If you’ve been thinking about moving to Australia but recently crossed your mid-40s, it’s natural for a wave of doubt to creep in.
You start reading about visa options, and suddenly, every article seems to say the same thing: most skilled visas are only for those under 45. And just like that, the excitement turns into hesitation.
You might even find yourself wondering, Did I miss my chance? Is getting an Australian PR after 45 years even possible?
The truth is, there are still genuine, achievable pathways that can help you build a new life in Australia. In fact, several permanent visa options for people over 45 in Australia are designed for people with experience, financial stability, or specialized knowledge that can contribute to the country’s economy.
So yes, PR after 45 in Australia might not follow the same route as someone younger, but it’s still very much within reach. All it takes is the right guidance, a bit of strategy, and a belief that it’s never too late to start a new chapter.
Key Insight:
- While Australia’s skilled migration system favors those under 45, employer sponsorship, DAMA, Global Talent, and business or partner visas keep the dream alive.
- Medical professionals, researchers, regional workers, and high-income earners can qualify for exemptions and secure permanent residency after 45.
- Success lies in choosing the right visa and showcasing skills, experience, or investment capacity under Australia’s migration laws.
What Is Australia PR After 45 Years?
When we talk about Australia PR after 45 years, we’re referring to the pathways available for individuals above the age of 45 who want to live and work in Australia permanently.
While most of Australia’s skilled migration programs have an age limit of 45, that doesn’t mean there are no options left. In fact, several alternative routes can still lead to permanent residency in Australia after 45, depending on your experience, financial background, and personal circumstances.
Let’s find out about it.
Visa Pathways to Australia PR After 45 Years
While the traditional skilled visa routes may close after a certain age, several other options remain open for individuals seeking an Australia PR after 45 years. These pathways focus less on age and more on experience, investment, and contribution, meaning your expertise still holds immense value.
Let’s explore the main pathways to PR in Australia for over 45:
National Innovation Visa (Subclass 858)
The National Innovation Visa is designed for talented and highly skilled individuals over the age of 45 who have made significant contributions in innovation, technology, research, or entrepreneurship. It recognises mature innovators and leaders who can contribute to Australia’s future industries, create jobs, and support advancements in science, business, and technology.
- There is no strict age limit, but applicants over 55 must show they would be of exceptional benefit to Australia.
- This program offers one of the fastest pathways to Australian PR for over 45, especially for professionals with significant global impact or specialized expertise.
Partner and Parent Visas
If you have close family ties in Australia, this route may be more straightforward.
- Partner Visa (Subclass 820/801) – For individuals married to or in a de facto relationship with an Australian citizen or permanent resident.
- Parent Visa (Subclass 103 / 143) – Designed for parents of Australian citizens or PR holders.
These visas don’t have an age cap, making them one of the most accessible Australia PR options for those over 45.
Regional Pathways (DAMA & Skilled Regional Visas)
Under the Designated Area Migration Agreement (DAMA), certain regional areas in Australia can sponsor skilled workers under more flexible rules, including relaxed age limits.
- Employers in DAMA regions can nominate skilled migrants under occupations specific to local needs.
- In some cases, age exemptions are available, making it a promising route for Australia's skilled migration over 45.
- After a few years, this pathway can lead to permanent migration in Australia through a regional employer-sponsored stream, provided the applicant has been in the country for at least 45 days.
It is recommended to connect with a professional who understands your ap; application and helps you choose the right Australia visa pr after 45 path and curate a strategy for the same. And, if you are looking for the one, connect with Visafast Migration Consultancy, a registered migration agent near Adelaide.
Protection Visa
The Protection Visa (Subclass 866) is one of the few Australia PR options for over 45s that does not have any age restrictions. It’s designed for individuals who are already in Australia and cannot return to their home country because they fear persecution, serious harm, or threats to their safety due to their race, religion, political opinion, nationality, or social group.
After holding this visa for a period, individuals may even become eligible for Australian citizenship. The Protection Visa is available to over 45 applicants, regardless of their skills, investment, or sponsorship; it’s purely humanitarian.
If you believe you meet the criteria for this visa or need clarity about your eligibility, it’s important to seek advice from a registered migration agent.
