If you’re considering moving to Australia but are unsure about the age requirements, understanding the age restrictions for various migration programs can help you plan your immigration journey better. Before diving in, it’s essential to know the age limits for different Australian visas and their basic requirements. Let’s break it down for you.

General Skilled Migration Visas

For General Skilled Migration Visas, such as the Subclass 189 Skilled Independent Visa, Subclass 190 Skilled Nominated Visa, and Subclass 491 Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa, there’s a strict age limit of 45 years.

Unfortunately, there are no exceptions to this rule. Even if you’ve already submitted your Expression of Interest (EOI) and are waiting for an invitation, if you turn 45, your EOI will be automatically terminated on your birthday. It’s a tough rule, but it’s important to know upfront.

Employer Migration Visas

When it comes to Employer Migration Visas, the age criteria can be a bit different. For example, the Subclass 482 Temporary Skill Shortage Visa has age limitations that can impact your future eligibility for the Subclass 186 Employer Nomination Scheme Visa.

Generally, if you’re over 45, advancing to a permanent employer visa can be challenging unless you meet certain conditions. There are exemptions for specific cases, such as medical professionals, academic staff, researchers, scientists, some New Zealand nationals, and those on Subclass 482 visas who have been sponsored for at least three years and meet the high-income threshold.

These exemptions also apply to the Subclass 494 Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) Visa, which has an age limit of 45 years despite being a temporary visa.

Temporary Graduate Visa

Big update here! On April 24, 2024, the Australian government announced that the age limit for the Subclass 485 Temporary Graduate Visa has been lowered to 35 years or younger for both the Graduate Work Stream and the Post-Study Work Stream.

However, holders of British National Overseas passports and those from Hong Kong can still apply as long as they are under 50. These changes are set to take effect on July 1, 2024, pending legislative modifications.

Student Visa (Subclass 500)

For those looking at the Student Visa (Subclass 500), there is no upper age limit. However, your age might be considered during the application process.

For instance, if you’re over 40 and applying for a student visa, you’ll need to provide supporting documentation such as employment history or further education details if you’ve taken a break. Special welfare arrangements are required for applicants under 18.

Options for Migrants Over 45 Years

If you’re over 45, your options under the skilled migration program are limited. However, there are still possibilities. The Global Talent Visa has an age limit of 55, but this is reserved for highly qualified professionals.

Another option is the Investor Visa program, which allows applicants up to 55 years old and requires an investment of $1 million to $5 million in Australia. Additionally, there are exemptions available through the Australian DAMA (Designated Area Migration Agreement) scheme.

Thanks to sticking to us if you want any question you can feel free to ask us in the comments section and we’ll be more than happy to help you.