Age limit for residency pathways
The majority of Australian visas come with an age restriction, typically capping eligibility at 44 years. This implies that individuals aged 45 and above are not qualified to apply for Australian residency visa.
This article explores alternative avenues accessible to individuals aged 45 and beyond. Despite Australia's preference for younger immigrants, there are still viable visa options for those over 45, especially if their intent is related to investment or business activities. Australian immigration may also consider age waivers under age-capped categories.
Visa options for individuals aged 45 and above
Parent Visa
Individuals aged 45 and above may qualify for the parent visa subclass if they have a family member who is an Australian citizen or permanent resident residing in the country. There are six categories of parent visas available, including subclasses such as permanent, temporary, aged parent, aged dependent relative (onshore and offshore), contributory aged parent (temporary and permanent), and sponsored parent (temporary).
Partner Visa
This visa is granted to those in a genuine relationship with an Australian citizen or permanent resident. Eligibility is not influenced by age, meaning individuals older than 45 can still apply.
Distinguished Talent (subclass 858) Visa
Designed for individuals with an internationally recognised record of exceptional achievements in professions, sports, arts, or academia. Applicants must generally be between 18 and 55 years old. However, those older than 55 may be eligible if their skills and contributions are of exceptional benefit to the Australian community.
Skills in Demand Visa (SID) (subclass 482) Visa
Applicable to skilled workers willing to work in Australian sectors facing a skilled shortage, with no age restrictions. However, the Permanent Employer Sponsored (subclass 186) visa, the permanent version, has an age limit of 45 years despite several exemptions listed further down this page.
Business Innovation and Investment (Provisional) (subclass 188) Visa
For those looking to own and manage a business or engage in business and investment activities in Australia. Generally, applicants should be under 55 years old, but the nominating State or Territory may waive this requirement if the proposed business or investment brings exceptional economic benefit.
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Age exemptions under age-capped categories
Permanent skill-based visas for Australia typically come with an age limit of 44. Once an individual reaches the age of 45, many permanent visa opportunities are no longer available. In some rare cases, permanent residence may still be an option, especially for high-income earners, but such possibilities are highly restricted once you pass the age of 45.
186 and 187 Visa (transition stream) age exemptions
Generally, the age limit for certain visas in Australia is set at less than 45 years. However, exemptions are available for applicants who meet specific criteria, including:
Senior Academic or Scientific/Technical Specialist Nominations:
- Nominated as a senior academic by an Australian university.
- Nominated as a scientist, researcher, or technical specialist at ANZSCO skill level one or two by an Australian government scientific agency.
Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) Stream:
- Applying through the TRT stream and have been working for the nominating employer under a TSS or subclass 457 visa for the last three years.
- Earnings were at least equivalent to the Fair Work High Income Threshold ($175,000) for each year over that period.
Medical Practitioners:
- Applying through the TRT stream (subclass 186) and meet specific criteria, including regional work requirements.
Special Category or New Zealand Citizen Family Relationship Visa Holders:
- Holders of Special Category visa (subclass 444) or New Zealand Citizen Family Relationship (Temporary) visa (subclass 461) working for the nominating employer for at least two years in the last three years.
Labour Agreement Stream:
- Applying through the Labour Agreement stream (subclass 482 and subclass 494), and the relevant agreement allows for employment of a person over 45.
Additionally, there are transitional arrangements for the Temporary Residence Transition stream, allowing individuals over 45 but under 50 to apply if they held or were an applicant for a subclass 457 visa on April 18, 2017.
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