Australia is welcoming over 132,000 skilled professionals in 2025-26, and you could be one of them. General Skilled Migration Australia offers qualified workers a direct pathway to Australian permanent residency without employer sponsorship, giving you access to world-class healthcare and quality education. If you have the right skills, qualifications, and points, Australia’s doors are wide open for your new beginning.
In this comprehensive 2026 Roadmap, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about achieving your Australian PR. First, we’ll help you understand the different General skilled migration visa pathways and identify which skilled visa best suits your unique profile.
We’ll break down the points assessment system, showing you exactly how to score the minimum 65 points and, more importantly, how to boost your chances of receiving an invitation. You’ll learn how to navigate the skills assessment process to get your qualifications officially recognised by Australian authorities.
We’ll also explore state sponsorship strategies that can unlock additional pathways to PR, and guide you through submitting a winning Expression of Interest (EOI) that stands out. Finally, we’ll cover all the crucial 2026 updates and changes in Australia’s immigration landscape, ensuring you’re working with the most current information available.
Whether you’re just starting your research or ready to apply, this roadmap will take you from confusion to confidence step by step toward your Australian PR dream.
Understanding General Skilled Migration (GSM)
The General Skilled Migration (GSM) program is Australia’s primary pathway for skilled workers to migrate without needing a specific employer to sponsor them. Unlike employer-sponsored visas (where you are tied to a specific job), GSM visas are point-tested and invitation-based.
This program is designed to target individuals who possess specific skills that are in high demand across the Australian labour market. The core philosophy is simple: if you have the right age, education, and work experience to boost the Australian economy, the government invites you to apply for a visa.
Key visa subclasses under the GSM program include:
- Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)
- Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)
- Skilled Work Regional Visa (Subclass 491)
Types of General Skilled Migration Visas
Australia offers three main skilled migration visa subclasses, each designed for different circumstances and offering unique advantages. Understanding these options is crucial for choosing the right pathway:
| Visa Subclass | Type | Residency Status | Sponsorship |
| Subclass 189 | Independent | Permanent Residency | None needed |
| Subclass 190 | Nominated | Permanent Residency | State/Territory |
| Subclass 491 | Regional | Temporary Residency Provisional (5 Years) | State or Family sponsored |
Subclass 189 Skilled Independent Visa
This Subclass 189 visa is perfect for applicants who are not sponsored by an employer, state, or family member. It is points-based and considers your age, education, work experience, and English proficiency.
If your occupation is listed on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL) and you score high enough, you may receive an invitation to apply. Once granted, this visa allows you to live and work anywhere in Australia as a permanent resident.
Visa Application Fee:
| Visa subclass | Base application charges |
Additional Applicant 18+ |
Additional Applicant (Under 18) | Non-Internet Application Charge | Subsequent Temporary Application Charge |
| Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 189) | AUD4,910.00 | AUD2,455.00 | AUD1,230.00 | N/A | N/A |
Reference : Home Affairs Fee and Charges Of Visa
Is the 189 Visa Right for You?
The 189 visa is the most competitive pathway in 2026, often requiring points scores of 90+ for popular roles. To understand the latest invitation rounds and probability of success, read our detailed Subclass 189 Visa Guide.
Subclass 190 Skilled Nominated Visa
The subclass 190 requires nomination by an Australian state or territory government. Each state publishes its own list of occupations that are in demand locally.
Receiving a state nomination adds extra points to your total, which can improve your chances of getting invited to apply. It’s a great choice for those who are open to living and working in a specific state while enjoying all the rights of PR in Australia.
Visa Application Fee:
| Visa subclass | Base application charges |
Additional Applicant 18+ |
Additional Applicant (Under 18) | Non-Internet Application Charge | Subsequent Temporary Application Charge |
| Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190) | AUD4,910.00 | AUD2,455.00 | AUD1,230.00 | N/A | N/A |
Reference : Home Affairs Fee and Charges Of Visa
Boost Your Chances with State Nomination:
Each state (like Victoria, NSW, and WA) has its own unique occupation list that is different from the federal list. Understanding these specific state rules is often the key to securing an invite. Learn more in our Subclass 190 State Nomination Visa.
Subclass 491 Skilled Work Regional Visa
The Subclass 491 visa encourages skilled migrants to settle in regional Australia, where labour shortages are greater. It’s a temporary visa that leads to permanent residency through the Subclass 191 visa. Applicants must live, work, and study in a designated regional area for at least three years before applying for permanent residency.
