What is the Average Salary in Canada?
The average salary in Canada is around CAD 5,840 gross per month, or CAD 70,000 annually, while the median monthly salary is approximately CAD 4,000. Earnings vary by occupation, experience and province, with mining, oil and gas, utilities, information technology and finance among the better-paying industries.
Canada has a strong job market in engineering, construction, technology and healthcare, particularly in Alberta, Ontario and British Columbia. Each province sets its own minimum wage, while the federal minimum wage is CAD 18.15 per hour for federally regulated workplaces. Take-home pay depends on income taxes, Canada Pension Plan (CPP) and Employment Insurance (EI) contributions. Canada also offers various work permit options and pathways to permanent residency (PR), giving skilled workers opportunities to build long-term careers.
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Canada has strong demand for skilled workers across technology, healthcare, engineering, finance and skilled trades. Software engineers, registered nurses, civil engineers, accountants and electricians are among the in-demand occupations. Gross monthly salaries range from approximately CAD 3,500 for entry-level roles to CAD 15,800 for senior software engineering positions. Actual earnings depend on experience, qualifications, specialisation, employer and province, with senior and specialised roles generally commanding higher salaries.
| Occupation | Median Annual Salary | Chances of Visa Sponsorship |
|---|---|---|
| IT & Software | CAD 117,500 | Moderate to High |
| Engineering | CAD 101,000 | High |
| Healthcare | CAD 115,400 | Very High |
| Nursing | CAD 90,000 | Very High |
| Skilled Trades | CAD 72,800 | Very High |
| Accounting & Finance | CAD 83,900 | Moderate |
| Marketing | CAD 74,000 | Moderate |
| Human Resources | CAD 85,000 | Moderate |
| Logistics & Supply Chain | CAD 61,300 | Moderate |
| Teaching | CAD 95,000 | High |
| Construction Management | CAD 101,300 | Moderate to High |
| Hospitality & Tourism | CAD 54,100 | Moderate |
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2 Million Jobs in Canada Over the Next Decade
The highest-paying jobs in Canada are mainly in healthcare, executive management, engineering, technology and finance. Surgeons, cardiologists, anaesthesiologists, psychiatrists, family physicians, chief executive officers, engineering managers, IT directors, petroleum engineers and financial managers are among the top earners, with gross monthly salaries of approximately CAD 9,800 to CAD 34,900. Pay depends on specialisation, qualifications, experience, province and employer, and many senior roles also come with pension plans, health insurance and dental coverage.
| Job | Median Monthly Salary | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Surgeons | CAD 34,900 | CAD 419,200 |
| Medical Specialists | CAD 25,900 | CAD 311,300 |
| Family Physicians and General Practitioners | CAD 19,400 | CAD 232,200 |
| Senior Managers in Financial, Communications and Other Business Services | CAD 16,700 | CAD 200,000 |
| Engineering Managers | CAD 12,400 | CAD 149,300 |
| Computer and Information Systems Managers | CAD 11,600 | CAD 138,700 |
| Petroleum Engineers | CAD 11,200 | CAD 135,000 |
| Nurse Practitioners | CAD 10,700 | CAD 128,000 |
| Lawyers | CAD 10,400 | CAD 124,300 |
| Software Engineers | CAD 9,800 | CAD 117,500 |
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Toronto, Vancouver and Montréal are Canada’s largest employment hubs, with strong demand in technology, finance, life sciences and digital media. Calgary and Edmonton are known for energy alongside growing technology and logistics sectors, while Ottawa combines federal government jobs with a significant technology industry.
Canada and Australia both offer strong earning potential in technology, healthcare, engineering, finance, mining and skilled trades. Average gross monthly earnings are around CAD 5,840 in Canada and approximately AUD 6,843 in Australia. Both countries have public healthcare and employment protections, and take-home pay in each depends on income tax, social contributions and individual circumstances.
| Factor | Canada | Australia |
|---|---|---|
| Average gross monthly salary | CAD 5,840 | AUD 6,843 |
| Average gross annual salary | CAD 70,080 | AUD 82,118 |
| Estimated monthly income tax and contributions | CAD 1,366 | AUD 1,650 |
| Estimated monthly take-home pay | CAD 4,474 | AUD 5,193 |
| Estimated monthly living costs | CAD 3,346 | AUD 3,500 |
| Estimated monthly savings | CAD 1,128 | AUD 1,693 |
| Estimated annual savings | CAD 13,536 | AUD 20,316 |
The monthly cost of living in Canada for a single person ranges from approximately CAD 1,800 to CAD 3,945, depending on the city and lifestyle. Housing, groceries, utilities and transportation account for most monthly expenses. Toronto and Vancouver have higher rental costs, while Montréal, Calgary and Edmonton offer relatively affordable living options.
