It's impossible to give a precise number of months for obtaining Australian permanent residency (PR). The time it takes varies greatly based on your individual circumstances and the visa pathway you choose.
Factors Affecting Processing Time:
- Visa Subclass: Different visa subclasses have different processing times. Some, like the Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189), may take longer than others, such as the Partner visa (subclass 820).
- Country of Origin: Processing times can vary depending on your country of origin.
- Complexity of Application: The complexity of your application, including the volume of supporting documentation, can influence processing time.
- Demand and Capacity: Processing times can be influenced by the overall demand for visas and the capacity of the Department of Home Affairs to process applications.
General Timelines:
- Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189): Processing times can range from several months to over a year.
- Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190): Processing times can vary depending on the state or territory nominating you.
- Partner Visa (subclass 820): The initial stage of this visa can take several months, while the permanent stage (subclass 801) can take longer.
Checking Processing Times:
You can find estimated processing times for different visa subclasses on the Department of Home Affairs website: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-processing-times
Remember:
- These are just estimates, and your actual processing time may vary.
- It's essential to apply well in advance of your desired arrival date.