In 2026, Australia has set permanent migration places, allocated to skilled workers. That means thousands of spots are waiting for qualified professionals like you. The skilled migration Australia is designed to attract talent. Australia needs engineers, healthcare workers, IT professionals, and tradespeople. If you have the skills, Australia has the opportunity. Let’s explore how GSM can transform your future.
Visa Application Fee:
| Visa subclass | Base application charges |
Additional Applicant 18+ |
Additional Applicant (Under 18) | Non-Internet Application Charge | Subsequent Temporary Application Charge |
| Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 491) | AUD4,910.00 | AUD2,455.00 | AUD1,230.00 | N/A | N/A |
Reference : Home Affairs Fee and Charges Of Visa
The Regional Advantage:
With 15 bonus points available, the 491 visa is becoming the “go-to” option for many applicants in 2025-26. However, it comes with specific income and residency conditions for the transition to PR. Get the full breakdown in our Subclass 491 Regional Visa Guide: Benefits, Requirements & PR Pathway.
Processing Time Of General Skilled Visas
| Visa Subclass | 50% | 90% |
| 189 Visa (Independent) | 10 month | 11 month |
| 190 Visa (State Nominated) | 17 month | 27 month |
| Subclass 491 (Regional) | 21 month | 28 month |
Reference : Global Visa Processing Time Home Affairs
Why Choose General Skilled Migration?
The benefits of securing permanent residency through skilled migration extend far beyond just living in Australia:
Freedom to Work and Live Anywhere:
With a Subclass 189 visa, you have complete freedom to live, work, and study anywhere in Australia. You’re not tied to a specific employer, state, or region (though regional visas have initial location requirements).
Medicare Access:
Enjoy Australia’s world-renowned public healthcare system from day one. Medicare provides subsidised or free treatment in public hospitals and covers many medical services.
Pathway to Citizenship:
After meeting residency requirements, you can apply for Australian citizenship, opening doors to one of the world’s most powerful passports.
Family Inclusion:
Bring your spouse and dependent children with you. They’ll enjoy the same rights and benefits, including access to education and healthcare.
Employment Opportunities in Australia
Australia’s job market in 2026 is booming. The country faces a critical skills shortage across multiple industries. This creates golden opportunities for skilled migrants. Employment opportunities in Australia have never been stronger.
High-Demand Industries in 2026
Healthcare leads the demand. Australia needs nurses, doctors, aged care workers, and allied health professionals. The ageing population drives this need.
Technology comes second. Software developers, cybersecurity experts, data analysts, and IT support specialists are in short supply.
Construction and trades face severe shortages. Electricians, plumbers, carpenters, and civil engineers can name their price. Infrastructure projects worth billions need skilled tradespeople.
Engineering sectors cry out for talent. Mechanical, electrical, and civil engineers find multiple job offers. Mining companies, manufacturing firms, and infrastructure developers all compete for qualified engineers.
Education needs teachers desperately. Secondary teachers, especially in mathematics and science, receive signing bonuses. Regional schools offer housing allowances and relocation support.
In-Demand Occupations
Australia’s skills shortage spans numerous industries, but certain sectors are experiencing particularly high demand:
Healthcare Professionals: With an ageing population and expanding healthcare infrastructure, registered nurses, general practitioners, medical specialists, physiotherapists, and aged care workers are in critical demand. Healthcare professionals can expect competitive salaries, excellent working conditions, and numerous job opportunities across metropolitan and regional areas.
Information Technology: Australia’s digital transformation continues to accelerate, creating unprecedented demand for software developers, cybersecurity specialists, data analysts, IT project managers, and cloud architects. The tech sector offers some of the highest salaries and most flexible working arrangements.
Engineers: Civil engineers, mechanical engineers, electrical engineers, and mining engineers remain on priority lists. Major infrastructure projects across Australia ensure steady demand for engineering expertise.
Teachers and Education Professionals: Early childhood teachers, secondary teachers (especially in STEM subjects), and special education teachers are highly sought after as Australia invests heavily in education.
Trades and Construction: Electricians, plumbers, carpenters, and other tradespeople continue to be in high demand, particularly in regional areas experiencing growth.
