Australia PR Processing Time & Tips to Get a Faster Visa

Australia-PR-Processing-time

The Australia PR processing time for skilled workers is around 16 months. However, it significantly depends on the type of PR visa you are applying for. This article lists the approximate processing time for each Australia PR option.

How long does Australia PR take for Skilled Workers?

The average processing time for the skilled visa category is 16 months. The fastest Australia PR option for a skilled worker is the Direct Entry stream of the Employer Nomination Scheme Visa – Subclass 186. The approximate processing time is given in the table below.

Australia PR SubclassProcessing time
Global Talent Visa – Subclass 858 9 – 12 months
Skilled Regional Visa – Subclass 8875 – 16 months
Skilled Nominated Visa – Subclass 19016 – 17 months
Skilled Independent Visa – Subclass 189 18 – 19 months
Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme visa – Subclass 1879 to 18 months
Employer Nomination Scheme Visa – Subclass 186– Direct Entry Pathway – 4 to 9 months
– Agreement Pathway- 73 days – 4 months
– Transition Pathway – 6 to 14 months

Australia PR Processing time for family streams

The average Australia PR processing time for family streams is around 12 months

Australia PR SubclassProcessing time
The Aged Dependent Relative Visa – Subclass 114Varies with each case 
The Aged Parent visa- subclass 80414-31 years (for new applications)
Carer Visa- Subclass 116Varies with each case
Partner Visa- subclass 10010-20 months
Parent Visa- subclass 10314-31 years (for new applications)
Child Visa (Subclass 101)18-26 months
Remaining Relative Visa (Subclass 115)Varies with each case

Australia PR Processing time for Business streams

Australia PR SubclassProcessing time
The Business Innovation and Investment Visa – Subclass 888– Business Innovation – 5 to 28 months
– Investor stream – 7 to 10 months
– Significant Investor – 7 to 39 months
Business Owner visa – Subclass 890The processing times vary with each case
Investor visa – Subclass 891
State or Territory Sponsored Business Owner Visa – Subclass 892
State or Territory Sponsored Investor Visa – Subclass 893

What causes delays in Australia PR Processing Time?

There are several factors that cause delays in Australia PR processing time. 

  • Unsatisfactory applications – an application that either has incomplete documents or causes the department to ask for additional information will always take longer to process.
  • Information verification – Every information provided in your EOI and application must be easily verifiable. Any difficulties will only cause delays in Australia PR processing time
  • High volume of applications – High volumes of applications, especially for popular visa subclasses, can lead to longer processing times due to backlogs. 
  • Health and Character Verifications – Delays in obtaining health examination results or police clearance certificates can impact the overall processing time.
  • Policy Changes – Changes in immigration policies or processing priorities can affect how quickly applications are processed.

The Impact of Priority Processing

The Department of Home Affairs employs a priority processing system, where certain applications are processed faster based on:

  • Critical Skills Needs
    • Occupations listed on the Priority Migration Skilled Occupation List (PMSOL) may receive expedited processing. For instance, applications in relation to a healthcare or teaching occupation have faster Australia PR processing time.
  • Employer Sponsorship
    • Visas sponsored by Australian employers, especially in critical sectors, might be processed more quickly.
  • Regional Migration
    • Applications for regional visas may be prioritized to encourage migration to less populated areas.

Understanding these priorities can help applicants tailor their approach and potentially reduce their Australia PR processing time.

Prioritized Australia PR visa categories are:

  • Employer Nomination Scheme – Subclass 186 
  • Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme – Subclass 187
  • Skilled – Independent – Subclass 189
  • Skilled – Nominated – Subclass 190
  • Global Talent – Subclass 858
  • Business Innovation and Investment – Subclass 888
  • Skilled – Regional – Subclass 887 

Effective Tips to reduce Australia PR processing time

While some factors are beyond an applicant’s control, there are steps you can take to potentially reduce your Australia PR processing time:

  • Create your Expression of Interest (EOI) carefully 

While creating an EOI for Australia PR visa, make sure you get the maximum points possible by accurately reporting all eligible factors such as age, English proficiency, work experience, and educational qualifications. Higher points scores can lead to quicker invitations to apply, thereby reducing overall processing time.

  • Try to apply to less competitive or priority streams 

Some PR visa categories and occupations are prioritized by the Australian Department of Home Affairs. You or your visa agent can research the perfect visa category for you that may not be as competitive and even have faster processing.

  • Try to obtain an Australian state or territory nomination or regional sponsorship

Australian states, territories and regions usually have very specific and immediate skills shortages. They may process Australia visa applications faster.

  • Prepare Thoroughly Before Applying

Before applying, ensure you are eligible for the visa you are applying for. Gather all mandatory documents, including certified copies and translations if required, before starting your application. Strictly comply with the file formats and size limitations to ensure smooth processing without technical hiccups. Submitting an incomplete application will not only increase processing time but will also increase the risk of visa rejection.

  • Ensure Accuracy

Double-check all information for accuracy to prevent delays due to discrepancies or errors. Every information must be verifiable and updated. 

  • Respond Promptly to Requests

If the Department requests additional information or documentation, provide it as quickly as possible. Any delay in response will only increase Australia PR processing time.

  • Complete Health and Character Requirements Early

Schedule your medical examinations and apply for police clearances early in the process. This will save time and help the authorities to process your PR application faster. 

  • Consider Using a Registered Migration Agent

Professional agents can help you navigate complex requirements and ensure your application is correctly prepared. Talent Connected Worldwide is India’s authorized and affordable immigration company that boasts of a very high success rate in Australia PR visa. 

  • Stay Updated with Immigration Policies

Regularly check the Department of Home Affairs website for any changes that might affect your application. Even though the DoHA will notify you by email, keep visiting their official website for any updates or changes that might impact your case. 

Talent Connected Worldwide helps you significantly reduce Australia PR processing time and drastically improve the chances of a successful visa. Kickstart your dream to settle in Australia with us and get your visa in no time!