| Expense | Estimated Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Rent (One-Bedroom Apartment) | CAD 1,100–CAD 2,700 |
| Utilities and Internet | CAD 180–CAD 350 |
| Groceries | CAD 400–CAD 650 |
| Public Transport | CAD 95–CAD 160 |
| Mobile Phone | CAD 25–CAD 85 |
| Total Basic Living Costs | CAD 1,800–CAD 3,945 |
The job market in Canada is very positive, with 8.1 million job openings projected by 2033 across healthcare, technology, engineering, construction and skilled trades. Economic growth is expected to create 2.6 million new positions, while retirements and other workforce exits will generate another 5.5 million openings.
Software developers, AI specialists, cybersecurity analysts, registered nurses, engineers and construction managers are among the occupations with promising employment prospects. Toronto, Vancouver, Montréal, Calgary, Ottawa and Edmonton remain major employment hubs, offering opportunities across established and emerging industries. Competitive salaries, growing demand for skilled workers and multiple pathways to permanent residency (PR) make Canada an attractive destination for international professionals.
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The average annual salary in Canada is approximately CAD 70,000 before tax. Earnings vary by occupation, industry, province and years of experience.
For an employee earning CAD 70,000 annually, monthly take-home pay may be around CAD 4,400–CAD 4,600, depending on the province, tax rates and payroll deductions.
An annual salary of CAD 70,000–CAD 90,000 can support a reasonable lifestyle for a single person in many Canadian cities. Toronto and Vancouver may require a higher income due to housing costs.
Alberta is among the provinces with high average earnings, particularly in energy, engineering and technical occupations. Ontario and British Columbia also have well-paid employment opportunities across several industries.
Surgeons, cardiologists, anaesthesiologists, psychiatrists, family physicians, chief executive officers, engineering managers, IT directors, petroleum engineers and financial managers are among the highest-paid professionals in Canada.
The federal minimum wage is CAD 18.15 per hour for federally regulated workplaces. Provincial and territorial minimum wages differ and may be higher.
Toronto, Vancouver, Montréal, Calgary, Ottawa and Edmonton are major employment centres. They have job opportunities in technology, healthcare, finance, engineering, construction and skilled trades.
Average salaries depend on the occupation, experience and location. Comparing gross annual earnings, income tax, take-home pay and living costs provides a clearer picture of earning potential in both countries.
Software engineers in Canada can earn approximately CAD 80,000–CAD 130,000 annually, with senior engineers and specialised technology professionals potentially earning more.
Yes. Australian citizens aged 18–35 can apply through Canada’s International Experience Canada (IEC) programme under the Working Holiday category, subject to eligibility and available places. The programme allows eligible participants to work in Canada temporarily.
Posted on November 06 2026
Australia vs. Europe for STEM Professionals: Which Country Should You Choose?
Australia and Europe offer rewarding STEM careers in software engineering, AI, data science, renewable energy and biotechnology. Australia has a national skilled migration system, with employer-sponsored work through the Skills in Demand visa (subclass 482) and points-tested PR pathways through the Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) and Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190). Europe offers a wider choice of job markets, with work visa options in Germany, Ireland, the Netherlands and Sweden, including the EU Blue Card. Compare salaries, job demand, visa options and PR pathways to choose the destination that best fits your career and long-term settlement goals.
