SkilledVisaPrograms
Your pathway to Australian permanent residence
Expert guidance for skilled migration pathways to Australia
Skilled Migration to Australia
Australia's skilled migration program is designed to attract highly skilled workers who can contribute to the Australian economy. A positive skills assessment is mandatory for certain visa subclasses and can significantly impact your migration process.
Points-based selection system with minimum 65 points required
Multiple visa subclasses available
Direct pathway to permanent residence
Include eligible family members in application
No employer sponsorship required for some streams
Visa Categories
Subclass 189 - Skilled Independent
Points Tested Stream visa for skilled workers to migrate without employer sponsorship or state nomination. Live and work anywhere in Australia permanently.
Subclass 190 - Skilled Nominated
Permanent residency for skilled workers nominated by an Australian state or territory government. Adds 5 points to your score.
Subclass 491 - Skilled Regional
Provisional visa for skilled workers in regional Australia with 15 bonus points. Pathway to PR via subclass 191.
Subclass 485 - Temporary Graduate
For international students who recently graduated from Australian institutions. Post-Vocational stream requires skills assessment.
Subclass 191 - Skilled Regional PR
Permanent residence for holders of 491 or 494 who meet income ($53,900 per annum) and residence requirements.
Key Benefits
Permanent Residency
Direct pathway to permanent residence with full work and study rights
Family Inclusion
Include spouse/partner and dependent children in your application
Healthcare Access
Enroll in Medicare, Australia's public healthcare system
Travel Freedom
Enter and exit Australia freely for up to 5 years from visa grant
Citizenship Pathway
Become eligible for Australian citizenship after meeting residency requirements
No Sponsor Required
Subclass 189 requires no employer or state sponsorship
Application Process
Skills Assessment
Complete assessment with relevant authority for your occupation
EOI Submission
Submit Expression of Interest via SkillSelect
Receive Invitation
Wait for invitation based on points score and occupation demand
Visa Application
Lodge application within 60 days with all documents
Decision
Receive visa decision and plan your move to Australia
Requirements
Basic Requirements
- Under 45 years of age at time of invitation
- Competent English minimum (IELTS 6 each band)
- Occupation on relevant skilled occupation list
- Positive skills assessment
- Minimum 65 points (competitive score varies by occupation)
Documentation
- Certified copies of qualifications
- Detailed employment references
- English test results (valid for 2 years)
- Skills assessment (valid for 3 years)
- Police clearances from all countries (12+ months residence)
- Medical examinations from panel physician
Health & Character
- Pass health examinations
- Police clearances from all countries
- No substantial criminal record
- No outstanding debts to Australian government
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 190 Visa?
The 190 Visa is a points-tested permanent residency pathway requiring state or territory nomination, allowing individuals to live and work in the nominating region of Australia.
What are the eligibility criteria for the Subclass 190 Visa?
Applicants must be under 45 years old, have an occupation on the MLTSSL or STSOL, score at least 65 points (including 5 points from nomination), demonstrate competent English, obtain a positive skills assessment, and meet health and character requirements.
How does the points test work?
The points test assesses age, English proficiency, work experience, education, and other factors. State or territory nomination adds 5 points to the overall score.
Can family members be included?
Yes, you can include your spouse/partner and dependent children when applying for skilled visas.
How long does processing take?
Processing times vary depending on individual circumstances and the nominating state, typically ranging from several months to over a year.
Do I need a job offer?
No job offer is required for subclass 189 or 190, but you need state nomination for 190.
What if my occupation is not on MLTSSL?
You may still be eligible for subclass 190 if your occupation is on the STSOL, or consider subclass 491 for regional areas.
Ready to Start Your Skilled Migration Journey?
Let our MARA-registered agents guide you through the complex skills assessment and visa application process.