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Skilled Visas Services

Points-Based Skilled Migration Visas in Australia:

There are several pathways for skilled workers to migrate to Australia. The main pathway is through its points-based visa system. The visas under this system include:
 

  1. Subclass 189 (Independent Skilled Visa),

  2. Subclass 190 (State Nominated Skilled Visa), and

  3. Subclass 491 (Regional Skilled Visa).


These visas aim to attract individuals with skills that can contribute to Australia’s economy.

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Subclass 189 – Independent Skilled Visa

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Subclass 189 is a points-based visa for skilled workers who want to migrate to Australia without employer sponsorship or state nomination. Applicants must score a minimum of 65 points in categories such as age, education, work experience, and English proficiency.


Key Features:
 

  1. No need for employer or state sponsorship.

  2. Permanent residency visa.

  3. You can live and work anywhere in Australia.
     

Requires a minimum of 65 points on the points test.

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Subclass 190 – State Nominated Skilled Visa

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Subclass 190 is also a points-based visa, but it requires nomination by an Australian state or territory. Each state has its criteria for nominating skilled workers. Once you receive a nomination, you can apply for the visa.

 

Key Features:

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  1. Requires state or territory nomination.

  2. Offers permanent residency.

  3. The minimum points requirement is 65, but you get additional points for state nomination.

 

Subclass 491 – Regional Skilled Visa

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Subclass 491 is a provisional points-based visa for skilled workers willing to live and work in regional Australia. You must be sponsored by a family member in a regional area or by a regional state/territory government. This visa provides a pathway to permanent residency after 3 years.

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Key Features:

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  1. Requires sponsorship from a regional family member or state.

  2. Initially a temporary visa but offers a pathway to permanent residency.

  3. Must live and work in regional Australia.

  4. Minimum 65 points required on the points-based system.

Steps for Applying for a Points-Based Visa:

  1. Skills Assessment: The first step is to assess your qualifications by the relevant Australian authority to ensure they meet local standards.
     

  2. English Proficiency: You must demonstrate your English language skills through IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE tests.
     

  3. Expression of Interest (EOI): Submit an EOI through the SkillSelect system. In this step, you’ll declare your skills, experience, and the regions where you are willing to work.
     

  4. Receive an Invitation: If your EOI is selected, you will receive an invitation to apply for the visa.
     

  5. Submit Visa Application: Once invited, you can submit your official visa application, including documents such as skills assessments, work experience proof, and health checks.
     

Visa Approval: If successful, you will be granted a visa that allows you to live, work, or study in Australia.

How the Points System Works

The points-based visa system evaluates applicants based on several factors:

  1. Age: Younger applicants (25-32) earn the most points.

  2. English Proficiency: Higher English test scores lead to more points (e.g., an IELTS score of 7 or above).

  3. Work Experience: You earn points based on your years of skilled work, whether in or outside Australia.

  4. Education: Points are awarded for qualifications such as bachelor’s or PhD degrees.

  5. State Sponsorship: Additional points are awarded for sponsorship from a state (for Subclass 190 or 491).


A minimum of 65 points is required to be eligible for Subclass 189, 190, and 491 visas, but the higher your score, the better your chances of being invited to apply.

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Is the Subclass 186 Visa Points-Based?
 

No, the Subclass 186 Visa (Employer Nomination Scheme) is not a points-based visa. It is a permanent residency visa for skilled workers sponsored by an Australian employer. Unlike the points-based visas, Subclass 186 relies on employer sponsorship and doesn’t require you to meet a points threshold.

Conclusion:

Points-based Visa System

Australia’s points-based visa system offers skilled workers a clear pathway to permanent residency through Subclass 189, 190, and 491 visas. These visas rely on a points system that evaluates factors such as age, skills, and experience. By carefully preparing for the skills assessment, and English tests, and understanding the points system, you can improve your chances of securing a visa.

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Please note that one of the key areas highlighted in the Migration Strategy for future reform is the potential revision of the points system, aiming to better select migrants who can contribute to Australia’s long-term success. We will keep you updated on any changes.

Navigating the Australian immigration process can be challenging due to its complexity and frequent changes in laws and regulations. Engaging a migration lawyer or a registered migration agent can significantly enhance your chances of a successful application.
 

With Guney Migration Consultancy, clients benefit from expert guidance tailored to their unique situations. The firm is led by Ceren Guney, a migration lawyer, and Feriha Guney (MARN 0960690), a registered migration agent. They combine deep knowledge of Australian migration law with a client-first approach, ensuring that applicants make informed decisions throughout their migration journey.

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