Moving to Australia from the US - 2026 Guide
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Australia

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Policy Overview

Australia's immigration system is highly focused on skilled migration to fill labor market needs, using a points-based system for many visa categories.

Short-Term Entry & Tourist Rules

US citizens need an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) for short-term tourist or business visits up to 90 days.

Long-Term Residency Paths

Skilled Worker (New 'Skills in Demand' Visa)
The Skilled Professional

Path: Specialist Stream: Salary AUD 135,000+ (7-day processing). Core Skills Stream: Salary AUD 73,150+ (Must be on the 450+ occupation list).

Student Path (Subclass 500)
The International Student

Savings: Must show AUD 29,710 in a bank account for living costs.

Work Rights: Capped at 48 hours per fortnight.

Retirement Path
The Retiree

Note: No direct visa for retirees without Australian family. Most Americans stay 6 months as visitors.

Citizenship by Descent
Ancestry & Heritage Path

Path: If at least one parent was an Australian citizen at the time of your birth, you can apply for Citizenship by Descent. This does not typically extend to grandparents.

US Tax Warning

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