Determine which visa under the migration program you qualify for. The skill migration stream is made up of categories for applicants with particular occupation or business skills who would contribute to the Australian economy. The family migration stream allows a visa applicant to be sponsored by a relative with Australian citizenship or permanent residency. Both types of visas will allow you to live, work and study permanently in Australia. It also makes you eligible for health care and eventually Australian citizenship.
Review Australia's Skilled Occupation List (see resources) if you wish to apply for a working visa or skilled independent visa. You must be between the ages of 18-45 and have the qualifications for one of the occupations on the list, in addition to passing an assessment of your ability to satisfy basic visa criteria. Each occupation listed on the SOL is assigned a points value, and a passing grade of 120 points is required to receive your visa.
Proceed with the corresponding program if you are applying for a family-related visa. There are several options for potential spouses, partners, children, parents and other family members of Australian citizens, along with a different application for each one (see resources). Make the selection according to your future living arrangement.
Register on the website of the Australian Department of Immigration and Citizenship (see resources) if you'd like to complete your visa application online, otherwise locate the Australian embassy or consulate nearest you (see resources) to apply in person. The minimum travel documents that will be requested of you in either case are a valid passport and a signed incoming passenger card, including health and character declaration.
