Australia PR pathways compared
| Route | Time | Key point |
|---|---|---|
| 189 Skilled Independent | 6 to 12 months | Invitation, under 45, assessment, 65+ points |
| 190 Skilled Nominated | 8 to 12 months | State nomination adds 5 points |
| 491 then 191 | 491: 11 to 15 months; 191 after 3 years | Regional; 15 points; income test |
| 186 Employer | 8 to 12 months (Direct Entry) | Sponsor; 3 years experience; no points test |
| 858 National Innovation | Variable; priority under 6 months | Top-tier achievement; no points test |
| 309/100 Partner offshore | 309: 12 to 24 months; 100 about 2 years later | Partner of citizen, PR or NZ citizen |
| 820/801 Partner onshore | 820: 13 to 21 months; 801 about 2 years later | Same relationship |
| 143 Contributory Parent | Many years | Second charge applies |
| 866 Protection | Highly variable | Decided on the claim |
Details: skilled, work, partner, contributory parent, National Innovation.
FAQ
Which is fastest?
Skilled and employer routes had the shortest median times in this table.
Do all need points?
No: 186, 858, partner and 143 do not.
Is this advice?
No. See migration agents.