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| Factor | Australia | Europe |
|---|---|---|
| Average Annual STEM Salary | AUD 90,000-135,000 | €50,000-80,000 |
| Estimated STEM Job Openings Over the Next Decade | 550,000+ | 2,000,000+ |
| Shortage Occupations | The Core Skills Occupation List covers engineers, software developers and other ICT specialists | Many European countries maintain shortage or critical-skills lists for IT, engineering and science roles, often with lower salary thresholds |
| In-Demand STEM Roles | Civil, mechanical and electrical engineers, software developers, data analysts, cybersecurity specialists and research scientists | Software developers, AI and machine learning engineers, automation and mechanical engineers, renewable energy engineers and biotechnology researchers |
| Major STEM Hubs | Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth and Adelaide | Munich, Berlin, Amsterdam, Eindhoven, Dublin and Stockholm |
| Work Language | English | English is widely used in tech roles, though knowing the local language often helps |
| Work Visa Options | Skills in Demand visa (subclass 482), Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional visa (subclass 494) and points-tested visas (subclasses 189, 190 and 491) | Each country sets its own rules, including the EU Blue Card in countries such as Germany and the Netherlands, the Germany Opportunity Card (job search), the Ireland Critical Skills Employment Permit and the Netherlands Highly Skilled Migrant visa |
| Qualification Recognition | A skills assessment is required for most skilled visas, through Engineers Australia for engineers and the Australian Computer Society for IT professionals | Most routes require a recognised degree, verified under each country’s rules |
| Permanent Residency Pathways | Employer Nomination Scheme visa (subclass 186) after two years with your sponsor, or the points-tested 189 and 190 visas | Timelines vary by country, from about 21 months in Germany with B1 German to around five years in the Netherlands |
| Estimated Monthly Living Costs | AUD 2,800-5,800 | €1,800-3,500 |
| Family Migration Options | Your spouse or partner and dependent children can be included in a subclass 482 visa application | Spouses or partners and dependent children can generally join you, with rules set by each country |
Australia is a strong choice for STEM professionals seeking English-speaking workplaces, engineering and IT jobs, and skilled migration pathways to permanent residency. Europe offers a wider choice of countries, with technology hubs, advanced manufacturing, renewable energy and research opportunities across Germany, the Netherlands, Ireland and Sweden. The right destination depends on your specialisation, work experience, salary expectations and long-term settlement plans.
Australia is a strong choice if you want:
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Europe is a strong choice if you want:
Australia offers STEM professionals competitive salaries in engineering, IT and technology, with 12% employer superannuation paid on top of salary and four weeks of annual leave. Germany, Ireland, the Netherlands and Sweden have strong STEM job markets across software, advanced manufacturing, research and renewable energy, with lower living costs in many cities. Rent, income tax, pension contributions and everyday expenses affect savings in both destinations. Actual savings vary by occupation, experience and city.
| Factor | Australia | Europe |
|---|---|---|
| Average Annual STEM Salary (Before Tax) | AUD 90,000-135,000 | €50,000-80,000 |
| Monthly Gross Salary | AUD 7,500-11,250 | €4,200-6,700 |
| Estimated Monthly Take-Home Pay | AUD 5,900-8,400 | €2,700-4,000 |
| Monthly Rent for a 1-Bedroom City-Centre Apartment | AUD 1,600-4,100 | €700-2,400 |
| Monthly Grocery Costs | AUD 350-700 | €250-400 |
| Monthly Public Transport Costs | AUD 120-220 | €63-100 |
| Monthly Utilities, Internet and Mobile | AUD 300-400 | €250-400 |
| Estimated Total Monthly Living Costs | AUD 2,400-5,400 | €1,300-3,500 |
| Potential Monthly Savings | AUD 3,500-6,000 | €1,400-2,700 |
| Potential Annual Savings | AUD 42,000-72,000 | €16,800-32,400 |
| Lower-Cost Cities | Adelaide, Brisbane and Perth | Leipzig and Dresden |
| Higher-Cost Cities | Sydney and Melbourne | Munich, Amsterdam, Stockholm and Dublin |
| Retirement Benefits | 12% employer superannuation contribution | State pension contributions vary, for example 9.3% each in Germany |
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Australia is a great choice if you want English-speaking workplaces and clear routes to PR through one national visa system. Europe is a great choice if you want a wider range of countries and job markets. Your occupation and long-term plans decide which one fits you best.
Software development is among the best paid STEM fields in Australia, with the Australian Computer Society reporting an average of AUD 135,000 a year. Cybersecurity, data and engineering roles also offer strong pay depending on experience, and employers add 12% super on top of your salary.
Engineers, software developers, data analysts, cybersecurity specialists and research scientists are all in demand. The Core Skills Occupation List covers engineers, software developers and other ICT specialists, so employers can sponsor them through the Skills in Demand visa (subclass 482). Confirm your occupation is listed to unlock sponsorship.
Germany is a top choice for most STEM professionals. The EU Blue Card offers a lower salary threshold for shortage occupations, and the Opportunity Card lets you search for work without an offer. Ireland and the Netherlands are excellent for English-language workplaces, through their own work visas.
The right visa depends on your situation. The Skills in Demand visa (subclass 482) works well with an employer sponsor, the Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) offers PR without a sponsor, and the 190 and 491 visas add points through state or regional nomination.
You have two strong routes. The points-based route uses the 189, 190 and 491 visas after a skills assessment. The employer route starts with the Skills in Demand visa (subclass 482) and leads to the Employer Nomination Scheme visa (subclass 186) after two years with your sponsor.
