Australia (AU)
Australia is the world's sixth-largest country by area and one of the most urbanised nations on Earth, with over 85% of its 27 million people living in coastal cities.
Visa & Immigration
Entry and residence options for Australia.
✈️ Visa-Free Access
Australian citizens do not need a visa to visit New Zealand. Citizens of most developed countries can apply for an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA, subclass 601 — $20 AUD, instant online) or eVisitor (subclass 651 — free, for EU and UK passport holders) for tourism and short-term business visits of up to 3 months. There is no visa-free work rights for any nationality without a specific visa.
All visa applications are submitted online through ImmiAccount at immi.homeaffairs.gov.au. Australia's immigration system is administered by the Department of Home Affairs. Processing times and points test invitation scores change frequently — always check the official website for current information. Use only MARA-registered migration agents (verify at mara.gov.au) for visa advice.
Skilled Independent Visa
Points-tested skilled migration visa for skilled workers not sponsored by an employer, state, or family member. Must be invited through SkillSelect. Occupation must be on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL).
6–18 months from invitation (varies by occupation and individual circumstances)
- ✓Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) in SkillSelect
- ✓Score at least 65 points on the points test (most invitees score 90–100+)
- ✓Positive skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority (Engineers Australia, VETASSESS, AHPRA, etc.)
- ✓Under 45 years of age at time of invitation
- ✓Competent English (IELTS 6.0 all bands or equivalent)
- ✓Meet health and character requirements
Skilled Nominated Visa
Points-tested skilled migration visa for skilled workers nominated by an Australian state or territory government. State nomination adds 5 points to the points test score. Requires commitment to live and work in the nominating state for 2 years.
6–18 months from state nomination and invitation
- ✓EOI in SkillSelect
- ✓Nomination from an Australian state/territory government
- ✓At least 65 points on the points test
- ✓Positive skills assessment
- ✓Under 45 years of age
- ✓Competent English (IELTS 6.0 all bands)
Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (Skills in Demand)
Employer-sponsored temporary work visa. Three streams from late 2024: Specialist Skills (any occupation earning $135,000+), Core Skills (occupation on the Core Skills Occupation List earning $73,150+), Essential Skills (lower-wage shortage occupations). Replaces the former TSS 482 visa.
1–4 months
- ✓Employer sponsorship — employer must be an approved Standard Business Sponsor
- ✓Occupation on the relevant occupation list for the stream
- ✓Relevant skills and experience (typically 2+ years)
- ✓Salary at or above the market rate and stream threshold
- ✓Competent English
- ✓Health and character requirements
Working Holiday Visa
For young people aged 18–35 (18–30 in some countries) wanting to holiday and work in Australia. Available to nationals of 50+ countries including UK, Ireland, Germany, France, Italy, Netherlands, Japan, South Korea, Canada, and many others.
1 day – 4 weeks
- ✓Age 18–35 (18–30 for some countries)
- ✓Genuine holiday intention
- ✓Sufficient funds to support yourself (typically $5,000)
- ✓No dependent children in Australia
- ✓Health and character requirements
No dedicated digital nomad visa
Digital NomadAustralia does not offer a dedicated digital nomad or remote worker visa as of 2026. Remote workers who are eligible can apply for a Working Holiday visa (417/462) or a skilled migration visa if their occupation is on the skilled list.
N/A
Visa & Immigration
Unlock the complete Visa & Immigration guide for Australia — including every detail, document, tip and link you need.
Become a SupporterSupport the guide on Ko-fi · Unlocks every premium section, everywhere