Which work visa can lead to Australian citizenship?

In Australia, no working visa grants citizenship directly. However, certain working visas can lead to permanent residency, which is the required step before applying for citizenship.

Common work visa pathways that can lead to citizenship include:

Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa – subclass 482

If you work for an eligible employer and your occupation is on the Medium and Long term Strategic Skills List, you may be sponsored for permanent residency after at least three years, usually through the Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186).

Skilled Independent visa – subclass 189

A points tested permanent visa for skilled workers without employer sponsorship. If granted, you become a permanent resident immediately and can start the citizenship eligibility period.

Skilled Nominated visa – subclass 190

A points tested permanent visa for skilled workers nominated by an Australian state or territory government. Permanent residency begins once granted.

Employer Nomination Scheme – subclass 186

A permanent visa for workers nominated by an Australian employer. You can apply for citizenship after meeting residency requirements.

Once you hold permanent residency, you can generally apply for Australian citizenship after living in Australia for at least four years, including at least one year as a permanent resident, while meeting other eligibility conditions.