Skilled independent visa

Australia treasures and welcome skilled workers all around globe !

What: The Skilled Migration Program is designed to attract migrants who make a significant contribution to the Australian economy. Covering a wide range of positions, areas and regions. The main benefit of GSM visas is that visa holders are free to pursue employment without depending on a Sponsor.

 Why: The Skilled Migration Program is designed to fill positions where no Australian workers are available. Skilled migrants have very high participation rates in the workforce, helping to stimulate economic growth, which results in more jobs.

The Skilled stream also plays an important role in regional development through providing skills and labour which can’t be sourced locally, as well as encouraging investment and promoting local spending in regional areas.

 How: The first steps in applying for Skilled visas involve selecting the most suitable occupation for you, undertaking a Skills Assessment, sitting an English exam and gathering evidence of work experience and academic qualifications.

It must be important to point out that skilled visas can only be applied for with an invitation from the Department of Home Affairs. Via a system called Skill Select, candidates submit Expressions of Interest (EOI). Candidates are rated through a point-based system with points being awarded for factors such as age, English skills, work experience, qualifications and other reasons.

A minimum score of 65 points is necessary for an EOI to be considered. However, due to the limited number of visas (or invitations) available each year, a higher score is often required to secure an invitation to apply for a Skilled visa.

Candidates are given 60 days to lodge a visa application following the invitation.

 General Skilled Migration visas are:

(Subclass 189) Skilled independent visa –

The most sough after visa subclass, granting permanent residency immediately it also allows holders to full rights to live and work in Australia. A sought after and competitive visa, highest Points Score are required to receive an invitation. Not limited to one region or area, you can apply for invitation from within or outside of Australia.

(Subclass 190) Skilled Nominated visa –

A permanent visa requiring Nomination by an Australian State or Territory. In addition, you will need to meet each State or Territories own eligibility criteria to be invited. An example of eligibility criteria are living and working in the State or Territory you intend on applying to.

(Subclass 491) Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa –

A temporary 5-year visa with a path to permanent residency after three (3) years of holding the visa. Requiring nomination by an Australian State or Territory, or an eligible Australian relative. Visa holders are required to live and work in Regional Australia for the temporary visa and for two (2) years while holding the permanent visa.