For many Sri Lankans dreaming of permanent residency in Australia, understanding how to get work visa of Australia is often the first step in a longer journey. While most people focus on the popular Skilled Independent (Subclass 189) or State Nominated (Subclass 190) visas, several alternative pathways can lead to Australian PR, especially for those who may not meet the high points requirements or have specialised circumstances.
Let’s explore five lesser-known routes that could be your ticket to calling Australia home.
1. Skilled Work Regional Visa: The Two-Step Regional Route (Subclass 491 to 191)
The regional pathway offers one of the most accessible routes to Australian PR, yet many overlook it in favour of metropolitan-focused visas.
How It Works:
- Obtain a Subclass 491 provisional visa through state/territory nomination or family sponsorship
- Commit to living and working in a designated regional area for three years
- Transition to permanent residency via the Subclass 191 visa
Why Consider This Path:
- Lower points score requirements compared to 189/190 visas
- Broader range of eligible occupations
- Regional areas often have faster processing times
- Provides a clear roadmap to permanent residency
This pathway works particularly well for professionals in healthcare, trades, and IT who are willing to embrace regional living while building their Australian experience.
2. Employer Nomination Scheme: Direct Entry Beyond the TSS Route (Subclass 186)
While many Sri Lankans know about the Temporary Skill Shortage (Subclass 482) visa, the direct PR pathway through employer nomination remains relatively unknown.
There are two streams under this pathway:
Direct Entry Stream:
- Be under 45 years old on the date you lodge your application, unless exempt
- Be nominated for an occupation on the Core Skills Occupation List
- Requires employer nomination and high English proficiency
- Three years of relevant work experience needed
- No requirement to work temporarily first
Labour Agreement Stream:
- The most niche option for specialised roles
- Available when employers have formal agreements with the Australian government
- Ideal for highly specialised or emerging industry roles
This pathway suits experienced professionals who can secure employer sponsorship directly, bypassing the temporary visa stage entirely.
3. Nation Innovation Visa: Fast-Track for Exceptional Achievers (Subclass 858)
The Nation Innovation Visa Program offers a direct PR pathway for individuals with exceptional skills in targeted, future-focused sectors.
To grant this visa, you should have an internationally recognised record of exceptional achievement in one of the following areas:
- A profession
- A sport
- The arts
- Academia and research
What Makes This Special:
- No points test required
- Bypasses standard occupation lists
- Fast-tracked processing
- Requires nomination from an eligible Australian organisation or individual in your field
Who Should Apply:
This visa suits researchers, tech innovators, academics, and industry leaders with internationally recognised achievements. If you’ve published significant research, led major projects, or received industry awards, this could be your pathway.
4. Business Innovation Route: For Entrepreneurs and Investors (Subclass 188 to 888)
For Sri Lankan business owners and investors, the business innovation pathway provides an alternative to skill-based migration.
The Process:
- Start with Subclass 188 provisional visa (multiple streams available)
- Establish and operate a successful business or maintain compliant investments
- Transition to permanent Subclass 888 visa
Available Business Streams:
- Business Innovation Stream: For active business owners
- Investor Stream: For significant investment in Australian securities
- Entrepreneur Stream: For innovative business ideas with funding
5. Graduate to Employer Sponsorship: The Study-Work-PR Pipeline (Subclass 485 to 482 to 186)
This combined pathway leverages Australian education as a direct pathway to permanent residency.
The Complete Journey:
- Study: Complete an eligible qualification at an Australian institution
- Graduate Visa: Obtain Subclass 485 (2-4 years of work rights)
- Gain Experience: Secure skilled employment and accumulate Australian work experience
- Employer Sponsorship: Transition to Subclass 482 work visa
- Permanent Residency: Apply for Subclass 186 after two years
Strategic Advantages:
- Australian qualification adds points for skilled visas
- Time to build professional networks
- Accumulate valuable Australian work experience
- Opportunity to improve English proficiency
How IMM Consult Can Help You Navigate These Pathways
Navigating Australian immigration law is complex, and the stakes are high. A single mistake in your application can lead to delays, rejections, or even visa cancellations.
We support your journey through:
- Pathway assessment: We evaluate your qualifications, experience, and circumstances to recommend the most suitable visa pathway.
- Documentation guidance: Ensure all required documents are properly prepared, certified, and submitted
- Skills assessment coordination: Help you navigate occupation-specific assessment bodies and requirements
- Points optimisation: Identify opportunities to maximise your points score for skilled migration
- Application preparation: Complete forms accurately and compile comprehensive evidence to strengthen your case
Navigating Australian visa pathways doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Our experienced immigration consultants specialise in helping Sri Lankans successfully transition from work visas to permanent residency. Contact IMM Consult today for a personalised assessment and let us turn your Australian dream into reality.
