General Skilled Migration Visa

Often referred to as the ‘lucky country’, ‘Australia’ is well-known for its beautiful natural landscapes, stable economy, governance & favourable immigration framework for immigrants.
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General Skilled Migration Visa (GSM)

Often referred to as the ‘lucky country’, ‘Australia’ is well-known for its beautiful natural landscapes, stable economy, governance & favourable immigration framework for immigrants. This 13th largest economy of the world, truly reflects highest quality of life globally, scores of job opportunities, relaxed lifestyle, natural marvels as well as ease of doing business,  consequently, making it worthwhile, to take that first mindful step towards migrating to Australia.

General Skilled Migration Visa Australia

While gaining acceptance into Australia could be a challenging task, the country offers well-defined pathways for highly skilled professionals & workers under ‘General Skilled Migration program’. The migration program is devised to draw skilled workers & specialists who can make substantial contribution to the Australian economy. Additionally, the skilled stream serves best for skilled personnel, who desire to work & migrate in Australia on a permanent basis. Furthermore, it boosts the regional development, skills, investments & encourages spending regionally.

Australia’s efficient immigration program not only adds to its appeal as the perfect destination for migration, but is also based on non-discriminatory policy, consequently being open to anyone & everyone, who meets the desired visa criteria. On the same lines, the country has come up with various subclasses under skilled visa category, detailed below. Some of the most common Australian skilled visa types are

  • Skilled Independent Visa – Subclass 189 (Permanent Visa)
  • Skilled Nominated Visa – Subclass 190 (Permanent Visa)
  • Skilled Regional Visa – Subclass 491 (Provisional Visa)

Understanding Australia’s Key Skilled Visa Options

Australia offers various clearly outlined visa pathways aimed specifically at skilled professionals & workers, willing to migrate permanently to the country. Various subclasses that fall under GSM visa path, have been mentioned below.

Subclass 189 (Permanent Visa) Skilled Independent

The chief focus of the visa pathway is that professionals & workers should make significant contribution to the Australian economy. GSM or permanent skilled visa, is one of the most predominant visa pathways for permanent residency to Australia, which has been specifically designed to appeal the expert professionals from across the globe. These skilled professionals are not sponsored by any family member, employer or state, territory or region.

Points-based system of Skill Select

The category is a points-based visa for skilled workers seeking permanent migration without employer sponsorship. So the eligibility is determined by English proficiency, education, work experience, Australian studies, partner skills, and nominated occupation, with a minimum score requirement of 60 points. You can even include your spouse and dependent children in the visa application. However, as a process you need to be invited by the Australian Immigration Department to apply for the visa.

Core Highlights of Subclass 189 Visa

  • The visa allows you to remain indefinitely anywhere in Australia.
  • Applicant does not require any sponsorship from the State or Government.
  • Additionally, approval of the visa provides you with an opportunity to earn in Australian dollars with all-inclusive working rights.
  • If eligible, this visa subclass let you gain an Australian citizenship & you can permanently settle in Australia along with the family.

What are the Eligibility requirements for Subclass 189?

  1. In order to qualify for the visa application, it is mandatory to score 65 points.
  2. The primary requirement is an age limit of 45 years at the time of application.
  3. You need a valid invitation to apply for the visa.
  4. You must have a suitable skills assessment when invited.
  5. Proficient in English Language Skills is another imperative prerequisite.
  6. Prospective applicant & dependents must not have any outstanding debt with the Australian Government
  7. Your chosen occupation must exist as a part in the related list of Eligible Skilled Occupations List for Subclass 189 namely, the Skilled Occupation List (SOL) or the Consolidated Sponsored Occupation List. (CSOL).
  8. You as well as your dependents must qualify the health & character obligations.
  9. There should not be any history of cancelled visa or previously refused visa application of Australia.
  10. The Australian Value Statement needs to be signed by the applicant if aged above 18 years of age.

Subclass 189 – Visa Fees & Processing Time

The cost of visa subclass 189 for the main applicant is approximately AUD 4,045. Nevertheless, if the applicant is taking dependents, then there is an added cost for each family member, varying according to the age. Above 18 years of age, the visa cost is AUD 2,020 and below 18 years visa cost is A$ 1,015. If the visa is granted successfully, some of the other additional costs that need to be endured by the applicant are namely English language test fee, skill assessment fee, health assessment fee, Police Clearance Certificate fee as well as Biometric costs.

