Australia, a unique nation as it doubles as a continent, is encircled by the Indian and Pacific oceans, encompassing the Mainland, Tasmania, and various smaller islands.
The Commonwealth of Australia comprises the mainland of the Australian continent and various smaller islands. It is the world's sixth-largest country by area and the only nation governing an entire continent. Australia has a rich history as one of the pioneers in establishing democracy in the modern world. Formed in 1901, it upholds a stable, liberal, and democratic political system, consisting of six states and several territories. The population of approximately 25 million is concentrated in urban areas along the east coast and coastal regions.
As a highly developed and prosperous country, Australia boasts the 14th-largest economy globally and holds the 3rd position in the UN's Human Development Index.
Australia maintains membership in several international organizations, including ANZUS, the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation, the Commonwealth of Nations, the G20, the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development, the Pacific Islands Forum, the United Nations, and the World Trade Organization.
For all foreign nationals, except New Zealand citizens, a visa is a prerequisite for traveling to Australia.
There are two categories of migration for non-Australian citizens: temporary and permanent. Temporary resident visas allow individuals to stay in Australia for specified periods, for purposes such as tourism, visiting family, study, work, and medical treatment. Many temporary visas also offer pathways to becoming eligible for permanent residency.
Australia's immigration system is objective and merit-based with predictable outcomes. Permanent residents must live in the country for at least two years in a five-year period or demonstrate significant ties in Australia to maintain their residence status (also known as the Australia golden visa).
Enquiry Factsheet
Minimum contribution of AUD 2.5 million under the Investor Stream
12 months
Approximately five years to citizenship
Visa applicants must meet specific criteria related to their visa subclass, which could involve requirements at the time of application or at the time of decision. Failure to meet the criteria at the appropriate time can result in visa refusal. Health, character, and public interest criteria are mandatory for all visa subclasses.
Permanent residents must spend at least two years out of a five-year period in Australia or demonstrate strong ties to the country to maintain their residency.
The Australian visa application process is highly structured, governed by laws, regulations, policies, and legislative instruments. Processing times vary significantly depending on the visa type, with priority given to visas offering greater benefits to the country, such as skilled visas, over family visas.
