Moving to Australia Checklist (2026 Edition)
Welcome to your new life. Moving to Australia is exciting, but in 2026, the landscape has changed. The rental market is tight, and preparation is key.
Here is your essential, no-nonsense checklist for a smooth arrival.
Quick Guide: Easiest Ways to Move (Ranked)
We ranked the migration pathways from Easiest to Hardest for 2026:
1. Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 417/462) - EASIEST
- Why: Fast approval (often <2 weeks), low cost, minimum document requirements.
- Best For: Under 30s (or 35 for some countries) wanting to travel and work casually.
2. Student Visa (Subclass 500) - MODERATE
- Why: Clear process, but requires significant money for tuition and strict "Genuine Student" checks.
- Best For: Those wanting to upskill or eventually migrate through skilled pathways.
3. Skilled Migration (189/190/491) - HARD
- Why: Zero employer sponsorship needed, BUT requires a high points score (age, English, skills). Highly competitive.
- Best For: Experienced professionals in high-demand fields (Healthcare, IT, Teaching).
4. Partner Visa (820/309) - HARDEST
- Why: Requires extensive evidence of relationship, high fees (~$9k), and extremely long processing times (1-2 years).
- Best For: Committed couples with an Australian partner.
Phase 1: Pre-Departure (The "Paperwork")
Before you board the plane, ensure these are ready:
- Visa Grant Notice: Keep a digital copy on your phone and a printed copy in your hand luggage.
- Digital Storage: Upload copies of your Passport, Birth Certificate, and Degree/Transcripts to Google Drive or Dropbox.
- Medical & Dental: Australian dental care is expensive. Get a full check-up done in your home country before you leave.
- Unlock Your Phone: Ensure your mobile phone is not locked to your home carrier so you can use an Australian SIM.
Phase 2: The Housing Reality (2026 Warning)
This is the most important part of this guide. The rental market in major cities (Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, Brisbane) is extremely competitive, with vacancy rates often below 1%.
Accommodation Options: Ranked Easiest to Hardest
- Hostels (Backpackers): EASIEST. Instant online booking. Good for the first week.
- Airbnb / Serviced Apartments: EASY. Flexible but expensive. no references needed.
- Share House (Flatmates): MODERATE. Cheaper, but you usually need to meet the housemates for an "interview" first.
- Private Rental (Real Estate): HARDEST. Requires 100 points of ID, proof of income, rental history, and references. Vacancy is <1%.
Our Advice: Book at least 4 weeks of temporary accommodation (Option 1 or 2) before attempting to find a private rental.
Phase 3: First 7 Days (The Essentials)
Do these in this exact order:
1. Mobile SIM (Day 1)
Get a prepaid SIM card at the airport or a supermarket (Woolworths/Coles).
- Top Networks: Telstra (Best coverage), Optus, Vodafone.
- Budget Options: Boost (Uses Telstra network), Amaysim (Uses Optus).
2. Tax File Number (TFN) (Day 1-2)
You need this to work and pay tax.
- Cost: FREE.
- How: Apply online via the ATO Website. You must be in Australia to apply.
- Wait: It takes up to 28 days by post. Keep your receipt number safely.
3. Bank Account (Day 2-3)
If you opened an account online before arriving, go to a branch to "Activate" it. You will need your Passport and Welcome Letter.
- Big 4 Banks: CommBank, Westpac, ANZ, NAB.
4. Medicare (Day 3-7)
If you are from a country with a Reciprocal Health Care Agreement (e.g., UK, NZ) or represent a permanent resident:
- Apply: Visit a Medicare Service Centre with your Passport and Visa Grant.
- Note: If you are on a standard Visitor Visa (600) or Student Visa, you usually need private insurance (OVHC/OSHC) instead.
Phase 4: Job Hunting
- Resume: Convert your CV to the "Australian Style". No photo. No age, religion, or marital status. Focus on skills and achievements.
- Sites: Seek.com.au, LinkedIn, Jora.