Yes, Germany makes it possible. The Opportunity Card lets you enter Germany to look for work without a job offer if you qualify. Other routes, such as the EU Blue Card and the Netherlands’ Highly Skilled Migrant visa, are employer-led, so a job offer opens the door.
The EU Blue Card suits you if you have a German job offer, with PR in 21 months with B1 German or 27 months without it. Australia’s Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) suits you if you want PR without a sponsor and have enough points.
In many European cities, yes. Estimated monthly costs run about €1,800 to €3,500 in Europe and AUD 2,800 to 5,800 in Australia, with rent making the biggest difference. Many German cities offer more affordable housing than Dublin or Amsterdam, so compare your chosen city.
Yes, for most skilled visas. Engineers Australia assesses engineers and the Australian Computer Society assesses IT professionals, while other STEM occupations use their own assessing body. It confirms your qualifications and experience match your nominated occupation, and completing it early keeps your application moving smoothly.
Posted on November 03 2026
What is the Average Salary in Italy?
The average salary in Italy is €34,733 gross per year, or €2,894 gross per month, for full-time employees. Many employers pay over 13 instalments, making the typical gross monthly payment €2,672, and take-home pay averages around 72% of gross. Healthcare, IT, engineering, finance and management offer the highest earning potential, with pay varying by occupation and experience.
Italy has strong demand for workers in healthcare, tourism, agriculture, logistics and manufacturing, and the government has authorised 497,550 work entries for non-EU nationals between 2026 and 2028. Milan offers the highest average salaries, while Rome, Turin and Bologna are also major employment centres. With in-demand sectors, established business hubs and a relatively affordable cost of living compared with much of Western Europe, Italy offers skilled workers attractive career opportunities.
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Italy offers high-paying career opportunities in medicine, law, finance and corporate management. Doctors, judges, lawyers, bank managers, CEOs, CFOs, orthodontists, university professors, pilots and marketing directors earn average gross monthly salaries ranging from €4,890 to €13,600. Earnings depend on experience, qualifications and location, with Milan and Rome offering strong opportunities in finance and corporate management. Many Italian employment contracts also include a 13th-month salary, usually paid in December, increasing annual earnings.
| Job | Average Gross Monthly Salary | Average Gross Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Surgeons | €17,015 | €204,180 |
| Doctors | €14,457 | €173,484 |
| Judges | €12,118 | €145,416 |
| Lawyers | €9,812 | €117,744 |
| Bank Managers | €9,237 | €110,844 |
| Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) | €8,653 | €103,836 |
| Chief Financial Officers (CFOs) | €8,079 | €96,948 |
| Orthodontists | €7,792 | €93,504 |
| Financial Managers | €7,390 | €88,680 |
| University Professors | €6,920 | €83,040 |
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Italy has demand for workers in healthcare, IT, engineering, renewable energy, logistics and tourism. Gross annual salaries across these sectors range from approximately €26,000 to €95,000, with doctors, finance professionals and experienced engineers among the higher earners. Nurses, software developers, solar installation technicians, skilled tradespeople and hospitality workers also have job opportunities, particularly in Northern Italy and major tourist destinations.
| Occupation | Average Annual Salary | Chances of Visa Sponsorship |
|---|---|---|
| Healthcare | €95,000 | High |
| Nursing | €31,000 | High |
| IT and Software | €45,000 | Very High |
| Engineering and Manufacturing | €48,000 | High |
| Skilled Trades and Construction | €26,000 | Moderate to High |
| Energy and Renewables | €32,000 | Moderate to High |
| Hospitality and Tourism | €30,000 | Moderate to High |
| Logistics and Supply Chain | €47,700 | Moderate to High |
| Accounting and Finance | €50,000 | Moderate |
| Pharma and Biotech | €41,900 | Moderate |
Milan, Rome, Turin, Bologna and Naples are major employment centres in Italy, with opportunities across finance, technology, public services, engineering, manufacturing and tourism.
