 491 (Skilled Work Regional Visa): 650 spots

Basic Requirements:

  • Age under 45

  • Competent English (IELTS 6.0 or equivalent)

  • Minimum 65 points on the GSM points test

  • Valid Skills Assessment

  • Health and Character Checks

Targeted Occupations in Queensland:

  • Registered Nurses

  • Civil Engineers

  • ICT Professionals

  • Secondary School Teachers

  • Construction Trades

Also Read: Comprehensive Guide to the Australia Study Visa Process

Latest Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for Australian PR in 2025

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The best way to get PR in Australia is to avoid even minor errors, which unnecessarily delay or jeopardise your application. Being aware of common mistakes and avoiding them can significantly improve your chances of success in 2025.

Incorrect Documentation

Submitting incorrect, incomplete, or improperly formatted documents is a leading cause of PR delays and rejections.

  • Ensure all documents (certificates, references, transcripts) are in English or include certified translations.

  • Follow the exact format required by the Department of Home Affairs.

  • Verify the validity and accuracy of your passport, skills assessment, and English test results.

  • Upload documents under the correct categories during submission.

Low English Scores

English proficiency plays a crucial role in both eligibility and points calculation.

  • Many applicants submit with just competent English (IELTS 6), missing out on valuable points.

  • Aim for IELTS 7 or 8 (or PTE/TOEFL equivalents) to gain 10–20 points on the GSM test.

  • Retake the test if needed to boost your PR score.

Missing Deadlines

Timing is critical in the PR process.

  • After receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA), you only have 60 days to submit your full application.

  • Delays in gathering documents or arranging medical and police checks can result in missed deadlines.

  • Use a timeline checklist to stay on track.

Ignoring State or Rural Opportunities

Many applicants focus only on Subclass 189 and overlook state or regional nominations, which offer easier access and more points.

  • Consider applying for Subclass 190 (State Nominated) or Subclass 491 (Regional) visas.

  • These options provide 5 to 15 extra points and are often less competitive.

  • Smaller states like Tasmania, South Australia, and the Northern Territory have broader occupation lists and support graduate retention.

 

Conclusion

In summary, there are many advantages of having permanent Australian residency for people who want to stay in Europe for prolonged periods because it allows access to good medical care, a high standard of education, and robust economies. The best way to get PR in Australia is to meet requirements such as having a legal residence and showing that you have money can help applicants secure this indefinite status. This also provides a route towards acquiring Australian nationality, thus increasing your rights within EU territories. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, an expert worker, or just planning to bring back relatives home, having an Australian permanent residence permit is an excellent option towards a stable future right in the centre of Europe. 

To learn more about the best way to get PR in Australia, visit TerraTern now.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the minimum points required for Australia PR?

You need a minimum of 65 points to be eligible, but higher scores increase your chances of receiving an invitation.

Which visa is the easiest for PR in Australia?

The Skilled Independent (189), Skilled Nominated (190), and Regional (491) visas are the most accessible for skilled workers seeking PR.

Can international students get PR in Australia?

Yes, international students can apply for PR through post-study work visas and skilled migration pathways, especially after gaining local experience.

How long does it take to get PR in Australia?

Processing times vary by visa but usually range from 6 months to 1 year or more, depending on individual circumstances and demand.

What are the best occupations for PR in Australia?

Healthcare, IT, engineering, skilled trades, and hospitality jobs are in high demand and offer strong PR opportunities.