Can I Get Australia PR in 3 Years?

"Can I Get Australia PR in 3 Years?" If you are asking yourself the same question, you are definitely in the right place. Quite simply, the answer is 'Yes', a three-year timeframe is often a fair timeline for achieving Australian Permanent Residency (PR), particularly through the skilled migration stream. However, some highly competitive visas (like the Skilled Independent visa, subclass 189) can be processed faster for applicants with very high points, and a three-year window is specifically embedded into the structure of several popular temporary-to-permanent visa pathways.

To successfully obtain Australia PR in this timeframe, you, as an Indian, must choose the right visa and ensure your application is competitive and ready. 

Visa Routes to Australia PR in or around 3 Years 

The most prominent paths to securing Australian Permanent Residency (PR) within or around a three-year timeframe fall under the General Skilled Migration (GSM) program. These routes offer a direct PR visa with a quick processing time. 

Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)

This is a permanent, points-tested visa that doesn't require state/territory nomination or employer sponsorship. This visa type is termed the fastest direct route. 

• Processing Time

Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)

This visa is a permanent, points-tested visa looking for a nomination from an Australian state or territory. The nomination adds 5 points to your score, which can then help secure an invitation faster.

• Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190) Processing Times

Provisional to Permanent Visas (Three-Year Requirement) 

This visa lets you live, work, and study in certain regional areas of Australia for up to five years. 

To be eligible for this visa, you must: 

•  Apply for the Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) visa (Subclass 191) after you have held the Subclass 491 visa for three years.
•  Meet the minimum taxable income requirements. 

Occupation Lists For Australian PR (Skilled Independent Visa 189, Skilled Nominated Visa 190, and Skilled Work Regional Visa 491)

Also Read: Australia Travel Visa Requirements from India in 2025-26

How Can Indians Get Australian PR in 3 Years?

The total time to PR isn't confined to the processing time only; it also includes the time it takes to get an Invitation to Apply (ITA), which is crucial for points-tested visas.

• Aim for a Higher Points Score: The smartest way to speed up the process is to achieve a higher score than the minimum 65 points in the SkillSelect system. High scores (generally 85+ for popular occupations) are prioritised for an ITA.
• Gather Complete Documentation: Submit a complete and ready application with all supporting documents (skill assessment, English test, medical checks, police clearances) upfront, which significantly prevents delays caused by requests for further information. 
• Current Visa Processing Priorities: The Department of Home Affairs (DHA) adjusts its processing priorities, which can temporarily speed up or slow down specific visa streams.
• Occupation on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL): Occupations in high demand, such as those in Healthcare, IT, and Engineering, often receive invitations faster.

Also Read: How to Get an Australia Visit Visa?

Steps to Apply for Australia PR in 3 Years

Here is the step-by-step guide for Indians to apply for Australia PR in three years:

Phase 1: Preparation (1-6 Months) 

In the first phase of your visa application process, you need to meet the eligibility requirements and maximise your points. This phase is crucial for the speed of your entire application. 

Step 1:  Meet Minimum Eligibility

Make sure you meet the basics, like being under 45 years of age, having an occupation on the relevant Skilled Occupation List, and meeting the minimum 65 points on the points test. 

Step 2: Pass the English Test

Sit for an approved English language test (e.g., IELTS, PTE, TOEFL iBT, OET). Aim for Proficient (7.0 in all bands or equivalent) or Superior (8.0 in all bands or equivalent) to maximise points.

Step 3: Get a Skills Assessment

Apply to the relevant Australian Skills Assessing Authority for your nominated occupation (e.g., ACS for IT, Engineers Australia for Engineering, VETASSESS for many others) 

Step 4: Calculate and Maximise Points

Use the SkillSelect points calculator and identify areas for improvement, like the Professional Year, partner skills, and state nomination. Focus on 85+ points for a competitive Subclass 189/190 application.

Phase 2: Invitation (Months 6-18)

This phase is meant for formally expressing your interest and securing an Invitation to Apply (ITA).

Step 5: Submit Expression of Interest (EOI)

Lodge your EOI on the Department of Home Affairs' SkillSelect system, focusing on all your validated points (from English and Skills Assessment). You will nominate your chosen visa subclass(es) (e.g., 189, 190, and/or 491).

Step 6: Find Your State Nomination (Subclass 190/491) 

(If applying for 190 or 491): Research and meet the specific criteria of your chosen State/Territory (NSW, VIC, QLD, etc.). Submit a Registration of Interest (ROI) or direct application to the state government. 

 Step 7: Receive Invitation to Apply (ITA) 

In case your EOI points score is competitive enough (based on your occupation's demand and the current government priorities), you will receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for the selected visa subclass. 

Phase 3: Visa Application and Grant (Months 18-36)

In the phase 2, your visa application is submitted; finally, in phase 3, you can group your comprehensive visa application

Step 8: Group Your Visa Application 

Within 60 days of the ITA, submit the official visa application via the DHA's ImmiAccount. Upload all necessary supporting documents (identity, character/police checks, health checks, etc.) and pay the application fee. 

Step 9: Visa Grant 

Your visa is granted 

Step 10: Apply for Provisional Residency and PR

You must live and work in the regional area for at least 3 years and meet the minimum taxable income threshold for at least 3 years.

Build Your Australian PR Pathway with GetGIS Support

Planning to settle permanently in Australia? With GetGIS, you can fast‑track your permanent residency within three years through the right skilled visa strategy. Receive end‑to‑end support for points calculation, skill assessment, English test prep, and application submission.

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