Immigrating to Australia involves several pathways depending on your skills, family situation, investment ability, or humanitarian need. Here's an overview of the most common immigration routes:

1. Skilled Migration

Australia runs a points-based immigration system for skilled workers. Key visa types include:

Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189) – For highly skilled individuals not sponsored by an employer or relative.
Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190) – Requires nomination by an Australian state or territory.
Skilled Work Regional Visa (subclass 491) – For skilled workers willing to live in regional Australia.

Points are awarded based on age, education, English proficiency, work experience, and other factors. You generally need 65+ points to be eligible.

2. Employer-Sponsored Visas

If you have a job offer from an Australian employer:

Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (subclass 482) – Lets employers sponsor overseas workers.
Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186) – For permanent residence if sponsored by an employer.

3. Family Visas

For people with close family members in Australia:

Partner visas (subclass 820/801 or 309/100) – For spouses or de facto partners of Australian citizens or permanent residents.
Parent visas – Long waiting times unless you apply under contributory categories (which require a large payment).
Child and other relative visas – Available under certain conditions.

4. Business and Investment Visas

For individuals investing in or starting a business:

Business Innovation and Investment Visa (subclass 188/888) – Requires significant capital and a successful business background.

5. Humanitarian and Refugee Visas

For those fleeing persecution or seeking asylum. Australia accepts a set number of refugees annually under its humanitarian program.

Key Requirements Across Most Visas

English proficiency (usually proven by IELTS, PTE, etc.)
Health and character checks
Skills assessment (for skilled visas, done by authorized assessing bodies)
Visa application fees (can be significant, especially for family and investment routes)

Permanent Residency and Citizenship

Many temporary visas lead to permanent residency, which allows you to live and work in Australia indefinitely.
You can apply for citizenship after usually 4 years of legal residence, including 1 year as a permanent resident