Aged Dependent Relative Visa (Subclass 114 / 838)
The Aged Dependent Relative Visa offers another valuable pathway to permanent residency in Australia after the age of 45, particularly for older individuals who are financially dependent on an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.
There are two subclasses under this category:
- Subclass 114 (Offshore) – For applicants living outside Australia.
- Subclass 838 (Onshore) – For applicants currently in Australia.
To qualify, the applicant must:
- Be aged (retirement age as per Australian standards)
- Be dependent on their Australian relative for financial support
- Have no partner and meet health and character requirements
This visa offers a secure and compassionate option for emigrating to Australia over 45, especially for those who rely on family members already settled in the country. Once granted, it allows permanent residence and access to health and social benefits.
How Much Does it Cost to Apply for a Visa for Over 45 in Australia?
National Innovation Visa (Subclass 858)
- Visa Application Fee: AUD 4,240 for the main applicant
- Additional Costs: AUD 2,120 per dependent, plus possible relocation or professional assessment fees
- Notes: Age is flexible; applicants over 55 need to show exceptional benefit to Australia.
Partner & Parent Visas
- Partner Visa (Subclass 820/801): AUD 7,850 main applicant
- Parent Visa (Subclass 143): AUD 113,755 main applicant
- Notes: No age limit; suitable for Australian permanent residency after 45 if you have family in Australia.
Protection Visa (Subclass 866)
Visa Application Fee: AUD 45 (main applicant)
Additional Costs:
- No additional charge for dependents included in the same application.
- Health checks, biometrics, and police clearances may apply depending on individual circumstances.
Notes: The Protection Visa is one of the most affordable permanent visa options, as it is designed for humanitarian purposes. However, applicants must meet strict eligibility criteria and provide strong supporting evidence of the need for protection.
Aged Dependent Relative Visa (Subclass 114 / 838)
Visa Application Fee: AUD 4,990 (main applicant)
Additional Costs:
- AUD 2,495 per dependent (if included in the same application)
- Extra expenses for medical examinations, biometrics, and police certificates
Notes: The Aged Dependent Relative Visa often incurs additional assurance of support and migration agent fees, depending on the applicant’s location and the complexity of the case. Despite the cost, it provides a secure pathway to permanent residency in Australia after 45, especially for those financially dependent on Australian relatives.
Additional Costs to Consider
- Health Checks & Police Clearances: AUD 300–700 per person
- Migration Agent Fees (Optional): AUD 2,000–5,000+ depending on complexity
- Skills Assessments / Business Plans / Legal Fees for investment/business pathways
The Bottom Line
So, with this blog, we hope it's pretty clear that obtaining Australian permanent residency after turning 45 is absolutely possible; it just requires the right pathway, planning, and strategy.
So, if you’ve been asking, Can a person over 45 get Australia PR? the answer is yes. The key is finding the path that best matches your skills, achievements, and long-term goals.
And, if you are looking for a professional to help you choose the right path and curate a strategy for the same, then connect with us at Visafast Migration Consultancy, and our team will assist you further.
See you on the other side.
Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)
What are the age exemptions for an Australian PR after 45?
Certain visas, like Subclass 186 (Employer Nomination Scheme), allow age exemptions for high-income earners, academics, regional medical practitioners, or long-term 457/482 visa holders, making PR after 45 in Australia possible.
What is the DAMA (Designated Area Migration Agreement) Australia?
DAMA lets regional employers sponsor skilled workers for hard-to-fill jobs, offering relaxed age limits and pathways to permanent migration to Australia after 45.
How does the transition from a temporary visa to a permanent visa work when over 45?
Temporary visa holders (e.g., Subclass 482) can move to PR after 45 via employer sponsorship under Subclass 186 if they meet age exemptions or regional/DAMA requirements.
What are the challenges of PR after age 45?
Age limits restrict skilled visas, reducing points eligibility. Alternatives often require employer sponsorship, business investment, or exceptional skills.
Does DAMA help over-45 visa applicants in Australia?
Yes. DAMA allows regional sponsorship and provides pathways to PR for over 45, even if standard skilled migration isn’t available.
Disclaimer: This article is for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Immigration laws and policies may change over time, so we strongly recommend consulting a registered migration agent or legal professional before making any visa application.
