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Move to Australia from Iran

Last updated: 24 May 2026

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Why Iranians move to Australia

Iran is a significant source of both skilled migration and humanitarian intake for Australia. Iranian professionals are well-represented in engineering, medicine, IT, and academia. Australia also receives Iranians through its humanitarian and protection visa programs.

Popular visa pathways

  • Subclass 189/190 (Skilled Migration): Iranian engineers, doctors, IT professionals, and academics apply through the points-tested pathway. Iran produces strong STEM graduates.
  • Subclass 200/201/202 (Humanitarian/Refugee): Australia has resettled Iranians through its humanitarian program.
  • Subclass 500 (Student): Iranian students are a growing group at Australian universities, particularly in engineering, IT, and medical sciences.
  • Subclass 858 (Global Talent): Iranian researchers and academics in target sectors.

Iranian community in Australia

Sydney and Melbourne have large Iranian communities. Sydney's North Shore and western suburbs, and Melbourne's eastern and south-eastern suburbs have significant Iranian populations. Persian restaurants, supermarkets, and cultural organisations are well-established.

Practical tips

  • Iranian engineering degrees from top universities (Sharif, Tehran, Amirkabir) are well-regarded internationally. Engineers Australia assesses through the CDR pathway.
  • English proficiency is important. Many Iranians score well on IELTS, but aim for the highest band you can to maximise points.
  • The Iranian community in Australia is large and well-connected. Professional networks, cultural associations, and social media groups can help with career advice and settling in.

Visa options for Iran citizens

Subclass 482
Skills in Demand Visa
Subclass 189
Skilled Independent Visa
Subclass 190
Skilled Nominated Visa
Subclass 491
Skilled Work Regional Visa
Subclass 500
Student Visa
Subclass 186
Employer Nomination Scheme
Subclass 417
Working Holiday Visa
Subclass 485
Temporary Graduate Visa
Subclass 188
Business Innovation and Investment Visa
Subclass 858
Global Talent Visa
Subclass 600
Visitor Visa
Subclass 309
Partner Visa (Offshore)
Subclass 820
Partner Visa (Onshore)
Subclass 143
Contributory Parent Visa
Subclass 407
Training Visa
Subclass 462
Work and Holiday Visa
Subclass 887
Skilled Regional Visa
Subclass 191
Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional)
Subclass 494
Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional
Subclass 870
Sponsored Parent (Temporary)

FAQ: Moving from Iran

Are Iranian engineering degrees recognised?

Yes. Iranian engineering degrees from recognised universities are assessed through Engineers Australia via the CDR pathway. Degrees from Sharif University of Technology, University of Tehran, and Amirkabir University are well-regarded.

Is there a large Iranian community in Australia?

Yes. Sydney and Melbourne both have significant Iranian communities with Persian restaurants, supermarkets, cultural organisations, and professional networks.

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Important: Australian.com provides general information only and does not constitute migration advice. Only a registered migration agent (MARA) or Australian legal practitioner can provide immigration advice. Information is current as of the date published but immigration law changes frequently. Verify all details with the Department of Home Affairs.