10 Benefits of Becoming A Permanent Resident in Australia

Becoming a permanent resident (PR) of Australia offers significant advantages for migrants aiming to build a long-term life in the country. While PR is not the same as citizenship, it provides many of the same rights and paves the way toward becoming an Australian citizen.

In this article, we’ll explore the key benefits of holding Australian permanent residency and how it compares to citizenship.

Live, Work, and Study Freely in Australia

As a permanent resident, you have unrestricted rights to live, work, and study anywhere in Australia. Unlike temporary visa holders, PRs can:

• Work in any occupation without needing sponsorship

• Study at any education institution

• Apply for government-subsidised education and training programs, depending on eligibility

Access to Medicare and Public Services

One of the most valuable benefits is access to Australia’s national healthcare system, Medicare. As a PR, you can:

• Receive free or subsidised treatment at public hospitals

• Access discounted prescription medicine under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS)

• Enrol in the Adult Migrant English Program (AMEP) for free language classes

You may also qualify for additional government services and benefits, depending on your residency status and the relevant department’s policies.

Pathway to Australian Citizenship

Permanent residency is a mandatory step toward Australian citizenship. Most citizenship applicants must:

• Hold a permanent visa for at least 12 months

• Have lived lawfully in Australia for the past four years

• Pass a citizenship test (unless exempt)

• Demonstrate good character and ongoing ties to Australia

Citizenship offers further benefits like holding an Australian passport, voting rights, and access to student loans and public sector jobs.

Sponsor Family Members for PR

Once you become a permanent resident, you can sponsor eligible relatives for their own permanent visas. This includes:

• Partners or spouses

• Dependent children

• Parents or other family members (if eligible)

This is an important pathway for families who wish to settle together in Australia.

Apply for Property Loans and Investment

Permanent residents are generally eligible to apply for bank loans to buy property in Australia. PR status also opens doors to:

• Lower restrictions on property investment

• Access to first home buyer schemes and concessions (in some states)

Travel Rights and International Flexibility

PRs receive a 5-year travel facility that allows multiple entries to and from Australia. If you wish to travel after the 5 years expire, you’ll need to apply for a Resident Return visa (subclass 155 or 157) or obtain Australian citizenship for unrestricted re-entry rights.

Work Opportunities in New Zealand

As a permanent resident of Australia, you may be eligible to work in New Zealand under special trans-Tasman arrangements, expanding your employment opportunities across two countries.

Limitations of PR Compared to Citizenship

While permanent residency provides many rights, it does not offer:

• An automatic right of return to Australia after your travel facility expires

• Voting rights in federal or state elections (except in very limited cases)

• Access to government student loans

• The ability to work in certain Australian Government or defence roles

How to Become a Permanent Resident

There are several visa streams that lead to permanent residency, including:

• Family Stream – Designed for close family members of Australian citizens or permanent residents. This includes:

  • Partner visas (Subclass 801, 100)

  • Parent visas (Subclass 143, 804, 103)

  • Child visas (Subclass 101, 802)

  • Carer visas (Subclass 116, 836)

• Work Stream – For skilled workers who are sponsored by an employer or nominated by a state or territory. Common options include:

  • Skilled Migration Visas (Subclass 189), State sponsored (Subclass 190) & Regional Visa (Subclass 491)

  • Employer Sponsored Visas: Employer nomination scheme visa (186)

• Business and Investor Stream – For individuals looking to own, manage, or invest in a business in Australia. Includes:

  • Business Innovation and Investment Visa (Subclass 188 & 888)

  • Business Talent Visa (Subclass 132 – closed to new applicants)

• Other Permanent Pathways:

  • National Visa (Subclass 858) – for highly skilled individuals in target sectors.

Benefits of Becoming a Permanent Resident in Australia

Australia offers a safe, prosperous, and multicultural environment where permanent residents can thrive. Whether your goal is long-term employment, family reunification, or citizenship, PR status is a vital milestone in securing your future.

Want to become a permanent resident in Australia? Book a consultation with RACC Australia, and we’ll help you find the most suitable visa pathway, prepare your application, and guide you all the way to PR and beyond.

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