Thinking of starting a new life in Australia? You’re not alone. In 2025, Australia continues to welcome skilled workers from across Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and beyond — especially those in health, construction, tech, trades, and education.
But here’s the best part: contrary to what many believe, the total upfront cost to migrate through a skilled worker route (such as the Subclass 189 or 190 visa) can be as low as $4,600 USD, depending on your profession, situation, and how much of the process you handle yourself.
This guide shows you how to make it happen — without paying hidden agent fees or falling into debt.
🇦🇺 Why Australia?
Australia isn’t just about kangaroos and stunning beaches. It’s a country that offers:
- High salaries (avg. skilled salary: $65,000–$120,000/year)
- A world-class healthcare system (Medicare access for PR holders)
- Free or subsidized education for children
- A multicultural, immigrant-friendly society
- Clear migration pathways to Permanent Residency (PR) and citizenship
And yes — you can bring your spouse and children through the same visa!
👷♀️ Who Can Apply as a Skilled Worker?
The Australian government updates a Skilled Occupation List (SOL) each year. If your job is listed and you meet the criteria, you’re eligible to apply.
In-demand jobs include:
- Nurses, doctors, aged care workers
- Welders, electricians, plumbers, carpenters
- Teachers, early childhood educators
- Chefs, bakers, hospitality supervisors
- Software engineers, database admins, cybersecurity
- Civil engineers, construction managers
- Truck drivers (some states)
📌 Even if you’re unlicensed locally, your foreign qualifications may be accepted after assessment.
🧾 What Are the Main Visa Options?
| Visa Type | Description | State Sponsorship? | PR Path? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Subclass 189 | Independent skilled migration (points-based) | ❌ | ✅ Yes |
| Subclass 190 | State-nominated skilled visa | ✅ | ✅ Yes |
| Subclass 491 | Skilled Work Regional (temporary) | ✅ (regional areas) | ✅ (after 3 years) |
💡 The Subclass 190 is often the best bet for applicants with average English or lower points, thanks to state nominations that give a 5-point boost.
💵 Total Estimated Migration Cost: Just $4,600
Here’s a breakdown of how you can migrate affordably, assuming you’re doing much of the process independently or with minimal agent help.
| Item | Approx. Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Skills assessment (e.g., for trades, nursing, etc.) | $300–$1,000 |
| English Test (IELTS/PTE) | $200–$250 |
| Expression of Interest (EOI) submission | FREE |
| Visa application (main applicant) | ~$2,800 |
| Medical exam + Police clearance | $350–$600 |
| Document translation (if needed) | $50–$100 |
| Total | ~$4,000–$4,600 |
✅ No need to pay an agent if you’re confident to apply directly via immi.homeaffairs.gov.au.
🗂️ Documents You’ll Need
- Valid passport
- Educational and professional certificates
- English language test results
- Work experience reference letters
- Skills assessment certificate
- Police clearance
- Medical results from an approved clinic
- Form 80 (character declaration)
📝 Important: Make sure your documents are consistent, translated (if required), and not expired.
📈 How the Points System Works (You Need 65+ Points)
Australia uses a points-based system to select skilled migrants.
| Criteria | Points |
|---|---|
| Age (25–32 yrs) | 30 |
| English level (Proficient) | 10 |
| Skilled employment (5+ years) | 10–15 |
| Education (Bachelor/Master) | 15–20 |
| State nomination (Subclass 190) | 5 |
| Partner skills (if applicable) | 5–10 |
👉 You can use a Points Calculator to see if you qualify.
⏱️ Processing Time (2025 Estimates)
- Skill assessment: 1–3 months
- EOI selection + invitation: 1–6 months
- Visa processing: 3–9 months (depending on occupation and demand)
✅ Total timeline: around 6–12 months from start to finish — sometimes faster if you’re in a critical occupation.
👨👩👧 Can You Bring Your Family?
Absolutely.
Your partner and children can be included in your application, and they’ll get:
- Work and study rights
- Access to public healthcare
- PR status once granted
You’ll just need to pay the additional visa fees (~$1,400 for a partner, ~$700 for each child) and ensure your income can support your family.
📣 Real-Life Example: Migration on a Budget
“I applied as a welder from the Philippines using Subclass 190. My total cost came to around $4,500 including my skills test, visa, and travel. I did everything myself with free YouTube tutorials and the government website. I arrived in Perth in 10 months and now earn $3,800/month.”
— Joel R., Skilled Migrant in WA
✅ Final Steps: Ready to Start?
Here’s how to begin:
- Check if your job is on the Skilled List
- Take an English test (IELTS or PTE)
- Submit your documents for skills assessment
- Calculate your points and submit an EOI
- Get nominated (if applicable) and receive an invitation
- Apply for your visa
- Take your medicals and wait for a decision
Once approved, book your flight — and step into your new life in Australia.
Final Thoughts
Migrating to Australia doesn’t have to cost a fortune.
With smart planning, you can start the skilled worker process in 2025 with around $4,600 total—no shortcuts, no agents required.
If you’ve got the right skills, determination, and patience, Australia can be your new home. The opportunities are real. And they’re waiting.