By & large, the visa application processing time for every application is unique & may vary depending on various aspects like, the completeness of the application form, supporting credentials submitted by the applicant, promptness with which applicant responds to the requests of additional documents, quality of credentials, positions remaining in the migration program, time taken by external agencies to complete the checks & gather further details about the applicant with regards to character, conduct & national security obligations. Currently, the estimated time for processing of subclass 189, is estimated to be around 15-19 months for 90% of the application. Visa application fees & processing time details are frequently updated, so it is advised to get in touch with seasoned migration consultants at Immigration Buddy for more up to date details.

State Nominated Visa- Subclass 190 (Permanent Visa)

Chiefly, skilled nominated visa 190 is a point based visa subclass, which is nominated through different states & territory government of Australia. Each year various states government outline the specific skill sets that are deficient in the region and are required in the particular region. The subclass offers an opportunity to the global skilled workers to permanently migrate to Australia with the sponsorship of the state or territory government. However, it is mandatory to meet the eligibility criteria of the visa category. Some of the key benefits of the visa category are as follows.

  • Subclass 190 allows to work, study or live anywhere in the country.
  • Additionally, it permits registration in the Australia’s public health care scheme, which is Medicare.
  • Become an Australian citizen.
  • Support & sponsor other relatives for permanent residency in Australia.
  • Post granting of the visa, the category agrees multiple entry & exit into Australia.

Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491)

The Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa or subclass 491, is a points-based temporary visa category for skilled workers seeking to reside & work in regional Australia for a maximum of 5 years. Prospective applicant must meet the following criteria to be eligible for the subclass.

  • Age below 45 years at the time of application.
  • Applicant must be invited by a state or territory government agency or eligible relative, to apply for this visa.
  • Either be nominated by the state or territory government or specify an eligible relative that will sponsor the applicant.
  • Having competent English language skills.
  • Hold a suitable skills assessment and fulfil the point threshold of 65 points.
  • Meeting the health and character requirements.
  • No outstanding Government debt, previous cancelled visas or refused applications.
  • Sign the Australian values statement.
  • No Occupation appearing either in the CSOL (Family Sponsored) or SOL (state-sponsored)

 What Are the Lists of Occupations for Skilled Migration Visa Australia?

Under the Skilled migration visa in Australia, different occupation doors are open. If you want to migrate to this country, you must know about them. Authorities of this nation have set rules and have a list of skilled professions. There are three major and demanding options available that are relevant to skilled visa systems.

Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL)

The government of Australia categorises the occupations list into three. Firstly, under the MLTSSL list, there are around 212 professions. Out of all, this is the most challenging category that covers many job categories. Below mentioned, you will find the most popular jobs that are consistently in high demand for long-term.

  1. Construction Project Manager
  2. Child Care Centre Manager
  3. Environmental Manager
  4. Taxation Accountant
  5. Management Consultant
  6. Primary Health Organisation Manager
  7. Engineering Manager
  8. Arts Administrator or Manager

Regional Occupation List (ROL)

The ROL is another prevalent list for a skilled visa Australia. Candidates can apply when they want to work in a specific region of the country. Under this category, you can live and work in the nominated areas. For this, you must have a skilled worker regional visa (subclass 491). Around 77 jobs are included in ROL, here is the list of the top ones.

  1. Sports Administrator
  2. Fruit or Nut Grower
  3. Project Builder
  4. Public Relations Manager
  5. Policy Analyst
  6. Flying Instructor
  7. Dentist
  8. Translator

Short-term Occupation Skills List (STOSL)

Skilled worker visa candidates in Australia can choose from various jobs in the STOSL list. In Australia, STOSL is highly favoured by skilled professionals. Under this category, the government has included 215 occupations. To meet the labour efficiency in the market, authorities review them regularly. Also, you may need a sponsor or employer, who will help in getting the skilled migration visa. A few job options are listed below.

  1. Flower Grower
  2. Sales and Marketing Manager
  3. Finance Manager
  4. Production Manager (Forestry)
  5. Supply and Distribution Manager
  6. Laboratory Manager
  7. Hotel or Motel Manager
  8. Facilities Manager

Benifits of a Skilled Migration Visa in Australia

In the recent years, the demand for Australian skilled migrant visas has increased. Also, for many people, Australia remains the most favorable destination for Permanent Residency. Applicants from more than 150 countries take advantage of a diverse society, vibrant cultures and luxurious lifestyles. This is the reason behind the moving of skilled workers to Australia. There are multiple other benefits of skilled migrant visa, let us explore some of the best.

