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Each stage has tick-lists and numbered steps. Green ticks show what to do. Print the page (or save as PDF) to take checklists with you.

Are you likely to qualify?

Most people come through one of these doors. You probably fit one if:

• You have a skilled occupation Australia needs, plus qualifications and work experience (skilled visas).
• An Australian employer wants to sponsor you (employer visas).
• You have a partner, parent or child who is an Australian citizen or permanent resident (family visas).
• You want to study at an Australian institution (student visa).
• You are 18-30/35 from an eligible country and want to work and travel (working holiday).

Cost of living

Australia has high wages but is also expensive, especially housing in Sydney and Melbourne. Rough monthly guide for one person (varies a lot by city):

🧩 Documents specific to your pathway

🧑‍🔧 Skilled (189 / 190 / 491)

• Positive skills assessment from the right authority
• Invitation to apply + your EOI; qualifications & experience evidence
• State nomination (190/491) or family sponsorship (491)

💼 Employer-sponsored (482 / 186)

• Employer nomination and signed employment contract
• Skills, registration or licensing for the role

🧩 Family, study & working holiday

❤️ Partner / family

• Relationship evidence - shared finances, living together, photos, statements
• Your sponsor's documents and identity

🎓 Student (500)

• Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE), OSHC, and evidence of funds / genuine student

🎒 Working holiday (417/462)

• Eligible passport, proof of funds, and (462) any required government support letter

🎯 The points test

Skilled visas (189, 190, 491) use points. You usually need at least 65 to be invited, but real cut-offs are often higher. Points come from:

• Age - most points at 25-32 (up to 30).
• English - "Superior" 20, "Proficient" 10.
• Skilled work experience - Australian and overseas (up to 20).
• Education - doctorate, degree, diploma.
• Extras - Australian study, a skilled partner, community language (NAATI), a professional year, state nomination or regional sponsorship.

🩺 Health & character

Nearly every visa requires two clearances:

• Health - a medical exam and sometimes chest X-ray by an approved panel doctor.
• Character - a police certificate from every country you have lived in for 12 months or more (in the last 10 years).

Two tools to know

• ImmiAccount - where you lodge and manage your visa online.
• VEVO - lets you and employers check your visa status and conditions any time.

📄 Documents to carry

• Passport with valid visa (check VEVO)
• Birth & marriage certificates (certified, translated)
• Qualifications, transcripts & skills assessment
• Driving licence (+ certified English translation)
• Medical & vaccination records, prescriptions
• Employment references & rental history
• Children's school reports & immunisation records
• Bank statements / proof of funds

🐾 Pets & biosecurity

Australia has strict biosecurity. Bringing a cat or dog needs an import permit, vaccinations, tests and usually quarantine - plan 6+ months ahead via the Department of Agriculture.

💱 Money & shipping

• Use a money-transfer service (Wise, OFX) for better rates than banks.
• You can open some Australian bank accounts before you arrive and deposit funds ready to go.
• Get quotes for sea vs air freight; sea is cheaper but slow (weeks).
• Bringing AUD 10,000+ in cash (or equivalent)? You must declare it at the border.

🧾 Tax rates (2026-27)

Australia has a progressive system - you only pay the higher rate on the part of your income above each threshold.

• Add the 2% Medicare levy on top for most residents.
• The Low Income Tax Offset reduces tax for lower earners.
• Working holiday makers: 15% on the first $45,000.

🏦 Superannuation ("super")

Your employer must pay 12% of your ordinary earnings into a super fund on top of your wage. It is locked away for retirement.

• You usually choose your fund - compare fees and performance on moneysmart.gov.au.
• From 1 July 2026, super is paid on each payday ("Payday Super").
• Check your super is being paid via myGov → ATO.
• Temporary residents who leave permanently can often claim it back (a DASP).

🛒 GST

A 10% Goods and Services Tax is built into most prices already. The price on the shelf is what you pay.

📅 Tax returns

Lodge a return after 30 June, usually by 31 October, through myTax (in myGov) or a registered tax agent. Many people get a refund.

🧰 ABN & freelancing

Working for yourself? You need an ABN (Australian Business Number), you set aside your own tax, and you may register for GST if you earn enough.

🏦 How superannuation works

"Super" is money set aside for your retirement. On top of your wage, your employer must pay 12% of your ordinary earnings into a super fund. From 1 July 2026 this is paid on every payday ("Payday Super").

• You get super whether you are full-time, part-time, casual - and even as a temporary resident.
• Inside the fund, contributions are taxed at just 15% - usually far below your normal tax rate.
• You can usually choose your own fund; compare fees and insurance using the YourSuper tool in myGov.
• Consolidate multiple accounts (easy to collect when you change jobs) via myGov → ATO to stop paying duplicate fees.

