Pathway to Permanent Residency (PR) for Childcare Workers in 2025

With the increasing demand for Childcare Workers, the occupation has been added to the Core Skills Occupations List (CSOL). This opens up exciting new pathways to Permanent Residency (PR) in Australia for qualified Childcare Workers.

482 Visa (Skills in Demand Visa): Childcare Workers can now apply for this visa in any city in Australia.

186 Visa (Permanent Employer Sponsored Visa – Direct Entry Stream): Eligible after completing 3 years of full-time work experience.

Essential Requirements for 482 and 186 Visas:

• Must have an approved employer to nominate them.
• Must earn a minimum salary of $73,150 + Superannuation.

What if I can’t meet the $73,150 salary threshold?
You may still qualify for the 407 Training Visa, which allows you to gain experience and develop your skills in childcare.

If you don’t yet have the required qualifications, consider pursuing an Australian childcare course. Below are your visa options and pathways to PR:

The 482 visa allows skilled workers to be sponsored by employers for temporary full-time work. It’s a popular choice for companies to bring in skilled childcare professionals.

Costs (Paid to the Department of Immigration and Border Protection – DIBP):

• Business Sponsorship Fee: AUD 420
• Nomination Fee: AUD 330
• Skilling Australia Levy (2 years): AUD 1,200–1,800/year (based on company turnover).
• Visa Application Fee: AUD 3,115/person.

Steps to Apply for the 482 Visa:

Step 1: Business Sponsorship
The employer must become an approved sponsor by demonstrating:

• Legal business operations.
• Financial capability.
• Commitment to staff training.

Step 2: Nomination
The employer nominates the candidate, proving:

• The role is on the CSOL.
• A genuine need exists for hiring a foreign worker.
• Salary meets the $73,150 threshold.

Step 3: Visa Application
The applicant must show:

• Relevant skills, qualifications, and experience.
• English language proficiency (exceptions apply to UK, USA, Ireland, Canada citizens).
• Good health and character.
• Health insurance coverage.

Duration: Up to 4 years.

This visa provides PR through employer sponsorship. It offers the benefits of Medicare access, family inclusion, and potential Australian citizenship.

Eligibility:

• 3 years of relevant full-time work experience.
• Positive skills assessment from ACECQA in childcare.
• Employer nomination for a permanent full-time role.
• Minimum salary of $73,150 + Superannuation.
• English proficiency (IELTS 6.0 overall or equivalent).

Costs:

• Visa Application Fee: AUD 4,770 (main applicant).
• Employer Costs: SAF levy (AUD 3,000–5,000 based on turnover) and nomination fee (AUD 540).

The 407 Training Visa allows childcare professionals to gain structured, workplace-based training for up to 2 years.

Key Features:

• No $73,150 salary requirement.
• Opportunity to enhance skills and gain experience.

Costs:

• Visa Fee: AUD 415.
• Sponsor Costs: AUD 420 (Temporary Activity Sponsorship) + AUD 170 (Nomination Fee).

Requirements:

• Childcare qualifications.
• Sponsorship by an approved employer or organisation.
• Proof of training or upskilling in childcare.

Studying in Australia can be the first step towards building a childcare career and achieving PR.

Benefits:

• Work up to 48 hours/fortnight during term and unlimited hours during breaks.
• Gain an internationally recognised qualification in childcare.

Costs:

• Visa Fee: AUD 1,600 (main applicant).

Steps to Obtain a Student Visa:

1. Enrol in a CRICOS-approved childcare course (e.g., Certificate III or Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care).
2. Provide necessary documents: passport, academic certificates, proof of funds, and OSHC insurance.
3. Obtain a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE).

Duration: 2–3 years (depending on course length).

By following these pathways, you can work towards Permanent Residency while building a rewarding career in Australia. The best pathway depends on your circumstances, so consult with a registered migration agent today by clicking here.