Key Points
- Two new permanent residence visa steams opened for Hong Kong and British National Overseas passport holders beginning in March 2022
Overview
On November 1, 2021, the government of Australia announced two new permanent residence visa streams for Hong Kong and British National Overseas (BNO) passport holders. These pathways will open on March 5. 2022, and will create new permanent residence pathways for graduates and skilled workers who have been in Australia on extended visas.
What’s Changed?
Two new streams will be opened for Hong Kong and BNO passport holders to apply for permanent residence in Australia.
Subclass 191 – the Hong Kong (regional) stream:
- For primary visa holders who have continuously lived, worked, and studied exclusively in a designated regional area of Australia for at least three years and who held a qualifying visa throughout the duration of the three years.
Subclass 189 – the Hong Kong stream:
- For primary visa holders who typically reside in Australia for at least four years and hold a qualifying visa throughout the four years.
Looking Ahead
These new visa streams will open for applicants on March 5, 2022. Continue to check the government of Australia’s website for additional information and updates.
Source: Department of Home Affairs