The average annual salary in Italy is approximately €34,733, compared with about AUD 108,352 in Australia, based on ABS average weekly ordinary time earnings for full-time adults. Both countries offer jobs in technology, healthcare, engineering and finance, but average salaries are higher in Australia. Italy generally has lower living costs, and many employment contracts include a 13th-month salary payment. Actual savings depend on take-home pay, rent and other living expenses.
| Factor | Italy | Australia |
|---|---|---|
| Gross monthly salary | €2,894 | AUD 9,029 |
| Gross annual salary | €34,733 | AUD 108,352 |
| Estimated monthly income tax and contributions | €810 | AUD 2,099 |
| Estimated monthly take-home pay | €2,084 | AUD 6,930 |
| Estimated monthly living costs | €1,600 | AUD 3,900 |
| Estimated monthly savings | €484 | AUD 3,030 |
| Estimated annual savings | €5,808 | AUD 36,360 |
A single person typically needs around €1,400–€2,800 per month to cover rent and everyday expenses in Italy. Costs are highest in Milan, with Rome and Florence also relatively expensive. Naples and other southern cities are generally more affordable, though actual expenses depend on housing, location and lifestyle.
| Factor | Estimated Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Rent | €700–€1,500 |
| Groceries and food | €250–€400 |
| Utilities | €100–€180 |
| Transportation | €35–€60 |
| Internet and mobile | €25–€45 |
| Personal and leisure expenses | €290–€615 |
| Total monthly cost | €1,400–€2,800 |
Italy has a positive job outlook for skilled workers, with an estimated 3.3 million to 3.7 million employment opportunities expected by 2029. Demand and the need to replace retiring workers are creating openings across healthcare, IT, engineering, energy, construction, tourism and manufacturing. Software developers, AI specialists, cybersecurity analysts, engineers, registered nurses and skilled technicians are among the roles with strong prospects. Milan, Rome, Turin, Bologna and Naples are major employment hubs, offering opportunities across these sectors for international workers seeking career growth.
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Italy’s average salary sits below the EU average. Eurostat data puts the average full-time salary at €33,523, against an EU average of €39,808. Lower living costs in many cities, a 13th-month payment and strong regional pay differences mean the gap can feel smaller in practice, especially outside Milan and Rome.
The average gross monthly salary in Italy is about €2,894 when the annual figure is divided by 12. Many Italian contracts pay the annual salary over 13 instalments, so the typical gross monthly payment is about €2,672. The 13th-month payment is usually made in December, so the annual total stays the same.
Take-home pay averages about 72% of gross. Italy taxes income at 23% up to €28,000, 33% up to €50,000 and 43% above that, plus employee social security of about 9% to 10%. On the average salary, that is roughly €2,084 a month. Exact take-home pay depends on your region and family circumstances.
A salary above €35,000 a year, including benefits, is considered good in Italy, and the cost of living is lower than the EU average. In expensive cities such as Milan, professionals usually need more to live comfortably. Location, household size and rent all affect how far a salary stretches, so compare pay against living costs city by city.
Italy has no national statutory minimum wage. Pay must be at least the collective agreement rate for your role. These agreements are set sector by sector, so the minimum depends on the industry and job. This is why entry-level pay can differ widely between retail, hospitality, manufacturing and other sectors.
The highest-paying jobs in Italy are doctors, judges, lawyers, bank managers, chief executive officers and chief financial officers. Estimated average monthly salaries run from about €7,600 for chief financial officers to €13,600 for doctors. Orthodontists, university professors, pilots and marketing directors also appear on the top ten list, with pay varying by experience and employer.
Milan has the highest average salary in Italy. It leads in finance, technology, fashion and logistics. Rome, Turin and Bologna also offer above-average pay in public administration, engineering and manufacturing. Southern regions such as Sicily, Sardinia, Calabria and Campania report the lowest wages, although living costs there are also lower.
Australia’s average full-time salary is about AUD 108,352, almost double Italy’s €34,733 at current exchange rates. Take-home pay is also higher in Australia, at about AUD 6,930 a month against €2,084 in Italy. Italy offers lower living costs and a 13th-month payment, so the better choice depends on your priorities.
Yes. A single person’s estimated monthly living costs are about €1,600 in Italy, against about AUD 3,890 in Australia, including rent. Costs vary by city, with Milan and Rome far more expensive than the south. Australian earners still save more in absolute terms, estimated at AUD 3,030 a month.
Posted on November 03 2026
What Are the Different Types of Australia Visas to Immigrate?
Australia offers different types of visas for people planning to immigrate for work, study, family reunification or permanent residency. Skilled workers can apply for the Skilled Independent visa (Subclass 189), Skilled Nominated visa (Subclass 190) or Skilled Work Regional visa (Subclass 491), while employer-sponsored options include the Skills in Demand visa (Subclass 482), Employer Nomination Scheme visa (Subclass 186) and Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional visa (Subclass 494).
