Australia — Complete Emigration Guide 2026
26,659,922 people · Capital: Canberra · Australia and New Zealand
Your complete guide to emigrating to Australia in 2026
Overview
Australia stands out as an emigration destination thanks to its strong career opportunities, rich cultural appeal, and excellent healthcare system. Located in Oceania with a population of 26,659,922, it attracts a growing international community of workers, families, and retirees seeking a new life abroad.
Scores based on our 5-dimension scoring model. Data
Visa Pathways (15)
| Programme | Type | Min Income | Investment | Processing | Citizenship |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business Innovation and Investment (Subclass 188) | Investor / Golden Visa | — | €1,490,500 | 90d | 4y |
| Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186) | Skilled Worker Visa | — | — | 60d | — |
| Global Talent Visa (Subclass 858) | Special Talent | — | — | 60d | — |
| National Innovation Visa (Subclass 858) | Skilled Worker Visa | €9,167/mo | — | 60d | 4y |
| Pacific Engagement (Subclass 191) | Skilled Worker Visa | — | — | 60d | 4y |
| Parent Visa (Subclass 143) | Family Reunion | — | — | 60d | — |
| Partner Visa (Subclass 820/801) | Family Reunion | — | — | 60d | 4y |
| Skilled Independent (Subclass 189) | Skilled Worker Visa | — | — | 60d | 4y |
| Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190) | Skilled Worker Visa | — | — | 60d | — |
| Skilled Work Regional (Subclass 491) | Skilled Worker Visa | — | — | 60d | 4y |
| Skills in Demand Visa (Subclass 482) | Skilled Worker Visa | — | — | 60d | 6y |
| Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) | Post-Study Work Visa | — | — | 30d | — |
| Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (Subclass 482) | Skilled Worker Visa | — | — | 60d | 4y |
| Training Visa (Subclass 407) | Other Visa | — | — | 21d | — |
| Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 417) | Working Holiday Visa | — | — | 21d | — |
Cost of Living
| Item | Australia | W. Europe Avg | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rent (1BR) | €1,850 | €1,200 | +54% |
| Rent (3BR) | €2,650 | €2,000 | +32% |
| Groceries | €280 | €350 | -20% |
| Transport | €95 | €80 | +19% |
| Utilities | €185 | €150 | +23% |
| Dining (meal) | €18 | €15 | +20% |
Salary & Employment
| Sector | Entry | Median | Senior |
|---|---|---|---|
| construction | €52,500 | €75,000 | €105,000 |
| education | €43,500 | €62,000 | €87,000 |
| engineering | €62,000 | €82,000 | €110,000 |
| finance | €60,000 | €80,000 | €108,000 |
| healthcare | €58,000 | €78,000 | €105,000 |
| hospitality | €33,500 | €48,000 | €67,000 |
| it | €65,000 | €85,000 | €115,000 |
| retail | €29,500 | €42,000 | €59,000 |
Shortage Occupations
- Software Developer (IT)
- Registered Nurse (Healthcare)
- Civil Engineer (Engineering)
- Aged Care Worker (Healthcare)
Tax
Requires legal source verification
Healthcare
Education
| University | QS Rank | English Progs | Tuition (Intl) |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Melbourne | 37 | 156 | €32,000 |
| University of Sydney | 60 | 142 | €30,000 |
| University of New South Wales | 84 | 138 | €31,000 |
| Australian National University | 70 | 134 | €29,500 |
| University of Queensland | 70 | 130 | €28,500 |
Practical Info
Banking
Driving
Phone & Internet
Credentials
Quality of Life
Frequently Asked Questions
What points score do I need for a 189 visa?
The minimum is 65 points, but competitive invitations typically require 80-90+ points depending on your occupation. State nomination (190) adds 5 points; regional nomination (491) adds 15 points.
How long does Australian PR processing take?
Subclass 189 processing times range from 6-12 months. Subclass 190 can take 6-9 months after state nomination. Regional visas may process faster due to government priority.
Do I need a skills assessment?
Yes. Every applicant must obtain a positive skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority for their nominated occupation before applying. This typically takes 4-12 weeks.
What English test scores are required?
Minimum: Competent English (IELTS 6.0 in each band). For maximum points: Superior English (IELTS 8.0+). PTE Academic is also widely accepted.
Can my partner get work rights?
Yes. Partners of primary visa holders on subclass 189 and 190 receive full work rights in Australia from day one.
Start Preparing for Australia
Deep guides for moving to Australia
If your case is more specific, these focused guides go deeper than this country hub.
By topic
- → Can I move to Australia as a Accountant?
- → Can I move to Australia as a Nurse?
- → Can I move to Australia as a Software Engineer?
- → Can I move to Australia as a Teacher?
- → Can I move to Australia as a Digital Nomad?
By origin country (lanes)
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