The vast majority of Australian visas have an age limit of 44, meaning those who have attained the age of 45 are not eligible to apply for an Australian visa.
This article provides information about alternative options for migrants over the age of 45. The country has a higher demand for younger migrants, but there are still options available for those over 45, particularly if the purpose of stay is to invest in the country or start a business.
1. Parent Visa
If you are over 45 years old and have a family member who is an Australian citizen or an Australian permanent resident, and that person is currently residing in Australia, you may be eligible for a Parent Visa.
Six categories of parent visas are available to these class of persons and include the following subclasses:
| Parent Visa | subclass 103 | permanent |
| Contributory Parent visa | Subclass 173 | Temporary |
| Contributory Parent Visa | Subclass 143 | Permanent |
| Aged Parent Visa | Subclass 804 | Permanent |
| Aged Dependent Relative Visa | Subclass 838 | Onshore |
| Aged Dependent Relative Visa | Subclass 114 | Offshore |
| Contributory Aged Parent Visa | Subclass 884 | Temporary |
| Contributory Aged Parent Visa | Subclass 864 | Permanent |
| Sponsored Parent Visa | Subclass 870 | Temporary |
2. Partner Visa
To qualify for this visa, you must be married to or in a de facto relationship with an Australian citizen or permanent resident. A genuine and continuing relationship must exist between you and your Australian spouse or partner. The age of the applicant is not a factor in whether you will be granted this visa.
3. Distinguished Talent (subclass 858) Visa
The Distinguished Talent visa is intended for people who have achieved a high level of recognition in their field. Nomination by the peak body in your profession, sport, art or academic research is required. Your work must benefit the Australian community either economically, socially, culturally or to raise Australia’s academic standing internationally.
Applicants must be between 18 and 55 years of age, but those older than 55 may still be eligible if they can demonstrate exceptional benefit to the Australian community.
4. Temporary Skill Shortage (subclass 482) Visa
The Temporary Graduate (subclass 482) visa is for skilled workers who are undertaking an Australian graduate program and have a valid nomination from an Australian business sponsor. This visa contains no age restrictions, however, the Permanent Employer Sponsored (subclass 186) visa, the permanent version of this visa, has an age limit of 45 years, meaning it would generally not be possible to transition to the permanent stage of the 482 visa if you originally applied while already 45 years of age or older.
5. Business Innovation and Investment (Provisional) (subclass 188) Visa
Business Innovation and Investment (Provisional) (subclass 188) Visa is for those who wish to own and manage a business in Australia or conduct business and investment activity. You must generally be under 55 years of age and the State or Territory Government may waive the age requirement if your proposed business or investment contribution will benefit the State or Territory in which you intend to migrate.
At Australia Migration Services, our experienced immigration experts are readily available to assist you in obtaining a visa. We provide a personalised and timely service from beginning to end to ensure that you receive the outcome you deserve.
For more information about the age requirement for Australian visas, contact Australia Migration Services. We have experts who can assist you with any questions you have about visas.
