Australian visa types for Irish citizens
Guides to the visa types Irish applicants ask about most.
Subclass 186
Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186)
Permanent residency sponsored by an Australian employer. The most realistic PR route for Irish workers already in Australia on a 482.
Government fee: A$6,140 · Permanent
Subclass 651
eVisitor Visa (Subclass 651)
Free online visa for Irish citizens visiting Australia for tourism or short business trips. Valid 12 months, with stays of up to three months each visit.
Government fee: Free · Up to 3 months per visit
Subclass 820/801 & 309/100
Partner Visa (820/801 and 309/100)
For partners of Australian citizens and permanent residents. A two-stage visa leading to permanent residency, and the most expensive common application.
Government fee: A$11,710 · Temporary, then permanent
Subclass 189/190/491
Permanent Residency Pathways
Skilled migration routes to Australian permanent residency for Irish citizens, plus the employer-sponsored alternative that many people reach more easily.
Government fee: A$6,135 · Permanent
Subclass 417
Second Year Working Holiday Visa
Extend your Australian adventure with a second Working Holiday year after completing three months of specified regional work.
Government fee: A$1,000 · Additional 12 months
Subclass 482
Skills in Demand Visa (Subclass 482)
Work in Australia for up to four years for an approved employer who sponsors you. The main route for Irish workers over the Working Holiday age limit.
Government fee: A$4,015 · Up to 4 years
Subclass 500
Student Visa (Subclass 500)
Study full time in Australia with work rights of 48 hours per fortnight. Requires enrolment with a registered provider and evidence you can fund your stay.
Government fee: A$2,500 · Course duration, usually up to 5 years
Subclass 417
Third Year Working Holiday Visa
A third year in Australia after completing six months of specified work on your second Working Holiday visa. Three years in total.
Government fee: A$1,000 · Additional 12 months
Subclass 600
Visitor Visa (Subclass 600)
For visits longer than three months, family visits with a sponsor, or cases where the free eVisitor is not suitable. Several streams with different rules.
Government fee: A$250 · Up to 12 months, stream dependent
Subclass 417
Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 417)
Live, work and travel in Australia for up to 12 months. The most popular visa for young Irish citizens heading Down Under.
Government fee: A$840 · Up to 12 months