How to Migrate to Australia from Vietnam: Complete 2026 Guide

Student Pathway (Most Common) - Subclass 500 student visa → study in Australia → Post-Study Work visa (485) → apply for PR - Popular courses: IT, accounting, nursing, engineering, hospitality - Australia is the 3rd most popular study destination for Vietnamese students

Skilled Migration - Subclass 189/190 for IT professionals, engineers, accountants, nurses - Subclass 491 for regional areas (lower points threshold)

Employer Sponsored - Subclass 482 — Temporary Skill Shortage visa - Common in hospitality, healthcare, trades, and IT

Family - Partner visa (820/801) - Parent visa (143/103)

For most Vietnamese applicants, English is the biggest hurdle. Tips to maximise your score:

• - PTE Academic — Many Vietnamese students find PTE easier than IELTS due to the computer-based format
• - Start preparation 6-12 months early — Consistent daily practice matters more than cramming
• - Aim for superior English (IELTS 8+/PTE 79+) — The 20 points difference between competent (6.0) and superior (8.0) can determine whether you get an invitation
• - Consider an English preparation course in Vietnam before applying

Minimum requirements: IELTS 6.0 each band for skilled visas, IELTS 5.5 overall for student visas.

Established Vietnamese communities exist in every major city:

• - Sydney — Cabramatta, Bankstown, Marrickville (largest Vietnamese community)
• - Melbourne — Footscray, Springvale, Richmond
• - Brisbane — Inala, Darra
• - Perth — Westminster, Mirrabooka
• - Adelaide — Woodville, Kilkenny

These communities offer familiar food, cultural events, temples, and support networks to help you settle in.

Approximate costs:

• - English test: AUD $350-400
• - Skills assessment: AUD $500-1,200
• - Visa application: AUD $4,640 (subclass 189)
• - Migration agent: AUD $2,500-6,000
• - Health exam (approved panel physician in Vietnam): AUD $250-400
• - Police clearance (Judicial Record from Vietnamese authorities): ~$20-50
• - Document translation (NAATI): AUD $500-1,500

Timeline: Typically 12-24 months from start to visa grant for skilled migration.

Visit our dedicated Vietnam migration page for links to agents who speak your language, relevant visa types, and community resources.

You can also use our Cost Estimator to get a personalised cost breakdown, or our Points Calculator to check your skilled migration score.