Pathways to PR: Early Childhood (Pre-primary School) Teacher- 241111
Early Childhood (Pre-Primary School) Teacher – ANZSCO 241111
Early Childhood (Pre-Primary School) Teachers play a vital role in children’s early development, helping students build foundational skills in language, literacy, numeracy, motor skills, and social interaction. Due to ongoing demand across Australia, this occupation offers multiple pathways to Permanent Residency (PR).
Note: Registration or licensing is required to work in this occupation in Australia.
Occupation Overview
Role Description
Early Childhood Teachers plan, organise and deliver educational programs for pre-primary school students, supporting their physical, emotional, social and cognitive development in both indoor and outdoor learning environments.
Typical Duties Include:
Planning and delivering structured learning activities
Supporting language development through storytelling, music and role play
Encouraging social skills, confidence and independence
Monitoring student development, health and wellbeing
Identifying learning or developmental concerns
Communicating student progress with parents and carers
Attending staff meetings, parent interviews and community programs
Supervising student teachers on placement
Qualification Requirements
A Bachelor degree or higher qualification in Early Childhood Teaching
In some cases, relevant experience or on-the-job training may be required in addition to formal qualifications
Main Visa Pathways
Employer Sponsored Visas
Subclass 482 – Skills in Demand Visa
A temporary visa allowing Australian employers to address skills shortages.
Work Experience: Minimum 1 year (within the last 5 years)
Skills Assessment: Not required for this occupation
Visa Length: Up to 4 years
PR Pathway: May transition to the Subclass 186 after 2 years with the sponsoring employer
Subclass 186 – Employer Nomination Scheme (Direct Entry)
A permanent visa for skilled workers nominated by an Australian employer.
Work Experience: Minimum 3 years relevant experience
Skills Assessment: Mandatory (unless an exemption applies)
Outcome: Permanent Residency upon approval
Subclass 494 – Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional)
For skilled workers sponsored by employers in designated regional areas.
Work Experience: Minimum 3 years relevant experience
Skills Assessment: Mandatory
Visa Length: Up to 5 years
PR Pathway: Eligible to apply for the Subclass 191 after 3 years in regional Australia
Skilled Migration (Points-Tested Visas)
These visas require a positive skills assessment and submission of an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect. Invitations are competitive and depend on points scores, state requirements and invitation rounds.
Points Test Overview
Minimum points: 65
Points are awarded for age, English, qualifications, work experience and partner skills
Higher points increase your chance of invitation
Subclass 189 – Skilled Independent Visa
No employer or state sponsorship required
Live and work anywhere in Australia
Outcome: Permanent Residency
Subclass 190 – Skilled Nominated Visa
Requires nomination by an Australian state or territory
Commitment to live and work in the nominating state (usually 2 years)
Outcome: Permanent Residency
Subclass 491 – Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa
State nomination or eligible family sponsorship
Must live and work in a designated regional area
PR Pathway: Eligible for the Subclass 191 after 3 years (subject to income requirements)
Other Visa Options (Short-Term)
Subclass 407 – Training Visa
Subclass 485 – Graduate Visa (for eligible international graduates)
These visas may support short-term work or experience while building toward PR pathways.
Skills Assessment Authority – ACECQA
A positive skills assessment from ACECQA is required for skilled migration and some employer-sponsored visas.
Qualification Assessment
Must hold an ACECQA-approved Early Childhood Teaching qualification (or equivalent)
If not approved, ACECQA will conduct a dual assessment under the National Quality Framework (NQF)
Additional documentation may be requested
English Language Requirements
English proficiency can be demonstrated through one of the following:
At least 1 year of full-time tertiary study completed in Australia, NZ, Ireland, UK, USA or Canada
ORIELTS Academic:
Reading & Writing: 7.0
Speaking & Listening: 8.0
OR
ISLPR (Teacher-focused assessment): Level 4 in all four skills
ORIn limited cases, a professional employer reference from an approved English-speaking country
Final Notes
This guide provides a high-level overview of PR pathways for Early Childhood (Pre-Primary School) Teachers. Australian migration law is complex, and visa criteria can change frequently. Eligibility depends on many factors including age, qualifications, experience, English level and location.
For tailored advice and a clear pathway forward, we strongly recommend booking a consultation for a full assessment of your circumstances.
