Current Skilled Visa Processing Time for Australia | Migrate to Australia

Each year, Australia undergoes some frequent updates in immigration policies to address increasing economic, social, and political needs. Similarly, skilled visa processing time is always subject to change. Recently, the Australian Government changed its migration strategy from 2023-24 to start in 2024 to strengthen the integrity and quality of Australia’s international education. 

Further, the government of Australia has also committed to a median processing time of 21 days for most visa applications to streamline the process for faster decision-making. So, if you are looking forward to applying for your prior skilled visa, you must know the current skilled visa processing time. Being aware of new updates and any recent changes will help you comply with the latest requirements and reduce the risk of rejection or delays.

Are you considering a move to Australia in 2024? In this blog, we will dive into the current skilled visa processing times together and learn how you can reduce the waiting time. Plus, I will share with you essential tips to follow that will be helpful in your skilled visa application process.

Before a deep dive, let’s take a look at some of the skilled visa categories available in Australia:

Different Skilled Visa Categories Available in Australia

Whenever someone thinks about moving abroad, Australia is among the first livable countries to come to mind. Apart from stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, and a higher-standard lifestyle, Australia has a lot to offer, such as Australian visas, migration, and PR options. General Skilled Migration is one of the prestigious visa options designed to attract skilled migrants worldwide. 

Australia has designed the following visa categories under the General Skilled Migration Program, allowing international skilled individuals to live and work in Australia temporarily or permanently:

• Independent Skilled Visa (subclass 189)
• Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190)
• Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (subclass 491)

How You Can Live and Work Anywhere in Australia with Skilled Visas?

As you know, Australia is constantly changing its migration policies and skilled visa application processing strategies. According to the new migration strategy 2023-24, skilled visa holders can live and work permanently anywhere in Australia, with the exception of the Northern Territory.

• The Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) is a points-tested visa, an attractive skilled visa option for skilled workers that lets them build a new life and career in Australia. Under this stream, if you meet certain residency requirements, you can also apply for Australian citizenship. 

• The Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190) is a state-nominated permanent visa that nominates skilled migrants to live and work in Australia permanently (if they meet the state nomination criteria or requirements). They must receive a nomination from the Australian state or territory government agency to apply for this state nomination pathway.

• The Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (Subclass 491) allows skilled individuals to live and work in designated regional areas of Australia for up to five years. After completing your stay and work experience in an Australian regional area, it also offers a permanent residency pathway. 

What is the Current Skilled Visa Processing Time in 2024?

Skilled visa processing time may vary based on visa type and the applicant’s unique circumstances. However, here are the current and latest estimated processing times for skilled visa Australia:  

When does your Application Processing Time Start?

Australian skilled visa processing starts when the Department of Home Affairs receives the complete application. This means submitting all necessary documents and valid information for the application to be considered complete. So, ensure you have submitted all necessary documents and information per the visa requirements. 

Note: Incomplete applications can lead to delays in the completion of processing time.

Once your application is completed, the Department of Home Affairs will send you an acknowledgment. This is where your skilled visa processing time starts.  

Each skilled visa application is assessed case by case or individually, and processing times can vary based on several factors, including the type of visa, the volume of applications, and any additional checks required.

How to Track Your Current Visa Processing Time for Visa Application ?

If you want to track your processing time for a skilled visa application, follow the given steps. However, application tracking can be different depending on the type of application and organization.

Step 1 Check the Confirmation Email: You must check your email regularly, as most organizations send a confirmation email with a tracking number or a link to track your application status.

Step 2: Visit the Official Website: Visit the official website of the organization where you submitted your skilled visa application. Check out sections like “Track Application” or “Application Status.”

Step 3: Use the tracking ID: Enter the tracking ID or application number provided when submitting the application. This tracking number is often sent via confirmation email or receipt.

Step 4 Contact Customer Support: If you need help finding the tracking information online, contact the organization’s customer support for assistance.

What are the Circumstances that Can Affect Skilled Visa Processing Time?

Several factors can influence the processing time of your skilled visa application. Here are some critical circumstances that can affect the skilled visa processing time in Australia:

• If you submit incomplete or incorrect applications, it can cause delays or take longer to process, as additional information or corrections may be required.  
• If you miss or submit insufficient supporting documents, it can also slow down the skilled visa application process.   
• The high demand for occupation in the host country can also impact the processing time of skilled visas. 
• The demand for the applicant’s occupation in the destination country can impact processing times. High-demand occupations might be processed faster.
• Extensive security, health, and background checks can also lead to longer processing times, especially if there are complexities or issues found in the application that need to be resolved. 
• High volumes of applications can also lead to longer processing times due to the increased workload on immigration authorities.

Tips to Improve Skilled Visa Processing Time in Australia

• Understand all the requirements of skilled visa applications. 
• Submit a complete application and accurate information. 
• Apply as early as possible so that your application can be processed promptly.
• Keep an eye on your application status and respond promptly to the request for any further information or documentation required by the Department of Home Affairs.  
• Stay updated about any changes that may take place in immigration policies or processing time that may affect your skilled visa processing time.

Get in Touch with an Expert Registered Migration Agent for Professional Assistance!

If you are looking to move to Australia and work in a skilled position and need help with the application processing time, there is no need to look around. Count on our best MARA agent, Sydney. He will provide you with guidance and support for your skilled visa application. With years of experience and in-depth knowledge of immigration laws, he will give you personalized assistance and an expert opinion for your specific situation. 

Let us be your one-stop visa agent and fly you and move to Australia, your desired destination. Trust in us; we will be your helping hands. 

Book an appointment now!