Australia has long been a preferred destination for skilled professionals worldwide, and now, Pakistani migrants have even more reasons to consider making the move. Through its newly launched Regional Settlement Program, the Australian government is offering specialized immigration pathways for Pakistani nationals—especially those willing to settle in regional and rural parts of the country.
This initiative builds on Australia’s existing regional visa framework, such as the Skilled Work Regional (subclass 491) visa and the Employer-Sponsored Regional (subclass 494) visa, but goes a step further by introducing tailored support and faster residency options for Pakistani professionals.
Related: Department of Home Affairs – Regional Migration
Regional areas in Australia face ongoing labor shortages in crucial sectors like healthcare, education, and agriculture. The government’s goal is to bridge these gaps by attracting skilled professionals willing to move outside the big cities.
Pakistani professionals, particularly those in nursing, teaching, agricultural sciences, and veterinary fields, are in high demand. What sets this program apart is its clear preference for Pakistani applicants, which is evident in reduced waiting periods for permanent residency and a structured support system designed to ease the transition.
Here’s what makes this opportunity stand out for Pakistani migrants:
Unlike traditional migration routes, this program fast-tracks the transition from temporary to permanent residency. Applicants can become eligible for a Permanent Residency (PR) visa after just 3 years of regional work and residence, instead of the usual 5.
For many Pakistani applicants, the competitive points-based immigration system is a hurdle. But under this scheme, the minimum required points are relaxed for those applying from Pakistan in designated skill areas.
The program gives priority to candidates in:
You can find the updated Skilled Occupation List here:
Australian Immigration – Regional Occupation List
Migrating to a new country is never just about the job—it’s about starting a whole new life. That’s why the Australian government has embedded community integration components into this program. For Pakistani families, this means:
One of the best parts? You’ll find many active community groups like the Pakistan Association of Australia already established in regional cities like Adelaide, Hobart, and Cairns.
To further sweeten the deal, the Australian government is offering incentives for regional settlement:
These financial boosts are designed to reduce the cost of migration and help Pakistani migrants settle with more confidence and security.
Many Pakistani migrants already living in regional Australia report high satisfaction rates, citing a better quality of life, less competition, and stronger community connections compared to major cities like Sydney or Melbourne.
For instance, Dr. Mariam Zahra, a GP from Lahore who settled in Tasmania under the regional program, shared,
“The support system here is amazing. We were connected with a local Pakistani family before arrival, and they helped us every step of the way—from school enrollment for our kids to understanding the healthcare system.”
You can also consult migration experts at Migration Council Australia or speak to certified agents for personalized guidance.
Australia’s Regional Settlement Program is more than just a migration scheme—it’s a well-thought-out plan to build thriving multicultural communities while filling skill gaps. For Pakistanis looking for a brighter future, this is a chance to settle permanently in a country that values their skills and culture.
Whether you’re a seasoned healthcare worker or an agricultural expert, this pathway could be your gateway to a rewarding life in regional Australia.
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