Australia also offers partner and family visas, the Student visa (Subclass 500) for international students and the National Innovation visa (Subclass 858) for exceptional talent. With several visas offering pathways to permanent residency, Australia is an ideal destination for skilled workers, students and families seeking career opportunities, quality education and long-term settlement.
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Australia offers different types of visas for people planning to immigrate for work, study, family reunification or permanent residency. The main categories are skilled migration, employer-sponsored, partner and family, student and talent-based visas. Some visas grant permanent residency directly, while others are temporary and can lead to PR.
| Visa Type | Who Is It For? | Main Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Skilled Independent visa (Subclass 189) | Skilled workers who meet the points test, without sponsorship or nomination | To live and work permanently anywhere in Australia |
| Skilled Nominated visa (Subclass 190) | Skilled workers nominated by an Australian state or territory | To live and work permanently in Australia |
| Skilled Work Regional visa (Subclass 491) | Skilled workers nominated by a state or territory or sponsored by an eligible relative | To live and work in regional Australia, with a pathway to PR |
| Skills in Demand visa (Subclass 482) | Skilled workers sponsored by an approved Australian employer | To work for a sponsoring employer for up to four years, with a possible pathway to PR |
| Employer Nomination Scheme visa (Subclass 186) | Skilled workers nominated by an Australian employer | To live and work permanently in Australia |
| Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional visa (Subclass 494) | Skilled workers sponsored by an approved employer in regional Australia | To work in regional Australia for up to five years, with a pathway to PR |
| National Innovation visa (Subclass 858) | People with an internationally recognised record of exceptional achievement who receive an invitation | To live permanently in Australia and contribute to important sectors |
| Partner visa (Subclasses 309/100 or 820/801) | Partners of Australian citizens, permanent residents or eligible New Zealand citizens | To join a partner in Australia, first temporarily and then permanently |
| Student visa (Subclass 500) | International students enrolled in a course at an approved institution | To study full time in Australia |
| Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) | International graduates who have completed qualifying studies in Australia | To live and work temporarily in Australia after studying |
| Working Holiday visa (Subclass 417) | Young travellers from countries covered by Australia’s Working Holiday program | To holiday and work in Australia, with options to extend your stay |
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To qualify for an Australian visa, applicants must meet the requirements of their chosen visa category. Skilled migration visas generally require a positive skills assessment, English proficiency and at least 65 points, while employer-sponsored visas require an Australian employer nomination. Student and partner visa applicants must meet study or relationship requirements. All applicants must also satisfy health and character requirements.
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To apply for an Australian visa, choose the right visa subclass, check the requirements, prepare your documents and submit your application online through ImmiAccount.
Step 1: Choose the right visa
Select a visa based on your purpose, such as skilled migration, employer sponsorship, study, family or a Working Holiday.
Step 2: Check the eligibility requirements
Review the visa criteria, including age, qualifications, work experience, English language skills and sponsorship requirements.
Step 3: Complete the required assessments
Get a skills assessment, take an English test and submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect if required.
Step 4: Create an ImmiAccount
Register on the Department of Home Affairs website to start your online visa application.
Step 5: Submit your application and documents
Complete the application form and upload your passport, educational certificates, employment records and other required documents.
Step 6: Pay the visa fee and complete checks
Pay the application charge and complete medical examinations, police checks or biometrics if required.
Step 7: Track your application
Check ImmiAccount for application updates, requests for additional documents and your final visa decision.
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Australian visa fees vary by subclass. The Subclass 189 visa costs around AUD 6,135, while the Partner visa costs approximately AUD 11,710 for the main applicant. Additional charges apply for family members, skills assessments, English tests and medical examinations.
| Australian visa type | Application fee (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Skilled Independent visa (Subclass 189) | AUD 6,135 |
| Skilled Nominated visa (Subclass 190) | AUD 6,140 |
| Skilled Work Regional visa (Subclass 491) | AUD 6,140 |
| Skills in Demand visa (Subclass 482) | AUD 4,015 |
| Working Holiday visa (Subclass 417) | AUD 840 |
| Student visa (Subclass 500) | AUD 2,500 |
| Partner visa (Subclasses 309/100 or 820/801) | AUD 11,710 |
Australian visa processing times depend on the visa subclass and application requirements. The Subclass 189 visa generally takes 2 to 8 months, while Subclasses 190 and 491 may take longer due to state nomination and application assessment. Processing times also vary based on application completeness and individual circumstances.