📈 Contributions & access

• Before-tax (concessional) cap: $32,500 a year (2026-27) - includes your employer's 12% plus any salary sacrifice.
• After-tax (non-concessional) cap: $130,000 a year (2026-27).
• Government co-contribution: earn under about $64,293 and add after-tax money, and the government may add up to $500.

When can you access it?

• At your preservation age (60 for anyone born after 30 June 1964) once you retire, or
• At age 65 regardless of whether you are still working. It is generally tax-free from 60.

🔑 From search to keys

1. Search on realestate.com.au and domain.com.au. Rent is usually advertised per week.
2. Inspect the property (open homes or private viewings).
3. Apply - agents want ID, proof of income (payslips), references and rental history. New arrivals can offer extra references or rent in advance.
4. Sign the lease (tenancy agreement), usually 6 or 12 months.
5. Pay the bond + first rent and do a condition report before moving in.

💲 Bond & rent

• Bond - a security deposit, usually about 4 weeks' rent. It is lodged with a government bond authority, not kept by the agent, and returned when you leave if there's no damage or rent owing.
• Rent in advance - you usually pay 2-4 weeks up front, then ongoing (often fortnightly).
• Condition report - photograph everything on day one. This protects your bond.

⚖️ Your tenancy rights

Rules differ by state, but generally you are entitled to:

• Repairs and a safe, working home (urgent repairs handled fast)
• Proper notice before inspections and quiet enjoyment
• Correct process and notice for rent increases
• Your bond back if you leave the place clean and undamaged

🔌 Utilities & internet

• Electricity & gas - you choose a retailer. Compare plans on the government site Energy Made Easy (or Victorian Energy Compare in VIC).
• Water - usually arranged by the landlord; you may pay usage.
• Internet - most homes use the NBN. Pick a provider and plan speed; allow a few days to connect.
• Mobile - Telstra, Optus and Vodafone plus cheaper resellers. Prepaid or monthly plans.

🛡️ FIRB & your status

• Australian citizens and permanent residents (ordinarily resident) - no FIRB needed, buy like anyone else.
• New Zealand citizens - generally exempt from FIRB.
• Temporary residents & other foreign persons - need FIRB approval before signing, and are currently limited to new/off-the-plan/land (not established homes).
• Buying jointly with an Australian citizen/PR spouse as joint tenants can be exempt.

💲 What it really costs

• Deposit - ideally 20%. Less than 20% usually means paying Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI).
• Stamp duty (transfer duty) - a big state tax on the purchase. Foreign buyers pay an extra surcharge in most states.
• Conveyancer / solicitor, building & pest inspection, loan and FIRB fees.
• First Home Owner Grant and other schemes may help eligible citizens/PR - check your state.

🪪 Converting your overseas licence

You can usually drive on a valid overseas licence at first, but once you become a permanent resident you must convert to a local licence - typically within 3 to 6 months (the exact deadline varies by state).

• From a recognised country? You often swap directly - no tests.
• From other countries? You now sit a knowledge test and a practical driving test.
• Licence not in English? Bring a NAATI-certified translation (permanent residents can use the free government translating service).

🛑 Key driving laws

• Drive on the left; overtake on the right.
• Seatbelts compulsory for everyone; children in approved car seats.
• No phone in your hand while driving - heavy fines and demerit points.
• Alcohol limit 0.05 for full licences; 0.00 for learner and provisional drivers.
• Speed cameras and random breath/drug testing are common and strict.
• Obey give-way signs and roundabout rules (give way to the right).

🚙 Buying & running a car

1. Buy from a licensed dealer (more protection) or privately (cheaper).
2. Buying privately? Check the PPSR first (~$2) to confirm there's no money owing and it isn't stolen or written off.
3. Get a roadworthy / safety certificate where your state requires one.
4. Transfer the registration ("rego") into your name.

Insurance - know the difference

• CTP (Compulsory Third Party) - legally required, often part of rego. Covers injury to people only.
• Comprehensive (or third-party property) - strongly recommended. Covers damage to cars and property. CTP does not cover vehicle damage.

🏍️ Motorcycles & mopeds

• You need a separate motorcycle licence class, usually after a learner permit and a training course (names vary, e.g. Q-Ride, pre-learner).
• An approved helmet is compulsory for rider and passenger.
• New riders usually start on LAMS-approved (learner-legal) bikes.
• Lane filtering is allowed in most states under strict conditions (low speed, licensed riders).
• Same rego + CTP rules as cars apply.

💳 Medicare eligibility

• Citizens & permanent residents - full Medicare.
• Eligible New Zealand citizens living here.
• Regional 491 / 494 holders are generally eligible.
• People who've applied for PR onshore may be eligible.

Usually NOT eligible (need private cover)

• Most 482 (Skills in Demand) workers
• Student (500) - must hold OSHC
• Working holiday (417/462) and visitor (600)

👩‍⚕️ Using the system

• The GP is your gateway. You see a general practitioner first; they refer you to specialists.
• Bulk billing = the doctor charges Medicare directly and you pay nothing. Otherwise you pay a "gap".
• PBS subsidises many prescription medicines, so they cost less.
• Enrol in Medicare through Services Australia or myGov; you get a Medicare card (digital card available quickly).

