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Skilled Visas Services
Australian Skilled Visas: Your Key to Working Down Under
What are the different types of Australian skilled worker visas available?
There are various types of skilled visas for Australia, such as the Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189), Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190), and Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (subclass 491). Each visa has specific requirements and benefits based on individual circumstances.
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Australia offers skilled workers multiple pathways through its points-based skilled migration program. This system is designed to attract highly skilled professionals who can contribute to the Australian economy. The key skilled visa subclasses under this program include:
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Subclass 189 (Skilled Independent Visa)
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Subclass 190 (Skilled Nominated Visa)
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Subclass 491 (Skilled Work Regional Visa)
These visas provide opportunities for skilled migrants to become permanent residents or obtain regional work permits with a pathway to permanent residence.
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Subclass 189 – Skilled Independent Visa
The Subclass 189 visa is a points-based visa for skilled workers who do not require state nomination or employer sponsorship. Applicants must score at least 65 points on the points calculator, considering factors such as age, skilled work experience, English proficiency, and qualifications.
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Key Features:
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No requirement for an employer or state sponsorship
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Provides permanent residency in Australia
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Allows you to live and work anywhere in the country
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Requires a minimum of 65 points on the points-based system
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Subclass 190 – Skilled Nominated Visa
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The Subclass 190 visa is also a points-based visa, but it requires nomination by an Australian state or territory government. Each state’s nomination criteria differ, and nomination typically grants additional points, increasing your chances of receiving an invitation to apply.
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Key Features:
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Requires nomination from a state or territory
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Grants permanent residency
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Provides additional points for state nomination
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A minimum of 65 points is required, but state sponsorship boosts eligibility
Subclass 491 – Skilled Work Regional Visa
The Subclass 491 visa is a provisional skilled visa for individuals willing to live and work in designated regional areas. This visa requires either:
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Sponsorship by a family member residing in a regional area, or
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Nomination by a state or territory government
The Subclass 491 visa provides a pathway to permanent residency after three years.
Key Features:
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Requires regional state nomination or family sponsorship
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Initially a temporary visa but leads to permanent residency
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Must live and work in a designated area
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A minimum 65 points is required
Qualification and Steps for Applying for a Points-Based Visa
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Check the Skilled Occupation List – Ensure your occupation is listed in Australia’s Skilled Occupation List.
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Skills Assessment – Get your skills assessed by a relevant Australian authority to meet eligibility criteria.
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English Proficiency – Demonstrate proficiency through IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE tests.
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Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) – Apply through SkillSelect, indicating your skills and visa preferences.
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Receive an Invitation – If selected, you will receive an invitation to apply.
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Submit a Visa Application – Provide necessary documents, including skills assessment, work experience, and health checks.
Visa Approval – Upon successful application, you will receive a visa grant, allowing you to live, work, or study in Australia.
How the Points System Works
The points-based system evaluates applicants based on:
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Age – Maximum points awarded for ages 25-32.
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English Proficiency – Higher scores on English tests (IELTS 7+ or equivalent) lead to more points.
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Work Experience – Points are granted for years of skilled work, both in and outside Australia.
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Education – Points for bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD qualifications.
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State Sponsorship – Additional points for Subclass 190 and 491 nominations.
A minimum of 65 points is required, but the higher your score, the better your chances of receiving an invitation.
Is the Subclass 186 Visa Points-Based?
No, the Subclass 186 Visa (Employer Nomination Scheme) is not points-based. It is a permanent visa for skilled workers sponsored by an Australian employer, bypassing the points calculator requirement.
Why Choose Guney Migration Consultancy Melbourne?
Navigating Australia’s skilled migration program can be challenging due to complex rules and frequent policy changes. Seeking immigration assistance from an experienced legal practitioner or migration agent can improve your chances of success.
At Guney Migration Consultancy, we provide expert guidance tailored to your unique migration goals. Our team, led by Ceren Guney (Migration Lawyer) and Feriha Guney (MARN 0960690), offers professional support throughout your visa application process.
We assist with:
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Assessing eligibility for skilled migration visas
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Guidance on the points-based system and visa options
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Application process support for skilled independent, nominated, and regional visas
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Navigating additional requirements for visa holders
Stay updated with changes to Australia’s migration program, including potential revisions to the points-based visa system, ensuring you make informed decisions about your future.
Contact Guney Migration Consultancy today for professional immigration assistance and take the first step toward your Australian visa!