| Australian Visa Type | Processing Time |
|---|---|
| Skilled Independent visa (Subclass 189) | 2 to 8 months |
| Skilled Nominated visa (Subclass 190) | 4 to 16 months |
| Skilled Work Regional visa (Subclass 491) | 5 to 18 months |
| Skills in Demand visa (Subclass 482) | 37 days to 9 months, depending on stream |
| Working Holiday visa (Subclass 417) | Up to about 2 months |
| Student visa (Subclass 500) | 16 days to 7 months, depending on course sector |
| Partner visa (Subclass 309 or 820, first stage) | About 21 to 32 months |
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Australia offers skilled migration visas (Subclasses 189, 190 and 491), employer-sponsored visas (Subclasses 482, 186 and 494), partner and family visas, the Student visa (Subclass 500) and the invitation-only National Innovation visa (Subclass 858). Some visas grant permanent residency directly, while others are temporary and can lead to PR.
The Skilled Independent (Subclass 189) and Skilled Nominated (Subclass 190) visas grant full permanent residency from the moment of grant. The Employer Nomination Scheme visa (Subclass 186) and the National Innovation visa (Subclass 858) are also permanent visas.
The 189 needs no state or employer nomination. The 190 requires state or territory nomination, which adds 5 points. The 491 is a regional visa that adds 15 points through nomination or eligible family sponsorship. The 189 and 190 are permanent, while the 491 is a provisional visa with a pathway to PR.
You need at least 65 points for the 189, 190 and 491. That is only the minimum, and most invitations go to applicants with 80 to 95+ points, depending on occupation demand.
You must be under 45 at the time of invitation for the 189, 190 and 491.
No, not for the points-tested visas. The 189, 190 and 491 are based on your points score, skills assessment and English level, plus state or regional nomination for the 190 and 491. The employer-sponsored visas (482, 186 and 494) do need an approved Australian employer to nominate you.
Skills in Demand (482) holders can move to PR through the Temporary Residence Transition stream of the Employer Nomination Scheme (186). 491 and 494 holders can apply for PR after living and working in regional Australia for the required period and meeting the other requirements.
The Skills in Demand (SID) visa replaced the TSS visa on 7 December 2024. It kept the 482 subclass number.
The Business Innovation and Investment Program (Subclass 188) closed to new applications on 31 July 2024. Business and investor migration is now structured around the National Innovation visa, employer sponsorship and skilled migration. The National Innovation visa (858) is invitation-only and based on exceptional achievement, not on an investment amount.
No, the Student visa (Subclass 500) is temporary and doesn’t lead to PR directly. After your studies you can apply for the Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) to work in Australia. You can then apply for a skilled or employer-sponsored visa if you meet the requirements.
Posted on November 02 2026
How Can I Get Permanent Residency in Australia?
You can get permanent residency (PR) in Australia through skilled migration, employer sponsorship or partner and family visa pathways. The main visa options include the Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189), the Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190) and the Employer Nomination Scheme visa (subclass 186). Eligibility depends on the visa pathway and may involve a skills assessment, English-language proficiency, a minimum points score, state nomination or employer sponsorship. Once your permanent visa is granted, you can live, work and study in Australia indefinitely, access Medicare and pursue Australian citizenship.
*Want to apply for Australia PR? Let Y-Axis guide you through the application process.
Australia offers several pathways to permanent residency (PR), including skilled migration, employer sponsorship, regional migration, partner and family visas, and the National Innovation visa (subclass 858). Each pathway has specific requirements relating to your occupation, qualifications, work experience, age, English-language proficiency and employer or family sponsorship.
The requirements for Australia PR depend on the visa you apply for. Points-tested skilled visas (subclasses 189, 190 and 491) have the most criteria: an eligible occupation, a positive skills assessment, English proficiency, an age under 45 at invitation and at least 65 points. Employer-sponsored and partner visas are assessed mainly on the sponsor’s nomination or your relationship. Every applicant must also pass health and character checks.
| Pathway | Key requirements |
|---|---|
| Skilled Independent (189) | Eligible occupation, positive skills assessment, English proficiency, under 45 when invited, at least 65 points, SkillSelect invitation |
| Skilled Nominated (190) and Skilled Work Regional (491) | All 189 requirements, plus nomination by an Australian state or territory |
| Employer Nomination Scheme (186) | Nomination by an Australian employer for a permanent position, plus the skills and English requirements for your stream |
| Partner and family visas | A genuine relationship with an Australian citizen, permanent resident or eligible New Zealand citizen who sponsors you |
| All visas | Health examinations and police certificates |
*Need help with Australia PR requirements? Book a free consultation with Y-Axis today.
