Undoubtedly, Australia has one of the most popular immigration systems globally, offering 1 60,000 permanent residency visas every year. Although the Covid-19 pandemic has impacted the flow of new immigrants, those already onshore can avail these pathways and become part of Australia’s prosperous economy.
Skilled immigration pathways such as Subclass 190 visa/189/or 491 are sought-after streams inviting highly-skilled foreign workers in Australia. The General Skilled Migration Program is designed for individuals looking to migrate to Australia permanently.
The General Skilled Migration is a points-tested stream and the most popular visa application pathway for skilled workers. SkillSelect is Australia’s point-calculator system that allows foreign nationals to apply for a permanent residency in Australia via skilled visas such as Skilled Independent Visa subclass 189. Applicants must demonstrate sufficient qualifications, work experience, language skills to qualify for a skilled migrant visa.
As the name suggests, skilled workers with experience in in-demand occupations can apply to Australia based on their skills through skilled migration visas. It means an Australian employer need not sponsor them to have the visa.
Skilled Migrant Visas for Australia
There are different types of skilled migrant visas available for Australia. The most widely known Australia General skilled migration visas include the following:
· Skilled Independent Visa subclass 189
· Skilled Nominated Visa Subclass 190
Both visa categories grant permanent residency to the visa holder
The Skilled Independent Visa subclass 189 is available for applicants who do not require sponsorship by an employer nor a state or territory government in Australia.
The Skilled Nominated Visa subclass 190 is ideal for candidates who already have sponsorship from an Australian state or territory government.
A temporary point-tested skilled migration visa is also available, known as Skilled Regional Visa subclass 489 that allows the holder to live and work in Australia for up to four years. The visa requires sponsorship either by a state or territory government. Having a close connection in the designated area can also get you the visa.
Occupations Eligible for a Skilled Migrant Visa
There are two types of skilled occupation lists relevant to the general skilled migration. One is the Skilled Occupation List (SOL) for applicants applying for the Skilled Independent Visa. The other is Consolidated Sponsor Occupation List (CSOL) for those seeking Skilled Nominated Visas in Australia.
Interestingly, the majority of occupations in the SOL are the same as the CSOL. It means that a candidate seeking a skilled nominated visa can also meet the point test for either of the lists. However, it is advisable to check the list of individual states to get a clear idea of Australia PR process.
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