Skilled Migration Visa (Subclass 189, 190, 491) – For Professionals in Demand

What is the Skilled Migration Visa?

The Skilled Migration Visa is designed for professionals with skills that Australia needs. It enables eligible individuals to migrate and contribute to the country’s workforce. These visas are points-tested and require applicants to meet specific criteria, including age, English proficiency, work experience, and occupation eligibility.

Benefits of a Skilled Migration Visa:

• Permanent residency for eligible applicants
• Work and live in Australia with full rights
• Access to Medicare, Australia’s public healthcare system
• Opportunity to apply for Australian citizenship
• Sponsorship options for family members
• Pathways to professional growth and stability

Visa Options Under Skilled Migration

Subclass 189 – Skilled Independent Visa

This is a permanent visa for skilled workers who do not require a nomination from an Australian state or employer.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Must have an occupation listed on the Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL)
• Must receive an invitation to apply after submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect
• Score at least 65 points on the General Skilled Migration (GSM) points test
• Be under 45 years old at the time of invitation
• Meet the required English language proficiency level

Application Process:

1. Check if your occupation is on the MLTSSL
2. Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) via SkillSelect
3. Receive an invitation to apply from the Department of Home Affairs
4. Lodge your visa application within 60 days of receiving the invitation
5. Provide required documents, including skills assessment, English test results, and work experience proof
6. Wait for a decision (processing times vary based on application volume)

Subclass 190 – Skilled Nominated Visa

A permanent residency visa for skilled workers who are nominated by an Australian state or territory.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Must be nominated by a state or territory government
• Occupation must be on the state’s skilled occupation list
• Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) and be invited to apply
• Score at least 65 points on the points test (state nomination adds 5 points)
• Be under 45 years old
• Meet health and character requirements

Additional Benefits:

• Extra 5 points for state nomination
• Faster processing times due to state involvement
• Access to employment opportunities in high-demand sectors

Subclass 491 – Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa

A 5-year visa for skilled workers who are nominated by a regional state or sponsored by an eligible relative living in regional Australia. This visa provides a pathway to permanent residency (Subclass 191) after living and working in a designated regional area for 3 years.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Must be nominated by a state/territory or have a sponsor in regional Australia
• Must meet the occupation requirements on the Regional Occupation List
• Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) and score 65 points
• Be under 45 years old
• Commit to living and working in a regional area for at least 3 years

Benefits of the 491 Visa:

• Extra 15 points for regional nomination
• Pathway to PR after 3 years through the Subclass 191 visa
• Access to regional incentives, including priority processing and support

General Points System for Skilled Migration

The Points Test determines your eligibility for a skilled migration visa. The table below outlines the main scoring factors:

To be eligible, you must score at least 65 points, but higher scores increase your chances of receiving an invitation.

Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Skills Assessment – Get your qualifications and work experience assessed by an accredited skills assessment authority.
2. Expression of Interest (EOI) – Submit your profile via SkillSelect and wait for an invitation.
3. Nomination (if required) – Apply for state or regional sponsorship (for 190 and 491 visas).
4. Visa Application Submission – Apply online through the Department of Home Affairs website.
5. Medical and Character Checks – Complete health examinations and provide police clearances.
6. Wait for Visa Grant – The processing time varies from 6 to 18 months, depending on your visa category and application completeness.

Why Choose Australia for Skilled Migration?

• High Demand for Skilled Workers: Australia has a growing need for professionals in IT, healthcare, engineering, education, and trade sectors.
• Quality of Life: Enjoy world-class healthcare, education, and work-life balance.
• Career Growth: Access to excellent employment opportunities with competitive salaries.
• Pathway to Citizenship: Permanent residency leads to Australian citizenship after fulfilling residence requirements.

How We Can Help You

Navigating the Australian immigration system can be complex, but our team of migration experts can guide you through the entire process. Our services include:

• Eligibility Assessment
• EOI Submission & Strategy Planning
• State Nomination Applications
• Document Preparation & Visa Lodgement
• Post-Visa Settlement Support

📞 Contact us today for a free consultation and start your journey to Australia!