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Move to Australia from Saudi Arabia

Last updated: 24 May 2026

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Why Saudis move to Australia

Saudi Arabia has a long tradition of sending students to Australia through government scholarship programs. Beyond education, Saudi professionals in healthcare, engineering, and business also consider Australia for career opportunities.

Popular visa pathways

  • Subclass 500 (Student): Saudi Arabia is a significant source of international students, many funded by the Saudi Arabian Cultural Mission (SACM) or King Abdullah Scholarship Program.
  • Subclass 189/190 (Skilled Migration): Saudi professionals in healthcare and engineering.
  • Subclass 188 (Business Innovation): Saudi investors exploring Australian business opportunities.

Practical considerations

  • Government-sponsored students receive generous funding that covers tuition, living expenses, and health insurance. Check eligibility with SACM.
  • Saudi qualifications in medicine and engineering are generally well-regarded but require assessment through the relevant Australian authority.
  • Australia has a small but established Saudi community, particularly around universities in Sydney, Melbourne, and Adelaide.

Visa options for Saudi Arabia 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 Saudi Arabia

Are Saudi government scholarships still available for Australia?

Scholarship programs vary by year. Check with the Saudi Arabian Cultural Mission (SACM) for current availability and eligible fields of study.

Can my family join me as a student?

Yes. Student visa holders can bring their spouse and dependent children. Partners of postgraduate students get full work rights.

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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.