If you’re aged 45 years or older and dreaming of moving to Australia, you might have come across age limits that apply to certain skilled visa categories – particularly those that lead to permanent residency. While age can be a hurdle in some skilled migration pathways, it doesn’t necessarily mean your journey ends there.
Australia has several visa streams and exemptions that still allow skilled professionals over 45 to work and live in Australia, depending on your circumstances.
Why is there a 45 years of age limit in Australia?
Australia’s migration program often imposes a 45-year age limit on certain visas, particularly for those seeking permanent residency through standard skilled pathways.
The restriction was introduced in 2017, reducing the previous age limit of 50, as part of a boarder reform to the skilled migration program.
However, the age restriction isn’t absolute—there are a number of exceptions and alternate routes that may still allow you to secure permanent residency beyond this age threshold.
Skilled Work Visas with Exemptions
Designated Area Migration Agreement (DAMA):
A DAMA is a formal agreement between the Australian Government and certain regional areas facing skill shortages. It allows for more flexibility, including age exemptions, for eligible applicants in select occupations.
If your occupation is on a DAMA occupation list, and you have an employer based in a participating region willing to sponsor you, you may be able to apply for a subclass 482 (Skills in Demand) or subclass 494 (Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional) visa. These visas can provide a pathway to permanent residence if you’re going to be 45 or older at time of application for permanent residence.
Please note: DAMA is not a self-nominated visa—your employer must apply for endorsement and agree to sponsor you.
Academic or Research Positions:
Professionals in Academic or Research Positions roles within Australian universities or research agencies are exempt from the age limit however you need to satisfy certain criteria.
Earning High Income Threshold:
If you’ve worked in Australia for at least two years on a subclass 482 visa and earned above the Fair Work High Income Threshold (currently $175,000 per year), you may qualify for an age exemption when applying for permanent residence.
Note: This income threshold is reviewed and typically increased each year on 1 July. The exact threshold for 2025-2026 is not yet officially set.
Key Tips for Migrants Over 45
- Work with a Registered Migration Agent. Skilled visa pathways and exemptions can be complex and unforgiving—working with a qualified agent ensures you’re exploring every possible option correctly
- Focus on In-Demand Skills: Your experience may be highly valued in key industries such as healthcare, aged care, construction, education, and other sectors facing shortages—especially in regional areas. Click her to find current jobs in demand and their location
- Be Open to Regional Opportunities: Living and working in regional Australia may give you access to more flexible visa options such as the employer sponsored subclass 494 visa
- If your partner is Permanent Resident or an Australian Citizen, investigate if this could be an opportunity for you as there is no age restriction for partner visas
What Are Your Next Steps?
If you have any questions at all about your eligibility for permanent skilled migration to Australia, please get in touch with us at Migration Downunder.
At Migration Downunder, we’ll assess your individual situation and help you develop a clear, tailored migration strategy. With the right guidance, age doesn’t have to be a barrier to living and working in Australia.