Australia is one of the most sought-after destinations for Sri Lankans who wish to build a better future abroad. With its thriving economy, top-ranked universities, diverse job market, and high quality of life, many individuals and families decide to migrate to Australia from Sri Lanka each year.
This comprehensive guide will help you navigate everything from visa types to eligibility requirements, documentation, costs, and why working with us can make the entire journey stress-free.
Why Are Sri Lankans Choosing Australia?
Over the last decade, the number of Sri Lankans migrating to Australia has significantly increased. Here are a few reasons why:
1. Better Career Opportunities
Australia is actively looking for skilled professionals across sectors such as IT, healthcare, construction, engineering, education, and hospitality. With a skills shortage in these industries, Sri Lankan professionals have a strong chance of securing jobs that pay well and offer career growth.
2. World-Class Education
Australia has top-ranking universities like the University of Melbourne, Australian National University, and the University of Sydney. Many Sri Lankan students choose to study in Australia not only for quality education but also for the possibility of staying and working afterward through post-study work visas.
3. Pathway to Permanent Residency
One of the biggest advantages of choosing Australia is its clear and structured path from temporary visa to Australia PR and eventually citizenship.
4. Safe and Multicultural Society
With a strong presence of the Sri Lankan diaspora, Australia offers a welcoming environment that makes settling in easier for new immigrants.
Steps to Migrate to Australia from Sri Lanka
Step 1: Choose the Right Visa Pathway
The first step to migrate to Australia is selecting the correct visa type based on your goal. The most popular visas include Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189), and Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190).
Step 2: Check Your Eligibility and Calculate Points
For skilled migration visas like Subclass 189, 190, and 491, you need to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect. You must score at least 65 points based on:
- Age (18-44 years)
- English language proficiency (IELTS/PTE)
- Work experience
- Educational qualifications
- Australian study or work experience (if any)
- Partner skills
- Nomination or sponsorship
The higher your score, the better your chances of receiving an invitation.
Step 3: Get Your Skills Assessed
Your qualifications and work experience must be verified by a relevant assessing authority in Australia. This step ensures your professional background matches Australian standards. The assessment process may take 8–12 weeks and requires submitting educational transcripts, work experience letters, and proof of English proficiency.
Step 4: English Language Requirements
All applicants must prove their proficiency in English by taking tests such as:
- IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
- PTE (Pearson Test of English)
- TOEFL
Most skilled visas require a minimum IELTS band of 6 in each section (Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking) or equivalent in PTE.
Step 5: Submit Your Expression of Interest (EOI)
Once you have cleared your skills assessment and English test, it is time to create your profile on SkillSelect and submit an Expression of Interest (EOI). You will need to:
- Select your preferred visa category
- Enter personal details, qualifications, and experience
- Choose your occupation from the Skilled Occupation List
- Wait for an invitation to apply (based on your points and visa type)
Step 6: Apply for Your PR Visa
Once you receive an invitation, you must apply for the visa within 60 days. The application includes:
- Online form submission
- Uploading documents: identity, education, employment, health, and character
- Payment of visa fees
Typical processing time ranges from 6 to 12 months, depending on the visa subclass and application quality.
Cost Breakdown for Australia PR
The total cost of obtaining an Australia PR Visa varies based on the visa category, number of applicants, and additional fees. Below is a detailed breakdown of the expenses:
1. Visa Application Fee
The primary applicant needs to pay the following visa fees:
- Primary Applicant: AUD 4,770 (INR 2,57,580)
- Spouse/Partner: AUD 2,385 (INR 1,28,790)
- Per Dependent Child: AUD 1,195 (INR 64,580)
2. Skills Assessment Fee
- Applicants must get their qualifications assessed by a relevant skills authority. This fee depends on the occupation and assessing body but generally ranges between AUD 500 to AUD 1,500 (INR 27,000 - 82,000).
3. English Language Test
- Most applicants need to prove their English proficiency through IELTS or PTE. The cost of these tests is approximately AUD 320 (INR 17,500).
4. Medical Examination
- A medical test is mandatory for PR applicants and usually costs AUD 300 (INR 16,500) per person.
5. Police Clearance Certificate
- A police clearance certificate (PCC) is required from all countries where the applicant has lived for 12 months or more in the past 10 years. The cost varies, but in India, it is approximately AUD 20 (INR 1,100).
6. State Nomination Fee (If Applicable)
- For applicants applying through the State Nomination pathway, an additional fee may apply, ranging from AUD 200 to AUD 800 (INR 11,000 - 44,000).
7. Miscellaneous Expenses
- Translations and Documentation: AUD 100 - 500 (INR 5,500 - 27,500)
- Travel Costs: AUD 1,000+ (INR 55,000+)
How Cross-Border Education Can Help You?
If the process feels overwhelming, that’s completely understandable. Australian immigration is complex and competitive, and one mistake can delay or even deny your visa. That’s where Cross-Border Education comes in. We are regarded as the Best Immigration Consultant in India.
- Personalized visa consultation
- Expert support with skill assessment, documentation, and EOI
- Assistance with SOPs, resumes, interview prep, and English test guidance
- Transparency and ethical services
- Track record of successful PR and student visa approvals
Conclusion
Australia offers a world of opportunity for Sri Lankans who are ready to take the leap. Whether you want to boost your career, access global education, or give your family a better future, the Australian immigration system offers clear pathways to achieve it.