Every applicant needs identity documents, police certificates and a medical examination. Skilled, employer-sponsored and partner applicants then add the evidence for their own pathway.
All applicants
Skilled visas (189, 190 and 491)
Employer-sponsored visa (186)
Partner visas
To apply for Australian PR through skilled migration, check your occupation, complete a skills assessment, meet the English-language requirements and submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect. After receiving an invitation, submit your visa application with the required documents. Employer-sponsored and partner visas follow separate application processes.
Step 1: Check your eligibility
Match your occupation, age, qualifications and work experience to a skilled visa and confirm your occupation is eligible.
Step 2: Get a skills assessment and take an English test
Apply to the assessing authority for your occupation, and book an accepted English test such as IELTS or PTE Academic.
Step 3: Calculate your points
Add up your points for age, English proficiency, qualifications and work experience. You need at least 65 points to be eligible for an invitation.
Step 4: Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)
Create a SkillSelect profile with your skills assessment, English results, qualifications and work experience.
Step 5: Receive an invitation
Home Affairs sends invitations through SkillSelect. For subclasses 190 and 491, you also need nomination from an Australian state or territory.
Step 6: Lodge your visa application
Apply through ImmiAccount, upload your documents and pay the visa application charge within 60 days of receiving your invitation.
Step 7: Complete health and character checks
Attend your medical examination and submit your police certificates. The Department of Home Affairs then assesses your application and issues its decision.
*Want to apply for Australian PR? Book a free consultation with Y-Axis today.
The Home Affairs application charge for the main applicant is AUD 6,135 for the Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) and AUD 6,140 for the Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190). Your total cost will be higher once you add the skills assessment, English test, medical examination and police certificates.
| Visa subclass | Visa fee |
|---|---|
| Skilled Independent (subclass 189) | AUD 6,135 |
| Skilled Nominated (subclass 190) | AUD 6,140 |
| Skilled Work Regional (subclass 491) | AUD 6,140 |
| Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186) | AUD 6,140 |
| Partner visa (subclasses 820/801 or 309/100) | AUD 11,710 |
Processing starts when you lodge your visa application, so it does not include the wait for a SkillSelect invitation. For points-tested skilled visas, half of applications are decided within 2 to 5 months and 90% within 8 to 18 months. Employer-sponsored applications take longer.
| Visa Category | Median processing time | 90% processed within |
|---|---|---|
| Skilled Independent (subclass 189) | 61 days | 8 months |
| Skilled Nominated (subclass 190) | 4 months | 16 months |
| Skilled Work Regional (subclass 491) | 5 months | 18 months |
| Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186) | 13 to 14 months | 21 to 22 months |
*Want to migrate to Australia permanently? Book a free consultation with Y-Axis today.
For points-tested skilled visas (subclasses 189, 190 and 491), yes. You submit an EOI in SkillSelect with your skills assessment, English test results, qualifications and work experience, then wait for an invitation to apply. Employer-sponsored and partner visas don’t use SkillSelect.
You need at least 65 points to be eligible for an invitation for a points-tested skilled visa. Invitations go to the highest-scoring applicants in each round, so the score that actually gets invited is often higher than 65.
Yes. The Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) needs no employer sponsorship or state nomination. The Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190) needs state or territory nomination but no job offer.
For skilled visas, you generally must be under 45 when you are invited to apply. Employer-sponsored visas have their own age rules and some exemptions.
After you lodge, half of points-tested skilled applications are decided within 2 to 5 months and 90% within 8 to 18 months. For the Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189), the median is 61 days. Employer-sponsored applications generally take longer, with a median of 13 to 14 months for subclass 186. The wait for a SkillSelect invitation is extra.
The main applicant’s visa application charge is AUD 6,135 for subclass 189 and AUD 6,140 for subclass 190. You also pay for a skills assessment, English test, medical examination and police certificates.
No single visa is easiest, because it depends on your occupation, points score, work experience and sponsor options. The Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) is the most flexible because it needs no sponsor, but competitive occupations and high invitation scores can make it harder. The Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190) and the regional visa (subclass 491) can suit applicants with lower scores who are willing to meet state or regional requirements.
You need a valid passport and birth certificate, an English test result, a positive skills assessment, work experience evidence, police certificates and a medical examination. Depending on your visa, you may also need a SkillSelect invitation, state or employer nomination, or relationship evidence for a partner visa.
Yes. You can include your partner and dependent children in a skilled visa application. They must meet health and character requirements, and the partner’s skills and English ability can add points to your score.
Posted on October 29 2026