Skilled visas
Independent Skilled (Subclass 189) & State Sponsored (Subclass 190) Visa
General Skilled Migration (GSM) is a points-based, occupation dependent process for highly skilled individuals. There are two main subclasses, being the Skilled (Subclass 189) or State Sponsored (Subclass 190) and encompass 3-4 stages respectively. These being, undertaking a skills assessment, submitting an Expression of Interest (EoI) and a visa application. If applying for a Subclass 190, a State Sponsorship Nomination application is required prior to submitting a visa application.
The key difference between the two subclasses is that the Subclass 189 is restrictive with occupations, and an applicant must, therefore, be skilled enough and elect an occupation from a certain list under legislation. Whereas the Subclass 190 is State dependent. Each Australian State has its own occupation list, dependent on what is in demand within the area. There’s more scope with occupations and applicants may claim an additional five points.
Points can be claimed on numerous factors, including age, English language ability, work experience, qualifications and more. A minimum point score of 65 is required, but we endeavour to claim as many points as possible in order for a better chance to obtain an invitation.
Provided a positive skills assessment is obtained, and the minimum point score is met, then an Expression of Interest can be submitted. A crucial part of the process, you cannot proceed with a Subclass 189 or 190, without being ‘invited’ via the EoI.
Should an invitation be received, only then can we progress to submitting the visa application.
GSM is a complex and lengthy process, which is also very competitive due to the limited number of ‘invitations’’ issued per year.
Contact us today to discuss your eligibility.
Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) (Subclass 491) visa
Similar to the Subclass 190, the Subclass 491 is state dependent and is points-based. Applicants are required to be located and work in a ‘Designated Regional Area’ of Australia.
The regional areas include the majority of Australia, except for Sydney, Melbourne, Gold Coast, Brisbane and other large populated areas of the country.
The Subclass 491 will result in a five-year temporary visa, within which the holder must reside in a designated regional area working in their occupation. After three years holding the visa, an avenue to permanent residency will become available.
Contact us today to discuss your eligibility.
