About Visas for Australia
Australia offers more than 100 visa subclasses covering every conceivable purpose of travel and stay. From short-term tourist visas to permanent residence and citizenship, the right visa depends on your nationality, the purpose of your visit, your skills and qualifications, and your personal circumstances.
This page provides a comprehensive overview of the principal visa subclasses for which Ausking provides migration assistance. Click any visa name to learn more about its eligibility, application process, and processing time.
Skilled Migration Visas
The skilled migration program is the largest component of Australia's permanent migration intake. Key subclasses include:
- Subclass 189 — Skilled Independent (permanent, points-tested)
- Subclass 190 — Skilled Nominated (permanent, points-tested, state nomination)
- Subclass 491 — Skilled Work Regional (provisional 5 years, regional)
- Subclass 191 — Permanent Residence (for 491 holders after 3 years)
- Subclass 482 — Skills in Demand (employer-sponsored, 2-4 years)
- Subclass 186 — Employer Nomination Scheme (permanent)
- Subclass 494 — Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional
- Subclass 858 — Global Talent Independent (permanent, fast-track)
Family and Partner Visas
Family migration allows Australian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor close family members. Key subclasses include:
- Subclass 820/801 — Partner (onshore, temporary → permanent)
- Subclass 309/100 — Partner (offshore, temporary → permanent)
- Subclass 103 — Parent (offshore, permanent)
- Subclass 143 — Contributory Parent (offshore, permanent)
- Subclass 804 — Aged Parent (onshore)
- Subclass 101/802 — Child visa
- Subclass 116/836 — Carer visa
Student and Graduate Visas
Australia is one of the world's top study destinations, with over 700,000 international students. Key student visas include:
- Subclass 500 — Student visa (main study visa)
- Subclass 485 — Temporary Graduate (post-study work rights)
- Subclass 407 — Training visa
- Subclass 590 — Student Guardian
Business and Investment Visas
Australia welcomes business migrants who can contribute to the economy. Key subclasses include:
- Subclass 188A — Business Innovation (provisional)
- Subclass 188B — Investor (provisional)
- Subclass 188C — Significant Investor (AUD 5M, fast-track)
- Subclass 188E — Entrepreneur
- Subclass 888 — Business Innovation and Investment (permanent)
- Subclass 132 — Business Talent (closed to new applications)
Visitor and Short-Stay Visas
For tourism, business visits and short stays:
- Subclass 600 — Visitor visa
- Subclass 601 — Electronic Travel Authority (ETA)
- Subclass 651 — eVisitor
- Subclass 462 — Work and Holiday (for select countries)
- Subclass 417 — Working Holiday
Resident Return and Other Visas
For existing permanent residents and special cases:
- Subclass 155 — Resident Return (5-year or 1-year travel facility)
- Subclass 157 — Resident Return (3-month)
- Subclass 124 — Distinguished Talent (legacy)
- Subclass 151 — Former Resident visa
Frequently Asked Questions
Which visa is right for me?
The right visa depends on your age, qualifications, work experience, English ability, family ties in Australia, and financial situation. Ausking provides a free initial assessment to identify the best pathway.
Can I switch between visa subclasses?
In many cases yes, but it depends on
How much do Australian visas cost?
Visa Application Charges (VACs) are set by the Department of Home Affairs and change annually on 1 July. Current VACs range from AUD 200 for short-term visitors to AUD 4,640+ for skilled permanent visas.
Discuss Your Visa Options
With more than 100 visa subclasses, finding the right one can be overwhelming. Our registered migration agents can identify the most suitable pathway and guide you through the application process.
Phone: +61 (03) 9670 7567 | Email: mel@auskingvisa.com