Overview of Skilled Migration to Australia
Australia's skilled migration program is designed to attract workers with qualifications and experience in occupations that are in demand. The program is points-based, meaning applicants are assessed against a range of factors including age, English proficiency, work experience, and education level. Understanding the different visa subclasses is the first step toward finding the right pathway for your situation.
The Points-Tested Skilled Visas
Most skilled visas operate under the SkillSelect system, which requires you to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) before being invited to apply for a visa.
Subclass 189 – Skilled Independent Visa
This is a permanent residency visa for skilled workers who are not sponsored by an employer or nominated by a state or territory government. It is the most autonomous pathway — you don't need ties to any particular employer or location. To be eligible, your occupation must be on the relevant skilled occupation list, and you must score at least 65 points on the points test.
Subclass 190 – Skilled Nominated Visa
Also a permanent visa, the Subclass 190 requires nomination by a state or territory government. In return for nomination, you receive 5 bonus points on your points test score. You are generally expected to live and work in the nominating state for at least two years after the visa is granted.
Subclass 491 – Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa
This is a provisional (temporary) visa for skilled workers willing to live and work in regional Australia. You must be nominated by a state or territory government or sponsored by an eligible family member. After three years, 491 holders can apply for the Subclass 191 permanent visa if they meet income and residence requirements.
Employer-Sponsored Skilled Visas
If you have a job offer from an Australian employer, you may be eligible for an employer-sponsored pathway:
- Subclass 482 (Temporary Skill Shortage Visa): A temporary visa allowing employers to address labour shortages by bringing in skilled overseas workers. It has three streams: Short-term, Medium-term, and Labour Agreement.
- Subclass 186 (Employer Nomination Scheme): A permanent visa for workers nominated by their Australian employer. Can be accessed directly or after working on a 482 visa.
How the Points Test Works
| Factor | Points Available |
|---|---|
| Age (25–32 years) | Up to 30 points |
| English language ability | Up to 20 points |
| Skilled employment (overseas) | Up to 15 points |
| Skilled employment (in Australia) | Up to 20 points |
| Educational qualifications | Up to 20 points |
| Australian study requirement | 5 points |
| State/territory nomination | 5 points |
| Partner skills | Up to 10 points |
A minimum score of 65 points is required to submit an EOI, but in practice, invitations are often issued to applicants with significantly higher scores depending on demand for a particular occupation.
Skills Assessment
Before submitting an EOI, most applicants must have their qualifications and work experience assessed by the relevant skills assessing authority for their occupation. For example, Engineers Australia assesses engineering professionals, while VETASSESS covers a broad range of trades and professional occupations.
Key Steps to Apply
- Check if your occupation is on a skilled occupation list.
- Get a skills assessment from the relevant authority.
- Sit an English language test (IELTS, PTE, or similar) if required.
- Calculate your points score.
- Submit an EOI through SkillSelect.
- Wait for an invitation to apply, then lodge a full visa application.
Migration rules and occupation lists change regularly. Always check the Department of Home Affairs website for the most current information before making decisions about your migration pathway.