The Skilled Occupation List (SOL) is regularly updated to reflect Australia’s evolving workforce needs. Your occupation must be on one of these lists (Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List – MTSSSL, Short-term Skilled Occupation List – STSOL, or Regional Occupation List – ROL) to be eligible for skilled migration.
What is the General Skilled Migration Australia Points Assessment System?
The General Skilled Migration (GSM) Points Assessment System is Australia’s merit-based scoring framework used to evaluate and rank skilled worker visa applications. It assigns points to candidates based on specific criteria that demonstrate their ability to contribute to Australia’s economy and successfully settle in the country.
Minimum Points Required:
- You need at least 65 points to be eligible to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) for visas like the 189, 190, or 491.
Australia Visa Requirements for Skilled Workers
- Age: You must be under 45 years old when you apply. Younger applicants usually receive higher points, improving their chances of selection.
- English Language Proficiency: You’ll need to prove your English ability by taking a test such as IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL. Higher scores not only demonstrate language fluency but also add more points to your application.
- Skills Assessment: A positive skills assessment from an approved authority is mandatory for most occupations. It confirms that your qualifications and work experience meet Australian standards.
- Occupation on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL): Your nominated job must appear on one of Australia’s occupation lists – MLTSSL (Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List), STSOL (Short-Term Skilled Occupation List), or ROL (Regional Occupation List).
- Health and Character Requirements: Applicants must undergo a medical examination and submit police clearance certificates to prove they are of good health and character.
- Points Requirement: You need at least 65 points to qualify, but higher scores greatly increase your chances of being invited. Points are awarded based on factors such as age, education, work experience, English skills, and state nomination.
If you have difficulty calculating your exact score, use our PR Points Calculator to check your points and see whether you are eligible for a skilled visa.
Step-by-Step Application Process Of General Skilled Migration Australia
1: Check Your Occupation
Australia doesn’t just want “engineers”; they want “Civil Engineers” or “Chemical Engineers.”
- Search the Skilled Occupation List to find your ANZSCO code.
- If your job is on the Short-term list, the 189 visa is off the table; look at the 190 or 491.
2: Get a Skills Assessment
Submit your qualifications and experience to the appropriate assessing authority for your occupation. This typically requires:
- Certified copies of qualifications
- Employment references and evidence
- English test results
3: Lodge an Expression of Interest (EOI)
Once you have a positive skills assessment, create an EOI through the SkillSelect system. This is not a visa application but an expression of your interest in migrating. The EOI:
Expert Australian Migration Guidance
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Book Consultation- Remains active for 2 years
- Can be updated if circumstances change
- Doesn’t guarantee an invitation
4: Lodge the Visa Application
Submit your complete application with all supporting documents:
- Identity documents
- Skills assessment
- English test results
- Employment evidence
- Educational qualifications
- Health examinations
- Police clearances
- Partner and dependent information
Choosing the Right Migration Agent
The Australian skilled migration process is complex, with frequent policy changes, state-specific requirements, and intricate documentation standards. This is where professional Australian migration agents become invaluable.
Benefits of Using Australian Migration Agents
Avoid Costly Mistakes: incorrect forms, missing documents, or inadequate evidence can result in refusals or significant delays. MARA-registered agents ensure your application meets all requirements the first time.
Navigate 2025-26 Changes: Migration policy evolves constantly. Agents stay current with the latest changes, ensuring your strategy aligns with current rules and maximising your chances of success.
Maximise Your Points: Experienced agents identify opportunities to increase your points score that you might overlook through strategic partner assessments, community language credentials, or optimal timing of applications.
Save Time and Stress: The migration process involves numerous steps across months or years. Agents handle the complexity, allowing you to focus on your career and family.
Represent You Professionally: If the Department requests additional information or clarification, agents craft professional responses that address concerns effectively.
Why Choose The Migration For General Skilled Migration Australia?
MARA Registration and Expertise: All our agents are registered with the Migration Agents Registration Authority (MARA), Australia’s regulatory body, ensuring professional standards and ethical conduct. This registration isn’t just a credential. It’s your protection, ensuring your agent is qualified, insured, and accountable.
Proven Track Record: We’ve successfully helped thousands of skilled professionals achieve their Australian dream. Our success stories span every occupation, from healthcare professionals and engineers to IT specialists and tradespeople.
Personalised Strategy: We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all approaches. Every client receives a customised migration strategy based on their unique circumstances, qualifications, and goals.
