GENERAL SKILLED MIGRATION VISAS
The General Skilled Migration (GSM) visas are for skilled workers who have qualifications and work experience in occupations Australia needs. GSM visas generally rely on a points system that aim to attract individuals who can contribute to the Australian economy and fill skills shortages. While the ENS visas focus on employer needs, the GSM visas focus on applicants and their potential contribution to Australia.
SKILLED INDEPENDENT VISA
SUBCLASS 189
The Subclass 189 visa is a points-tested permanent visa for skilled workers who are not sponsored by an employer, state or territory government, or family member. To be eligible, applicants must have an occupation on the relevant skilled occupation list, submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect, and receive an invitation to apply. This visa allows holders to live and work anywhere in Australia with full permanent residency rights.
SKILLED WORK REGIONAL (PROVISIONAL) VISA
SUBCLASS 491
The Subclass 491 Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa is a points-tested temporary visa for skilled workers who are willing to live and work in designated regional areas of Australia. Applicants must be nominated by a state or territory government or sponsored by an eligible relative residing in a regional area.
SUBCLASS 190
The Subclass 190 visa is a points-tested permanent residency visa for skilled workers who are nominated by an Australian state or territory. To be eligible, applicants must have an occupation on the relevant skilled occupation list, submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect, and receive a nomination from a state or territory government. Once invited, applicants can apply for the visa. Successful visa holders are expected to live and work in the nominating state or territory for a specified period as part of their commitment to the nomination.
SKILLED NOMINATED VISA
PERMANENT RESIDENCE (SKILLED REGIONAL)
SUBCLASS 191
The Subclass 191 visa is for individuals who have previously held a qualifying provisional regional visa, such as the subclass 491 or 494. This visa provides a permanent pathway for skilled workers who have lived, worked, and studied in designated regional areas of Australia for at least three years and met the minimum taxable income requirements for those years. It allows holders to live and work permanently anywhere in Australia. The subclass 191 is not points-tested, and no nomination or sponsorship is required at the time of application.