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Teacher Visa Pathway – Move from the UK to Australia

Why Move to Australia as a Teacher?

Teachers are in high demand across Australia, particularly in primary, secondary, and special education sectors. With competitive salaries, strong job security, and clear pathways to Permanent Residency (PR), it is an excellent time for UK teachers to consider migration.

Key benefits include:

  • Strong demand for teachers in urban and regional areas
  • Competitive salaries ranging from AUD $75,000 – $110,000 per year
  • Permanent Residency (PR) pathways through skilled migration
  • Career opportunities in public and private schools, international schools, and regional education programs

Step-by-Step Process for UK Teachers

Step 1: Check Eligibility

To qualify for an Australian skilled visa as a teacher, you must:

  • Hold a Bachelor’s degree in Education or equivalent
  • Be a qualified and registered teacher in the UK
  • Have at least one year of teaching experience (preferred but not mandatory)
  • Score 65+ points in the Australian immigration points test
  • Pass the Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership (AITSL) skills assessment

Step 2: Skills Assessment with AITSL

Before applying for a skilled visa, UK teachers must have their qualifications assessed by the Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership (AITSL).

Skills Assessment Process:

  1. Provide proof of qualifications, including transcripts and degree certificates
  2. Submit evidence of teaching registration in the UK
  3. Demonstrate English language proficiency (IELTS 7.0+ or PTE equivalent)
  4. Receive a positive skills assessment outcome

Processing Time: 10-12 weeks
Assessment Fee: AUD $860

Step 3: Choose the Right Skilled Visa

UK teachers can apply for the following skilled visas:

Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)

  • Does not require state sponsorship
  • Grants permanent residency upon approval
  • Requires a minimum of 65 points

Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)

  • Requires nomination from an Australian state or territory
  • Provides an additional five points towards the visa application
  • Grants permanent residency upon approval

Skilled Work Regional Visa (Subclass 491)

  • Requires nomination from a regional area
  • Provides an additional fifteen points towards the visa application
  • Leads to permanent residency after three years of living and working in a regional area

Many Australian states actively sponsor teachers, including New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, and South Australia.

Step 4: Expression of Interest (EOI) in SkillSelect

After completing the skills assessment, candidates must submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through the SkillSelect system.

Factors influencing EOI selection include:

  • Immigration points score (age, experience, English proficiency, qualifications, and state nomination)
  • Demand for teachers in the selected state
  • Invitation rounds conducted by the Department of Home Affairs

Waiting Time for Invitation: 1-6 months

Step 5: Apply for Your Visa

Once an invitation to apply is received, the visa application must be submitted with:

  • Health and character documents (police clearance and medical examination)
  • Proof of qualifications and work experience
  • English language test results (if applicable)

Processing Time:

  • Subclass 189 & 190: 4-8 months
  • Subclass 491: 6-12 months

Visa Fees: AUD $4,640 (Main Applicant)

Salary & Job Market for Teachers in Australia

The average salary for a teacher in Australia varies depending on experience, location, and education level.

Salary Ranges:

  • Primary School Teachers: AUD $75,000 – $95,000
  • Secondary School Teachers: AUD $80,000 – $110,000
  • Special Education Teachers: AUD $85,000 – $115,000

Top Employers:

  • Public and private schools
  • International schools
  • Regional and remote teaching programs

The Australian Government projects continued demand for teachers, particularly in regional areas and specialized subjects such as STEM, special education, and early childhood education.

Success Stories

James R. from Manchester successfully migrated to Sydney as a secondary school teacher. With assistance in navigating the skills assessment and visa process, he secured a position at a top private school and obtained permanent residency within a year.

Those considering a similar move can benefit from expert guidance and structured visa application support.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to register with an Australian teaching authority?
Yes. Once in Australia, teachers must register with the appropriate state or territory teaching board.

Can I bring my family with me?
Yes. Spouses and dependent children can be included in the visa application for permanent residency.

What if I do not meet the 65-point requirement?
Applicants can improve their points score by obtaining state nomination (5 points for the 190 Visa), applying for a regional visa (15 points for the 491 Visa), or achieving a higher score on an English test.

How soon can I begin working after my visa is granted?
Teachers can begin work immediately upon arrival in Australia, provided registration with the relevant state teaching authority is complete.

Next Steps

  • Check Eligibility – Complete a free assessment to determine visa options
  • Book a Consultation – Get expert advice on visa pathways and requirements
  • Stay Informed – Subscribe for updates on skilled migration changes

For personalized guidance and to begin the process, contact our migration specialists today.