Skilled visas are a popular option for many skilled workers who are wishing to immigrate to Australia. The visa is designed to attract employable and skilled people to Australia. They are based on a points-tested system. Points are awarded to applicants based a number of factors including age, work experience, qualifications, English language ability etc.
These visas are only available for application upon invitation; first you must submit an ‘Expression of Interest' (EOI).
General eligibility criteria requires you to:
be younger than 45 when you are invited to apply
have at least 65 points
have a positive skills assessment in an occupation from a relevant occupation list(s)
have at least a ‘competent’ level of English
meet health and character requirements.
Three main visa subclasses fall within this category, as set out below:
Skilled Independent Visa
Subclass 189
The Subclass 189 is a permanent visa. It allows the visa holder to live and work anywhere in Australia.
It is a good option for people with high points and a nominated occupation from the MLTSSL (Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List).
Skilled Nominated Visa
Subclass 190
The Subclass 190 is a permanent visa. It allows the visa holder to live and work in Australia but it also requires nomination by a State or Territory Government.
Benefits of applying for the Subclass 190 are:
More occupations are available – you can select an occupation from either the MLTSSL (Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List) or the STSOL (Short-term Skilled Occupation List)
You receive an additional 5 points for state nomination.
Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa
SUBCLASS 491
The Subclass 491 is a temporary (provisional) visa. It is granted for a period of up to 5 years and allows the visa holder to live, work and/or study in a specified region of Australia. You must be nominated by a State or Territory Government or sponsored by an eligible relative.
Benefits of applying for the Subclass 491 are:
More occupations are available – you can select an occupation from either the MLTSSL (Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List) or the STSOL (Short-term Skilled Occupation List) or the Regional Occupation List (ROL)
You receive an additional 15 points for state nomination.
Even though this is a provisional visa, a direct pathway to permanent residency is available.