Australia continues to be a top destination for Chinese citizens looking to work, study, invest, or live permanently abroad. With its multicultural society, robust economy, world-class universities, and high quality of life, Australia offers Chinese migrants a better future not just for individuals but for families too. This blog will walk you through everything you need to know about how to migrate to Australia from China in 2025.
Why do Chinese Citizens Migrate to Australia?
Australia has long-standing economic and educational ties with China. Here’s why Chinese nationals prefer Australia:
- Job opportunities in skilled sectors such as IT, engineering, nursing, and education
- Globally ranked universities like ANU, University of Melbourne, UNSW, etc.
- Pathways to Permanent Residency and eventually citizenship
- Clean and safe environment
- Chinese communities in major cities make settling easier
Top 5 Visa Options for Chinese Migrants
Australia offers several visa streams tailored to different needs. Here’s a breakdown of the most common ones:
1. Skilled Migration Visa
This is the most popular route for Chinese professionals who wish to work and settle in Australia.
- Subclass 189 - Skilled Independent Visa: It is for professionals with in-demand skills and no sponsor required.
- Subclass 190 - Skilled Nominated Visa: This requires nomination by an Australian state or territory. It offers faster processing and state-specific benefits.
- Subclass 491 - Skilled Work Regional Visa: This encourages skilled migrants to live and work in regional Australia.
2. Student Visa (Subclass 500)
This is ideal for Chinese students seeking international degrees in fields like business, medicine, and computer science. Studying in Australia also offers a Post-Study Work Visa, which can lead to Australian PR. The requirements are as follows:
- Offer letter from an Australian institution
- Proof of funds
- English proficiency (IELTS/PTE)
- OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover)
3. Employer-Sponsored Visa
If you receive a job offer from an Australian company, this is your best route.
- Subclass 482 (TSS): Temporary visa for up to 4 years
- Subclass 186 (ENS): Employer-sponsored permanent visa
- Subclass 494: Regional employer-sponsored visa
4. Business and Investment Visas
Australia encourages wealthy individuals and entrepreneurs through the Business Innovation and Investment Program.
- Subclass 188: For investors, entrepreneurs, and business innovators
- Subclass 888: PR visa after fulfilling business/investment activity criteria
5. Partner and Family Visas
If your spouse or close family member is an Australian PR, you may be eligible for:
- Partner Visa (Subclass 820/801)
- Parent Visa (Subclass 103 or 804)
- Child Visa (Subclass 101)
Step-by-Step Migration Process from China to Australia
Here is a detailed walk-through of what the process looks like:
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
Start by checking the occupation list and your score on the Australian immigration points calculator. You will need to assess:
Step 2: Get a Skills Assessment
Each profession has a designated assessing authority. For example:
- Engineers: Engineers Australia
- Accountants: CPA Australia
- IT Professionals: ACS (Australian Computer Society)
Your qualifications and experience must be verified and aligned with Australian standards.
Step 3: Take an English Language Test
Accepted English tests for most visas are IELTS and PTE Academic. The minimum score for skilled visas: IELTS 6.0 in each band (higher scores increase points)
Step 4: Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)
You will have to submit an EOI through the SkillSelect portal including the visa subclass you are applying for.
Step 5: Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA)
Once your profile ranks competitively, you will get an Invitation to Apply (ITA). This allows you to proceed with a full visa application.
Step 6: Apply for Visa
Submit all required documents online:
- Passport
- Education and work experience proof
- Skills assessment
- English test results
- Medical and police checks
- Nomination or sponsorship evidence (if applicable)
Processing Time of Australian Visas
Visa processing times vary:
- Subclass 189: 6-8 months
- Subclass 190: 4-6 months
- Student visa: 1-2 months
- Employer-sponsored: 2-4 months
- Business visas: More than 12 months
Conclusion
Migrating to Australia from China is a big step, but with the right guidance, it can be stress-free and successful. Cross Border Education offers personalized support for skilled, student, partner, and business visas. From profile evaluation to final application, we help you navigate the Australian immigration system with confidence.
