Work and Live in Australia: Step-by-Step Guide to Meeting Visa Requirements

The Permanent Residency Roadmap: Work and Live in Australia – Step-by-Step Guide to Meeting Visa Requirements

Australia has become one of the most desirable destinations for skilled workers seeking career growth, stability, and a high quality of life. With its robust economy, diverse job opportunities, and world-class living standards, the country actively welcomes professionals from across the globe through various work visa programs.

Australia remains one of the most sought-after destinations for global skilled workers, offering high-paying jobs, an exceptional quality of life, and a robust pathway to Permanent Residency (PR). However, the Australian visa system is complex, competitive, and heavily reliant on a points-based selection model. Securing the right visa—such as the Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) or the Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)—demands a precise, step-by-step strategy.

Success is determined not by luck, but by meticulously preparing documentation, maximizing your score on the General Skilled Migration (GSM) Points Test, and accurately navigating the SkillSelect Expression of Interest (EOI) system.

If your dream is to work and live in Australia, this guide provides a clear, step-by-step overview of the process — from meeting visa requirements to securing employment and finally settling into your new life down under.

Why Choose Australia for Work and Migration?

Australia is known for more than just its beaches and kangaroos — it’s one of the top global economies offering attractive benefits for international workers:

• Competitive salaries and stable employment opportunities

• Free or subsidized healthcare through Medicare

• Pathway to permanent residency (PR)

• Safe, multicultural environment

• High demand for foreign professionals in industries like healthcare, IT, construction, and education

These advantages make Australia a top destination for those looking to live and work abroad legally.

Step-by-Step Guide to Working and Living in Australia Legally

Step 1: Identify the Right Visa Type

Australia offers a variety of work visas based on your skills, experience, and employment offer. Some of the most popular ones include:

1. Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa – Subclass 482

   • For skilled workers nominated by an approved Australian employer.

   • Allows you to stay and work for up to 4 years.

2. Skilled Independent Visa – Subclass 189

   • For skilled workers who are not sponsored by an employer or family.

   • Based on a points system (age, skills, English proficiency).

3. Skilled Nominated Visa – Subclass 190

   • Requires nomination by an Australian state or territory.

   • Provides a pathway to permanent residency.

4. Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Visa – Subclass 186

   • For employees sponsored by an approved Australian employer for permanent residency.

Step 2: Check the Skilled Occupation List (SOL)

Before applying, ensure your occupation appears on Australia’s Skilled Occupation List (SOL) — a list of professions eligible for skilled migration.

In-demand occupations include:

• Registered Nurses

• Software Engineers

• Electricians

• Civil Engineers

• Accountants

• Chefs and Hospitality Managers

Tip: You can check the updated list at immi.homeaffairs.gov.au.

Step 3: Assess Your Skills and Qualifications

To qualify for skilled visas, your educational and professional background must be assessed by an authorized assessing body in Australia.
For example:

• Engineers Australia – for engineering roles

• Australian Nursing & Midwifery Accreditation Council (ANMAC) – for nurses

• ACS (Australian Computer Society) – for IT professionals

This assessment ensures your qualifications meet Australian standards.

Step 4: Prove Your English Language Proficiency

Applicants must demonstrate a minimum English proficiency level using approved language tests such as:

• IELTS (International English Language Testing System)

• TOEFL iBT

• PTE Academic

Most skilled visas require a minimum IELTS band score of 6.0 or higher, depending on the occupation and visa type.

Step 5: Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)

Once your skills are assessed, create an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect, Australia’s online migration portal.

Your EOI will include:

• Work experience

• Education

• Language proficiency

• Age

• Skills assessment details

You’ll receive a points score out of 100. Higher scores increase your chances of receiving an invitation to apply (ITA) for your visa.

Step 6: Secure a Job Offer (Optional for Some Visas)

Some visa types, such as the Employer-Sponsored Visa (Subclass 482), require a job offer from an approved Australian employer.

You can find legitimate job listings on:

• seek.com.au

• jobsearch.gov.au

• LinkedIn Jobs Australia

• Indeed Australia

Use keywords like “visa sponsorship jobs Australia” or “foreign worker opportunities.”

Step 7: Apply for Your Work Visa

Once invited, you’ll have 60 days to submit your visa application through the Department of Home Affairs website.
You’ll need to provide:

• Proof of identity (passport)

• Skills assessment result

• IELTS/TOEFL certificate

• Employment offer (if applicable)

• Health and character documents

Processing times vary depending on the visa type — typically between 3 to 9 months.

Step 8: Prepare for Life in Australia

Once your visa is approved, you can move and begin working legally in Australia.

✅ Steps to settle successfully:

• Apply for a Tax File Number (TFN)

• Open an Australian bank account

• Secure health insurance coverage

• Find affordable housing in cities like Melbourne, Perth, or Brisbane

• Join community networks to connect with other migrants

High-Demand Industries Hiring Foreign Workers in Australia

According to Australia’s labour market forecasts, these industries offer strong job prospects for international applicants:

Benefits of Working in Australia

• High wages and strong worker protections

• Flexible work-life balance

• Opportunity for permanent residency after a few years

• Access to top-quality healthcare and education

• Multicultural communities that welcome skilled immigrants

⚠️ Important Legal Reminders

To remain compliant with Australian immigration laws:

• Always work under a valid visa.

• Never accept employment without authorization.

• Report visa changes promptly to the Department of Home Affairs.

• Avoid paying individuals or agencies who promise “guaranteed” jobs — this is illegal.

✈️ Final Thoughts

Australia continues to be one of the world’s most sought-after destinations for foreign talent. Whether you’re a skilled tradesperson, healthcare professional, or IT specialist, the country’s structured visa pathways make it possible to build a successful career and permanent home abroad.

By following these eight practical steps, you can confidently navigate the visa process and make your dream of living and working in Australia a reality.