The Skilled Migration Visa program in Australia is designed to attract highly skilled and qualified professionals to migrate and work in Australia.
Skilled migration visas provide a pathway to permanent residency and citizenship in Australia, allowing skilled professionals to build a new life in one of the world's most prosperous and multicultural countries. However, the skilled migration process can be complex and highly competitive, so it is important to seek the advice of a registered migration agent or immigration lawyer to increase the chances of success.
To be eligible for a skilled migration visa, applicants must meet certain requirements such as having a nominated occupation that is on the skilled occupation list, meeting the relevant skills assessment requirements, and scoring a minimum number of points in the points test. Points are awarded based on factors such as age, education, work experience, language proficiency, and other relevant criteria.
There are different types of skilled migration visas available, including:
Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189)
The Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189) is a points-based visa that does not require sponsorship or nomination from an employer or state or territory government. It is designed for highly skilled workers who have skills and experience that are in demand in the Australian labour market.
Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)
The Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190) is a permanent visa that requires nomination from a state or territory government based on the applicant's skills and experience. Applicants must meet the criteria for the relevant state or territory, which may include having a job.
Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (subclass 491)
The Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (subclass 491) is a temporary visa that allows skilled workers to live and work in regional areas of Australia for up to five years. Applicants must be nominated by a state or territory government or sponsored by an eligible family member living in a designated regional area.
The Subclass 191 Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) visa is a permanent visa and a pathway for those who have held a subclass 494 and 491 visa for at least three years and have met specific income and regional residency criteria. This visa allows the holder to live, work and study in Australia permanently, and can lead to Australian citizenship.