Australia's immigration policies often prioritize younger skilled workers, with points-based skilled migration programs typically requiring applicants to be under 45. However, this age limit does not apply to all visa categories.
Skilled Visa Options After Age 45
While the main skilled visa streams have a 45-year age limit, there are other work-related pathways available for older applicants, including temporary options and visas for those with exceptional talent.
Temporary Skilled Options (Subclass 482 and Beyond)
The Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa (subclass 482) has no upper age limit. While the direct pathway to permanent residency via the Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) visa (subclass 186) usually requires applicants to be under 45, exemptions can apply. These exemptions include certain high-income earners on a subclass 482 visa, academics, medical practitioners, scientific researchers, and individuals with long-term skilled work experience in Australia.
Global Talent Visa (Subclass 858)
The Global Talent visa is for individuals with exceptional achievements. While generally for those under 55, an age exemption can be made if the applicant's contributions would significantly benefit Australia.
Family and Investment-Based Visas: No Age Barriers
Family and investment visas are not subject to the same age restrictions as skilled migration, providing viable options for older migrants.
Partner and Family Visas
There is no upper age limit for Partner visas or most Family visas, provided the relationship is genuine and other requirements are met.
Parent Visas
Parents with eligible children in Australia may apply for a Parent visa. Options include permanent and temporary visas. Aged Parent visas are for those old enough to receive the Australian pension (currently 67). Parent visas can involve significant costs and waiting times.
Business and Investment Visas
Historically, Business Innovation and Investment Program visas (subclass 188) provided a path for high-net-worth individuals, with age waivers possible based on the economic benefit of their investment. Note that new applications for the 188 visa streams are no longer being accepted.
Comparison of Visa Options for Older Migrants
| Visa Category | Age Limit | Key Requirements | Typical Path |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skilled Migration (GSM) | Under 45 at invitation | Points test (65+ points), skilled occupation, English proficiency | Ineligible after turning 45, barring specific employer exemptions. |
| Skills in Demand Visa (Subclass 482) | None | Employer sponsorship, meet skill and English requirements | Temporary visa with potential for permanent residency via ENS with exemptions. |
| Global Talent Visa (Subclass 858) | Generally under 55 | Exceptional and outstanding achievement recognized internationally | Possible for applicants over 55 if they demonstrate exceptional benefit to Australia. |
| Partner Visa (Subclasses 820/801) | None (18+) | Genuine and committed relationship with an Australian partner | Two-stage process to temporary and then permanent residency. |
| Aged Parent Visa (Subclass 804/864) | 67+ (Australian pension age) | Sponsored by eligible child, Balance of Family test met, meet health/character requirements | Permanent visa for parents of Australian citizens/PRs. |
| Contributory Parent Visa (Subclass 143/173) | None | Same as Parent visa, with a substantial financial contribution for faster processing | Pathway for parents, with a higher cost for significantly shorter waiting times. |
Alternative Strategies for Older Applicants
If traditional visa categories aren't suitable, consider other options, such as migrating to New Zealand first or focusing on employer-sponsored pathways with age exemptions.
New Zealand Pathway
Migrating to New Zealand first can be an option, as their policies for older applicants can be more flexible. New Zealand citizens can live and work in Australia indefinitely.
Focusing on Employer-Sponsored Pathways with Exemptions
Employer-sponsored visas with age exemptions, such as the ENS for certain high-income earners on a TSS visa, can provide a path to permanent residency after 45.
Conclusion
While skilled migration to Australia has age limitations, there is no overall oldest age for moving to the country. Family-based visas, particularly Partner and Parent visas, offer pathways without upper age limits. Employer-sponsored visas with specific exemptions and the Global Talent visa also provide possibilities for older applicants. Exploring options via New Zealand is another strategy. Determining the best approach requires evaluating individual circumstances, including qualifications, family ties, and financial situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens to my skilled visa application if I turn 45 before receiving an invitation? If you turn 45 before receiving an invitation to apply for a points-tested skilled visa like the subclass 189 or 190, you become ineligible for that program and will not be invited to apply. You will need to consider other visa options.
Are there any skilled visas without an age limit? Yes, the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa (subclass 482) does not have an upper age limit. However, this is a temporary visa, and transitioning to permanent residency (via subclass 186) typically has a 45-year age limit, though exemptions exist for specific categories.
Is there a way for a 50-year-old skilled worker to get permanent residency? Yes, it is possible. A 50-year-old skilled worker could potentially gain permanent residency via the Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) (subclass 186) if they meet an age exemption. For example, a high-income earner on a TSS visa can transition to the permanent 186 visa even if they are over 45.
How can a retired person move to Australia? Retired individuals can move to Australia primarily through family-based visas, such as Parent visas, if they have eligible children living there permanently. Aged Parent visas are for those over 67, but can be costly and have long waiting times. The Significant Investor visa is also an option for those with substantial resources.
Is there an age limit for a Partner visa? No, there is no upper age limit for Partner visas (subclass 820/801). As long as you and your partner are both over 18 and can prove you are in a genuine and committed relationship, you can apply regardless of age.
Can an older parent with no money move to Australia? Yes, but options are very limited and have extremely long waiting times. The non-contributory Parent visa (subclass 103) is an option, but processing can take decades. The Sponsored Parent (Temporary) visa (subclass 870) may also be an option for up to five years.
What is the 'Balance of Family' test for Parent visas? This test requires that at least half of your children are Australian citizens or permanent residents who are usually resident in Australia. This is a requirement for many Parent visa categories.
Can an older applicant with exceptional skills still migrate? Yes. The Global Talent visa (subclass 858) is designed for individuals with internationally recognised achievements. While there's a general age expectation under 55, an age waiver can be considered if the applicant can demonstrate they would be of exceptional benefit to Australia.