High Living Standards

Opting for skilled visa offers a chance to enjoy a high-quality lifestyle in Australia It includes public transport, an effective education system and health benefits. Apart from this, there is a low crime rate which makes it safer for national and international migrants.

Free or Subsidised Education

The education system of the country is very popular in the world. In comparison to other nations, it has a more comprehensive approach. Students at different study levels get here free education from the government.

Flexible Immigration Laws

Throughout the country, you will find flexible and updated rules for visa policies. Whether it is a GSM visa or any other subclass, the application process can take stipulated timeline. Once you hold a skilled PR visa, you can live and work in the country hassle-free.

Plentiful of Employment Options

After holding a migration skilled visa Australia, you have lots of work options. Your skills and expertise help to find the most suitable job as per your qualification level. As per some reports, around eighty percent of migrants get work permits here and have a high income.

Step-wise Process to Apply for a Skilled Visa Australia

Get a detailed review of the process of applying for a skilled visa.

Phase-1

  • In the first step, you need to look for eligibility. It includes the required age, English skills, and occupation assessment. Besides, all the requirements you should be relevant to the skilled visa in Australia.
  • Australia offers a variety of migration visa subclasses. In the second step, applicants will have to enter the category they qualify for. For example, a skilled work regional visa of subclass 491.
  • In the third step, you need to collect the required documents for visas on time. It includes a passport, photo, education transcripts, English test scores, and so on.

Phase-2

  • To apply for a migration visa in Australia, you need to submit an Expression of Interest. In this, you need to provide all documents and other relevant details.
  • After submitting the EOI, DHA will send you an invitation. You will get the deadline for submitting the documents in this letter. Now, you have to, submit your application for the skilled migration visa within two months from the receipt of the invitation.

Phase-3

  • As you receive the invitation you will need to obtain a visa for entry into the country. At this time, you should pay the application fees and submit all the essential papers.
  • This is the time when the DHA will review your profile for visa application. The completion time depends on the visa category. Candidates can track the status of the process from your Immi Account. That means it is time to wait for the decision of DHA.
  • Eventually, if everything goes well, you will receive a visa grant number. In this, you will see the commencement date and the condition of the visa. Now, you can make all the arrangements and move to the country within twelve months.

There are undeniably plentiful of benefits of migrating to Australia, the country not only epitomises sun, sand & surfing but also diverse ecosystems, esplanades, flora & fauna. Partner with Immigration Buddy and speed up your chances of going to Australia, towards indefinite career opportunities in the most relaxed and affordable country.

Benefits to Apply for Your Skilled Visa Australia through Immigration Buddy

During the process of application, many people face challenges. Sometimes, due to incomplete documentations or application forms applicants even face rejections. In that case, the best skilled visa migration agent can help you throughout the journey. Here are the reasons why you must choose Immigration Buddy for this.

Affordable Solutions

With us you will find experts who have comprehensive understanding of Australia’s immigration laws. Also, we are aware of current policies and regulations so that your application meets all the policy requirements.

Expertise and Experience

Our team consists of the most professional and experienced Australian immigration agents. Moreover, we are dedicated to our customer’s preferences.

Skill Assessment Assistance

Our company can help arrange the necessary documents and submit them to have your skills reviewed. Besides, if there is an issue with the assessment of your skills, then our migration agents will clear all your doubts.

Documentation on Time

Customers who require a checklist of documents for obtaining a visa can get help from us. You will know about the common mistakes so you will not repeat them. Besides, your chances of rejection will surely decrease.

Get Started Now!

You have got a detailed review of a skilled visa in Australia. Now, it is time to decide to connect with Immigration Buddy & apply for your skilled migration visa. Also, you’ve learned about the application process at Immigration Buddy, gaining insight into our operations.

So, for flawless applications, consider an expert visa consultant. Choose the best skilled visa consultant ‘Immigration Buddy’ to ease your migration journey with fewer challenges.

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Frequently Asked Questions

The Points Test evaluates the candidates based on their accumulated points of age, educational qualification, work experience and skills in English.

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