MARN 0102527 · Registered Migration Agents
AC Education & Migration AC Education & Migration

PR Pathways

Skilled migration

Plan your path to permanent residency before you choose a course

Permanent residency in Australia is usually reached through a points-tested skilled visa, an employer-sponsored visa, or a state or regional nomination. Which pathway fits depends on your occupation, qualifications, English level, work experience, age and personal circumstances.

The rules, occupation lists and invitation rounds are set by the Australian Government and change often. That is why we look at the pathway first: choosing the right course and occupation early can save years.

Occupation pathways

Explore pathways by occupation

See the usual course-to-assessment-to-visa route for each occupation, and the questions to ask before you commit.

Registered Nurse

Assessed by ANMAC

One of the most consistently in-demand occupations on Australia's skilled occupation lists.

View pathway

Software Engineer

Assessed by ACS

Covers software and applications programming roles across most ICT skilled visa streams.

View pathway

Civil Engineer

Assessed by Engineers Australia

A core engineering occupation with strong demand tied to infrastructure investment.

View pathway

Accountant (General)

Assessed by CPA Australia / CA ANZ

A long-standing skilled migration occupation, though competition for invitations can be high.

View pathway

Electrician (General)

Assessed by TRA (Trades Recognition Australia)

A trade occupation with strong regional demand and employer sponsorship opportunities.

View pathway

Early Childhood (Pre-primary School) Teacher

Assessed by AITSL

A consistently in-demand occupation, particularly in regional Australia.

View pathway

The common pathways in brief

  • Skilled Independent (subclass 189): points-tested, no sponsor or nomination required.
  • Skilled Nominated (subclass 190): points-tested with nomination by a state or territory.
  • Skilled Work Regional (subclass 491): provisional visa for skilled people willing to live and work in regional areas.
  • Employer-sponsored visas: an Australian employer sponsors you for a skilled position.

Each has its own eligibility requirements, costs, processing times and conditions. A registered migration agent can assess which, if any, you may be eligible for.

What this website can and cannot tell you

Our points calculator and visa finder give an indicative, general starting point only. They are not a decision about your eligibility and they are not migration advice. Your circumstances, the current rules and the occupation lists can all change the outcome, so always speak to a registered migration agent before you make decisions or lodge anything.

Check your indicative points score

A quick calculator to see where you stand — then talk to an agent about what it means.

Open the points calculator

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between the 189, 190 and 491 visas?
The 189 is not tied to a state or employer. The 190 needs nomination by a state or territory. The 491 is a provisional regional visa, usually with nomination or sponsorship. Requirements and points differ, so an agent should assess which suits you.
Will studying in Australia guarantee permanent residency?
No. Studying can support some pathways, but permanent residency depends on meeting the visa requirements at the time you apply. No one can guarantee an outcome.
How do I know if my occupation is on the list?
Occupation lists change. We check the current lists for your occupation and, where relevant, the skills assessing authority, before you commit to a course.