Australia’s General Skilled Migration (GSM) program, also known as the points tested visas, offers three options for skilled workers. The Skilled Independent Visa (189), the Skilled Nominated Visa (190) and Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (491). The 189 and 190 visas are permanent visas whereas the 491 visa is a temporary visa that can lead to a permanent visa after 3-4 years.
Skilled – Independent Visa (189)
This visa is for skilled professionals who are in an occupation on the relevant list, meet the minimum points score of 65 and are competitive to get an invitation from Skill Select.
Skilled – Nominated Visa (190)
This visa is for skilled professionals who are in an occupation on the relevant list, meet the minimum points score of 65 and also meet the requirements of a State/Territory from which they seek nomination.
Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (491)
This is a temporary visa that can convert later to a permanent visa. This visa is suited for professionals who either do not qualify for the 189 or the 190 visa, or their occupation is only open for the 491 visa.
Temporary Graduate (485)
This is a temporary visa for individuals who have completed their studies in Australia
Frequently asked questions – Skilled Visas
The occupation you nominate for the visa process will depend on your qualification and your work experience. The Australian standard for determining nominated occupations is known as the Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations ( ANZSCO)
A skills assessment is is generally the first, and the most important step in the migration process. This assessment is done by a body that specialises in the field under which you have nominated your occupation. Each assessing body will have its own application process, associated fee and processing times.
It is possible to marry while your skilled visa is being processed, however, there can be adverse consequences in some instances.
Yes. If you were in a relationship at the time of receiving the invitation to apply for one of the above visas then you can add your partner and children to the application. You can add them even if you are in Australia and they are overseas.
If you separate from your partner during processing, you must inform Home Affairs immediately through ImmiAccount. As you partner also has an active visa application, this will need to be withdrawn as they will no longer be eligible to migrate with you as a member of your family. If your partner is in Australia at the time of separation, they should seek professional advice.
There are provisions for adding a baby to the application but this depends on the processing stage of your application. The provisions are different for adding a baby born before application lodgment, born during processing or born after visa grant.