Overview
The Skilled Migration program allows qualified professionals to live and work in Australia permanently or temporarily. The main subclasses are:
- Subclass 189 – Skilled Independent Visa (Permanent)
- Subclass 190 – Skilled Nominated Visa (Permanent)
- Subclass 491 – Skilled Work Regional (Provisional)
Eligibility Criteria
- Age under 45 years at the time of invitation
- Minimum score of 65 points in the Points Test
- Occupation must be on the relevant skilled occupation list
- Skill assessment from an authorized body
- English proficiency (IELTS, PTE, TOEFL)
- Health and character requirements
Subclass Differences
- 189: No state nomination required, PR directly
- 190: Requires nomination from a state/territory
- 491: Regional visa (5 years) leading to PR via Subclass 191
Points Test System
Applicants are awarded points for:
- Age
- English proficiency
- Skilled employment (in Australia and overseas)
- Educational qualifications
- Australian study
- Partner skills
- Nomination or sponsorship (for 190/491)
Minimum Required: 65 points
Required Documents
- Valid passport
- Skill assessment outcome
- English test results (IELTS/PTE/TOEFL)
- Educational and work experience documents
- Police clearance certificate
- Medical exam reports
- Marriage or birth certificates (if applicable)
Application Process
- Check your occupation on the Skilled Occupation List
- Get a positive skills assessment
- Take English language test
- Submit Expression of Interest (EOI) via SkillSelect
- Wait for invitation to apply
- Submit visa application with documents
Processing Time & Fees
- Subclass 189/190: ~6 to 12 months
- Subclass 491: ~5 to 9 months
- Visa Application Fee (primary applicant): AUD 4,640 (approx.)
Useful Resources
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