➕ Private health insurance

Even with Medicare, many people add private cover for shorter waits, choice of doctor, and things Medicare doesn't cover (most dental, optical, physio).

• Hospital cover + Extras cover are bought separately or bundled.
• Higher earners buy basic hospital cover to avoid the Medicare Levy Surcharge.
• Join hospital cover after age 31 and a Lifetime Health Cover loading may apply, so joining earlier is cheaper.

💚 Mental health & support

Your GP can create a mental health care plan giving subsidised sessions with a psychologist. Free, confidential helplines:

• Lifeline - 13 11 14 (24/7 crisis support)
• Beyond Blue - 1300 22 4636
• healthdirect - 1800 022 222 for health advice

🛡️ Your minimum rights

Set by the National Employment Standards and industry awards:

• At least the minimum wage (many awards pay more)
• Super paid into your fund (12%)
• A payslip within one day of being paid
• Paid annual leave and sick/carer's leave (not casuals)
• Public holidays and penalty rates in many jobs
• Protection from unfair dismissal

🔎 Finding work

• Main job sites: Seek, Indeed, LinkedIn, Jora.
• Government service: Workforce Australia.
• Write an Australian-style resume (short, achievement-focused, no photo or birthdate).
• Local references and volunteering help you break in.

🏫 Schools

Three types: public (government), Catholic, and independent/private. School is compulsory from about age 6 to 16-17.

• Public schools are often zoned to where you live.
• Enrol through your state education department.
• Temporary residents may pay fees for public school - this varies by state and visa.

🧸 Childcare

Long day care, family day care and outside-school-hours care are available but can be costly.

• The Child Care Subsidy (CCS) helps eligible families - usually citizens/PR and some visa holders.
• Places fill up; join waitlists early.

🎓 University

World-class universities. Cost depends on status:

• Citizens/PR pay lower domestic fees and may access HECS-HELP loans.
• International students pay full fees up front.

🍺 Alcohol, smoking & vaping

• You must be 18+ to buy or drink alcohol; carry photo ID.
• Alcohol is sold in licensed shops ("bottle-o") and venues, not supermarkets in most states.
• Smoking is banned indoors and in many public areas; 18+ to buy.
• Vapes: laws tightened - nicotine vapes are generally available only through pharmacies, not corner shops.
• Illicit drugs are illegal with serious penalties.

🛒 Shopping & money habits

• Prices shown include GST - no surprise tax at the till.
• Tipping is not expected - it's optional and modest.
• Cards and phone tap dominate; some places add a small surcharge.
• Bank details = BSB + account number; PayID/Osko gives instant transfers; BPAY pays bills.
• Strong consumer rights: faulty goods get a refund, repair or replacement (Australian Consumer Law).

🌏 Fitting in

• Culture is casual, multicultural and direct; a "fair go" for everyone matters.
• Being on time is polite. First names are normal.
• BYO = bring your own (drinks, or a plate to share).
• Respect for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and Country is important.

🛤️ Common PR pathways

• Skilled PR - subclass 189, 190, or 186 (employer), or 191 after a regional 491.
• Partner/family - the permanent stage of a partner or family visa.
• Business/talent - e.g. National Innovation visa.

✨ Your new rights

• Live, work and study anywhere, indefinitely
• Medicare access
• Sponsor eligible family members
• Access most government services (after any waiting periods)
• Domestic uni fees and HECS-HELP loans
• A clear path to citizenship

📆 The residence rule (conferral)

Generally, the day before you apply you must have:

• Lived in Australia lawfully for 4 years
• Held permanent residency for the last 12 months
• Been away no more than 12 months total in those 4 years
• Been away no more than 90 days in the final 12 months

You must also be of good character (18+) and intend to keep living in or staying closely connected to Australia.

📖 Test, fee & ceremony

• Citizenship test - 20 questions, 45 minutes, 75% to pass, and you must get all 5 "Australian values" questions right. Study the free booklet "Australian Citizenship: Our Common Bond".
• Applicants aged 60+ are usually exempt from the test.
• Fee (as at mid-2026): about $575 general, $80 concession, and free for a child 15 or under on a parent's application.
• Ceremony - you make the Pledge of Commitment and become a citizen. It usually happens within about 6 months of approval.

🏅 What citizenship gives you

• An Australian passport and consular help abroad
• Vote in elections and referendums
• Stand for public office
• Access citizen-only government and defence jobs
• Register children born overseas as citizens by descent
• Live overseas as long as you like and always return

🌐 Other routes & dual citizenship

• By birth - generally if born in Australia with a citizen/PR parent.
• By descent - born overseas to an Australian citizen parent.
• Dual citizenship: Australia allows you to keep your other citizenship - but check whether your home country does, as some require you to give it up.