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Australian Skilled Migration Visa Program
Australia’s Skilled Migration Visa program allows qualified professionals to live and work in Australia on a long-term basis through a points-based immigration system. This program is designed for skilled workers whose occupations are in demand and who can contribute to Australia’s economy and regional development.
The main skilled migration visas are subclasses 189, 190, and 491, all managed through the Australian Government’s SkillSelect system.
Permanent residency pathways
Live and work anywhere in Australia (visa dependent)
Points-based system focused on skills and experience
Include eligible family members in your application
Access to Medicare and public services (PR visas)
What Is the Skilled Migration Visa?
The Skilled Migration Visa stream includes three key visa options:
Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)
Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)
Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491)
All visas under this stream are points-tested, meaning applicants are ranked based on factors such as age, English language ability, skilled work experience, qualifications, and other criteria. Invitations to apply are issued through SkillSelect.
Main Skilled Visa Options
Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)
- Permanent residency visa
- No employer, state, or family sponsorship required
- Freedom to live and work anywhere in Australia
Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)
- Permanent residency visa
- Requires nomination by an Australian state or territory
- Provides an additional 5 points toward the points test
- Requires commitment to live and work in the nominating state
Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491)
- Provisional visa valid for up to 5 years
- Requires nomination by a state or territory or sponsorship by an eligible family member
- Grants 15 additional points
- Provides a pathway to permanent residency through Subclass 191 after meeting residence and work requirements
Basic Eligibility Requirements
To apply for a Skilled Migration Visa, you must:
Have an eligible occupation on the relevant skilled occupation list
Obtain a positive skills assessment for your nominated occupation
Be invited to apply through SkillSelect
Be under the age limit (generally under 45 years)
Meet the English language requirements
Achieve a minimum of 65 points on the points test
Meet health and character requirements
Key Benefits of Skilled Migration Visas
Permanent or future permanent residency in Australia
Ability to include eligible family members
Right to live, work, and study in Australia
Access to Medicare and public healthcare
Opportunity to sponsor eligible relatives after gaining permanent residency
Application Process
The skilled migration application process generally involves the following steps:
Check if your occupation is on the relevant skilled occupation list
Obtain a skills assessment from the appropriate assessing authority
Sit an approved English language test
Calculate your points score
Lodge an Expression of Interest (EOI) in SkillSelect
Receive an invitation to apply
Submit your visa application with supporting documents within the required timeframe
Need Professional Advice?
Skilled migration requirements can be complex and competitive. Professional guidance can help you assess your eligibility, maximise your points score, and choose the most suitable visa pathway.
Contact us today for a personalised skilled migration assessment.
