Introduction
Australia offers multiple pathways for skilled professionals who want to work and settle permanently. Because of its strong demand for skilled labor, skilled visas in Australia provide excellent opportunities for qualified individuals. These visas are part of the general skilled migration visas program, ensuring that Australia attracts highly skilled professionals to contribute to its economy.
If you are planning to apply for a skilled migration visa for Australia, understanding the different visa types is essential. Therefore, we will explore the three key visa subclasses under the Skilled Migration Program.
About Skilled Visas in Australia
A skilled migration visa for Australia allows foreign professionals with in-demand skills to work and live in Australia. The general skilled migration visas are points-tested and require applicants to meet eligibility criteria based on factors such as age, work experience, education, and English proficiency. Moreover, these visas offer a pathway to permanent residency.
The three main skilled visas in Australia are:
Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)
Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)
Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491)
Let’s explore these visas in detail.
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Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)
The Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) is for skilled workers who do not need employer sponsorship or state nomination. It is a points-based visa that grants permanent residency.
Key Features:
✔ No sponsorship required from a state, employer, or family.
✔ Permanent residency granted upon visa approval.
✔ Freedom to live and work anywhere in Australia.
✔ Requires an invitation to apply through the Skill Select system.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) and score the required points.
- Occupation must be listed in the Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL).
- Meet age, skills assessment, and English language requirements.
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Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)
The Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190) requires a state or territory government nomination. It is also a points-tested permanent visa.
Key Features:
✔ Offers permanent residency upon approval.
✔ Requires nomination from an Australian state or territory.
✔ Provides an additional five points towards the points test.
✔ Applicants must commit to working in the nominating state for at least two years.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Occupation must be listed on the State/Territory Skilled Occupation List.
- Must receive a nomination from an Australian state or territory.
- Meet the required points threshold and other eligibility requirements.
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Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491)
The Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491) is a temporary visa for professionals willing to live and work in regional Australia. It provides a pathway to permanent residency.
Key Features:
✔ Five-year validity with a pathway to PR (Subclass 191).
✔ Requires nomination from a regional state/territory or sponsorship by a family member.
✔ Must live and work in a designated regional area for at least three years.
✔ Provides an additional 15 points towards the points test.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) and receive an invitation.
- Must be sponsored by a regional state/territory or an eligible relative.
- Score the required points and meet the skills assessment criteria.
Conclusion
Australia’s skilled migration visa program provides various opportunities for skilled professionals to settle permanently. At Saga Studies, we specialize in skilled migration visas for Australia applications. Moreover, our immigration experts can guide you in choosing the right visa and securing a brighter future in Australia. Contact us today to start your migration journey with confidence!
