Specialist Skills Pathway (Skills in Demand Visa)

 

The Specialist Skills Pathway is a part of Australia’s Skills in Demand Visa. It is designed to attract highly skilled and talented workers from around the world. 

 

So, if you are considering this opportunity, you might wonder about the

 

• What are the eligibility requirements for the Specialist Skills Pathway?
• How long does it take to process the visa application?
• Can family members be included in the visa application?

 

In this blog, you will learn the detailed answers to these questions. Moreover, you will get to know the application process, costs, and conditions associated with the Specialist Skills Pathway. 

 

What is a Specialist Skills Pathway (Skills in Demand Visa)?

A specialist skills pathway is designed for highly skilled workers. Under this pathway, you can work for your sponsoring employer in Australia for up to 4 years (or 5 years if you hold a Hong Kong passport).

 

You can travel in and out of Australia as much as you want while your visa is valid. Moreover, you can apply for permanent residency if you meet certain requirements.

 

How much does it cost to apply for a specialist skills pathway in Australia?

The visa costs AUD 3,115 for the main applicant and AUD 780 for each dependent child  18. You may also have to pay additional charges for English tests, health checks, and police certificates.

 

Can I include my family members?

Yes, you can include family members like your partner and dependent children in your visa application. They must meet certain requirements and be included when you apply.

 

How long does it take to process the specialist skills pathway application?

Processing times can vary based on individual circumstances. It usually takes around 21 days, but it may take longer if more information is needed.

 

What are the work conditions?

You must follow all visa conditions and Australian laws. You need to start working within 90 days of entering  Australia or from the date your visa is granted.

 

Moreover, you must work only in the job you were nominated for and only for the employer who sponsored you. Your family members can also live, study, and work in Australia while on this visa.

 

Eligibility Criteria to Apply for Specialist Skills Pathway

To be eligible for this pathway, you must meet the following requirements:

 

• You must be nominated to work in an occupation listed under the Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO) in Major Groups 1, 2, 4, 5, or 6. Your salary must meet the Specialist Skills Income threshold.

 

• You must have at least 1 year of relevant work experience in your nominated occupation or a related field.

 

• You must have a relevant skills assessment to prove you have the necessary qualifications for certain occupations. 

 

• You can only work for your sponsoring employer or an associated entity unless you qualify for an exemption.

 

• You must meet minimum English language requirements unless you are exempt from demonstrating this requirement.

 

• You must be of good moral character and in good health position to apply for this visa stream. You can demonstrate this visa medical examination and police clearance certificate. 

 

These criteria ensure that you can contribute effectively to the Australian workforce while addressing labour shortages in specific industries.

 

How to Apply for Specialist Skills Pathway (Subclass 482) in Australia?

To apply for this specialist skills pathway, follow this step-by-step process:

 

• Step 1: Things to do before you apply (checking eligibility)
• Step 2: Gather your required documents.
• Step 3: Apply for the desired stream (specialist skills pathway).
• Step 4: Things to do after you apply for the visa.
• Step 5: Wait for the visa outcome.

 

Here is a brief description of each of these steps.

 

Things to Do Before You Apply for Specialist Skills Pathway

Before you start your application for the Specialist Skills pathway, there are several important steps you need to take:

 

• Nomination: You must have a job offer from an employer in Australia who will sponsor you.

 

• Passport: Make sure your passport is valid and has enough time left before it expires.

 

• Skills Assessment: Depending on your job, you may need to get a skills assessment to prove that you have the right qualifications and experience for the position.

 

• English Exams: You will likely need to take an English proficiency test, such as IELTS or TOEFL, to show that you can communicate effectively in English.

 

• Arrange Health Exams: You may need to undergo a health examination to ensure you meet Australia’s health requirements.

 

If you need any help with your application, contact us at The Migration and get professional assistance. 

 

Step 2: Gather Your Documents

Once you’ve checked the eligibility criteria, the next step is to gather and organise all the required documents.  Here are some of the required documents that you need to submit to apply for the specialist skills pathway:

 

• Identity documents, including a passport or birth certificate.
• Skills and occupation documents showing your qualifications and work experience.
• English language proficiency documents.
• Health insurance proof for your stay in Australia.
• Character documents, including police clearance certificates.
• Partner documents (if applicable).
• Documents for children under 18 who are migrating with you. 
• Documents for depedentants over 18 who are applying with you. 

 

Make sure you provide all the information is accurate and complete. 

 

Step 3: Apply for the Visa

After organising and gathering all the required documents, the next step is to apply for the desired visa. For this purpose, follow these steps:

 

• Log in or create an account on the ImmiAccount website.
• Download the application form and fill out the required information. 
• Upload and attach all the required documents that support your application.
• You must pay the visa application fee before the Department of Home Affairs processes your application. 
• Each family member applying must pay their own application fee and attach their documents.
• Pay the visa application fee and submit your application.

 

Step 4: Things to Do After You Apply

Once you’ve submitted your application, you will receive confirmation that the Department of Home Affairs has received your application and documents. You can check the status of your application at any time.

 

If needed, you may be asked to complete health exams or provide biometrics. If there are any mistakes on your application, let the DHA know as soon as possible. Moreover, if anything changes in your situation (like a new job offer or address change), inform the department right away.

 

Step 5: Wait for the Visa Outcome

You can be either inside or outside Australia when the department decides on your visa application. If your visa application is successful and approved by the authorities, you will receive an email confirming your visa grant. The confirmation email states the following points:

 

• Your visa grant number.
• The start and expiry dates of your visa.
• Any conditions attached to your visa. 

 

However, in case your application is refused or rejected, the department will notify you about the visa refusal and the reasons leading to that decision. Moreover, you will also be informed about whether you have the right to appeal against the decision. 

 

Final Thoughts

So, by now, you have understood the basics of the specialist skills pathway (skills in demand visa). This blog has provided an overview of the eligibility criteria, required documents, application process, visa cost and processing time.

 

Still confused and don’t know whether you are eligible for this stream or not? Contact us at The Migration for professional assistance. We’ll help you at every step of the immigration process.

 

 

Related Articles:

• Core Skills Stream (Skills in Demand Visa Subclass 482)
• Australia New Skills in Demand Visa in 2024

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is there a pathway to permanent residency via the specialist skills pathway?

Yes, the specialist skills pathway offers a clear path to permanent residency for successful visa holders, allowing them to settle in Australia long-term.

 

Who is eligible to apply for the Specialist Skills Pathway?

To be eligible, applicants must be nominated by an approved employer and earn a minimum salary of AUD 135,000 / year. They should also have at least 12 months of relevant work experience and meet health and character requirements.