Some visa applications require you to show you have Capable English. You can do so if you either: achieve the required score in IELTS or other approved English language test. You must have undertaken the test, no more than 24 months before you are invited to apply for the visa or if you are from an English-speaking country.

Depending on your chosen stream, you may be required to submit an expression of interest and wait for an invitation before you can proceed with your application. Go to the Department of Home Affairs website to find out more details about your application process.

An Australian permanent resident (permanent resident) is the name given to a non-citizen who is the holder of a permanent visa. A permanent resident can live, work and study without restriction in Australia.

A permanent resident has most of the rights and entitlements of a citizen, however there are differences:

• A citizen has an automatic right of entry to Australia, however if a permanent resident chooses to travel internationally, they need to ensure they have a permanent visa with a valid travel authority if they wish to return to Australia as a permanent resident.
• A citizen can vote in Australian Government elections. In most cases permanent residents cannot, however if a permanent resident was enrolled to vote (as a British subject) prior to 1984, they may remain eligible to vote.

Eligibility for Australian government services and benefits, for both citizens and non-citizens, is the responsibility of the government agency with policy responsibility for the service or benefit.