Australia · Visa Data

All Australia Visa Pathways Compared (2026)

Key Takeaway

Compare all 18 Australia visa pathways side by side. Income requirements, processing times, costs, and path to residency. Updated 2026-03-12.

Updated 2026-03-12 · 18 pathways · Download CSV

Australia offers 18 visa and residency pathways for foreign nationals. This page compares all available routes side by side with current requirements.

Side-by-Side Comparison

Visa ProgrammeMin. IncomeSavingsProcessingDifficultyFamily
Skilled Independent (Subclass 189)240-330d5/10Yes
Business Innovation & Investor (188) — CLOSED€496,000200-350d8/10Yes
National Innovation Visa (Subclass 858)€110,000/yr90-180d5/10Yes
Pacific Engagement (Subclass 191)120-210d5/10Yes
Business Innovation and Investment (Subclass 188)€464,000120-210d7/10Yes
Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186)120-210d5/10Yes
Parent Visa (Subclass 143)120-210d4/10Yes
Partner Visa (Subclass 820/801)120-210d4/10Yes
Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)120-210d5/10Yes
Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)120-210d5/10Yes
Skilled Work Regional (Subclass 491)120-210d5/10Yes
Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)€18,420120-210d3/10Yes
Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (Subclass 482)120-210d5/10Yes
Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 417)€3,100120-210d2/10No
Skills in Demand Visa (Subclass 482)€46,000/yr60-180d5/10Yes
Skilled Work Regional (Subclass 491)180-365d5/10Yes
Global Talent Visa (Subclass 858)€97,150/yr120-210d5/10Yes
Training Visa (Subclass 407)180-390d5.0/10Yes

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many visa pathways does Australia offer?

Australia offers 18 distinct visa and residency pathways for foreign nationals, including skilled worker, family, investor, and other categories.

What is the easiest visa to get for Australia?

The easiest pathway depends on your profile. Working holiday visas (if available) have the lowest barriers. For professionals, employer-sponsored visas are the most common route.

How long does it take to get permanent residency in Australia?

The path to permanent residency in Australia typically takes 2-5 years depending on the visa category. Some skilled worker pathways offer faster PR routes.

Can I bring my family to Australia?

Most long-term visa categories in Australia allow family reunification for spouses and dependent children, though specific requirements vary by pathway.

Do I need a job offer to move to Australia?

Not all pathways require a job offer. Australia may offer self-employment, investment, digital nomad, or points-based pathways that don't require employer sponsorship.

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