Transparent Process: We maintain clear communication throughout your journey, explaining each step, setting realistic expectations, and keeping you informed of progress.
Comprehensive Services: From initial eligibility assessment through skills assessment, EOI preparation, state nomination applications, and final visa lodgement, we support you at every stage.
Post-Visa Support: Our relationship doesn’t end when your visa is granted. We provide settlement advice, helping you and your family transition smoothly to life in Australia.
CONCLUSION
General Skilled Migration remains Australia’s most accessible pathway to permanent residency for qualified professionals in 2026. With 132,200 skilled migration places available and critical shortages across healthcare, IT, engineering, and trades, the opportunity has never been better, but neither has the competition.
Success requires more than just eligibility. You need strategic planning: maximising your points score, choosing the right visa subclass, timing your EOI submission perfectly, and presenting a flawless application. One mistake, such as a missing document, incorrect occupation code, or poorly structured skills assessment, can delay your dream by months or result in refusal.
The question isn’t whether you qualify. It’s whether you’re willing to navigate this complex process alone or partner with experts who’ve helped thousands achieve their Australian PR. Your future in Australia is within reach, but only if you take the first step today. Book your consultation with The Migration expert MARA agents and start your journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the general skilled migration visa?
It’s a visa program for skilled workers whose occupation is on Australia’s priority list. You apply based on a points system considering age, qualifications, work experience, and English ability. Main types are 189 (independent), 190 (state-nominated), and 491 (regional).
Which skilled visa is best for Australia?
189 lets you live anywhere in Australia but requires higher points. 190 gives you extra state points (making it easier to qualify), but you must live in that state for 2 years. Most applicants choose 190 because it’s more achievable.
Is it easy to get a PR in Australia in 2026?
No. Australia’s system has become more selective with the permanent intake at different places. Competition is intense, expect to need 80-95 points in most occupations, and poorly documented applications face delays or refusal.
Does submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI) mean I have applied for the visa?
When submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI) general skilled migration Australia, you don’t apply for a visa immediately. Instead, you declare your interest in specific skilled visas you want to be considered for.
In the EOI, you must clearly select which visa subclass(es) you wish to apply for, such as:
- Subclass 189 – Skilled Independent Visa
- Subclass 190 – Skilled Nominated Visa
- Subclass 491 – Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa
How do you qualify for general skilled migration in Australia?
You must have an occupation on the Skilled Occupation List, obtain a positive skills assessment, achieve minimum 65 points (though 80-90 needed for competitive occupations), meet English requirements, and be under 45. After submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect, you must receive an invitation before applying.
What occupations can apply for general skilled migration Australia?
Occupations on the Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) and state lists are eligible, including healthcare professionals, engineers, ICT specialists, skilled trades, and teachers. Each occupation must match specific ANZSCO codes and meet the required skill level for assessment.
How many points do I need for general skilled migration?
The minimum is 65 points to submit an EOI, but competitive occupations like IT and healthcare typically require 80-90 points for invitation. Points are based on age (max 30), English proficiency (max 20), work experience (max 20), qualifications, and other factors.
How can I apply for general skilled migration visas?
Complete your skills assessment, then submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect with all details and points claimed. Once invited by the Department of Home Affairs or a state/territory, you have 60 days to lodge your formal visa application.
How can I get extra points for general skilled migration?
Achieve Superior English for 20 points, obtain state nomination for 5-15 points, gain skilled work experience, complete a Professional Year (5 points), or earn NAATI credentials (5 points). Partner skills, Australian qualifications, and regional study also add valuable points to your total.
What if my occupation is not in demand in Australia?
Check state and territory occupation lists, which include additional occupations for regional nomination through Subclass 190 or 491 visas. Regional pathways provide extra points (15 points) and potentially faster processing, as regional areas have different skill shortages.
Who can apply for Skilled Migration visas?
Skilled workers under 45 with qualifications in eligible occupations, competent English, minimum 65 points, and passing health/character checks can apply. Applicants need a positive skills assessment and must be invited through SkillSelect before lodging their visa application.
How long does it take to apply for General Skilled Migration Australia visas?
About 53% of permanent skilled visas are finalised within 12 months, though times vary by occupation priority and application completeness. Skills assessment takes 3-4 months, with healthcare professionals receiving priority processing (2-3 months for visa processing in some cases).
