How do you apply for a visa to live in Australia in 2026?

Visitor visas and Electronic Travel Authority products cover tourism and limited short stays. They are not a substitute for skilled migration or partner residence. Skilled pathways (including points-tested and state-nominated options) suit people with occupations on current lists and the required English, skills, and age evidence. Partner and family visas follow relationship and sponsorship rules. Employer-sponsored visas need a nominating business. Student visas centre on a registered course. Working Holiday and Work and Holiday visas exist only for eligible passport countries and age bands.

Check the live subclass page on immi.homeaffairs.gov.au for documents, fees, and processing notes before you pay an agent. Rules and occupation lists change. Country To Live residence pages and this answer help you orient; they do not replace the official checklist for your subclass.

Create an ImmiAccount on the official Home Affairs site to lodge most online visas, attach documents, pay, and receive messages. Do not use random “visa agent portal” lookalikes. After grant, use VEVO to confirm work rights, study conditions, and expiry for employers and yourself. Keep passport details aligned with the grant; update Home Affairs if your passport or address changes: Update your address.

Once onshore with work rights, sequence TFN, bank account, Medicare or OVHC, and myGov. Freelancers may also need an ABN if their visa allows self-employment.