General Skilled Migration Visa

Are you looking to make Australia your new home?

The General Skilled Migration is the suitable route to your new home, as this program offers the most appropriate and official pathway to achieve your migration dreams. Once, former Prime Minister Tony Abbott aptly said:

“I think that people should come to Australia through the front door, not through the back door. If people want a migration outcome, they should go through the migration channels.”

The General Skilled Migration Program is the right migration channel for you!

The Australian Government has allocated a visa stream named the General Skilled Migration (GSM) program, designed for skilled international professionals who aspire to live and work in Australia. The GSM program was introduced to fill the skill shortage in Australia for eligible internationals. Through this program, people around the world can visit, stay, and work in Australia temporarily or even permanently, depending on certain conditions.

General Skilled Migration Visa is the most common way for skilled immigrants to migrate to Australia. The GSM program was introduced to fill the skill shortage in Australia for eligible internationals. Through this program, people around the world can visit, stay, and work in Australia temporarily or even permanently, depending on certain conditions.

The GSM program is categorised into three different subclasses, such as:

Subclass 189 – Independent Skilled Visa

Subclass 190 – Skilled Nominated Visa

Subclass 491 – Skilled Regional (Provisional) Visa

Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)

The skilled independent visa, known as Subclass 189, is a point-tested permanent visa stream for the workers whom the Australian Government invites, eligible (Overseas) citizens of New Zealand, Hong Kong, or British national passport holders withholding the required skills to live and work in any area of Australia.

Note: The Skilled Independent (subclass 189) visa under the New Zealand stream has been closed permanently to new applications since July 1, 2023.

Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)

The Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190) is a state nominated permanent visa stream for skilled migrants. It allows you to live and work in South Australia permanently if you meet the state nomination criteria or requirements. But to apply for this state nomination pathway, you must receive a nomination from the Australian state or territory government agency.

Skilled Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491)

The Skilled Work Regional Visa Subclass 491 is a temporary visa that is designed for skilled workers who wish to live and work in regional areas of Australia for almost a period of 5 years. For this stream, these skilled workers are required to be nominated by the state or territory government of Australia.

This visa stream also allows a PR pathway to Australia under certain conditions, such as:

You need to hold the Subclass 491 visa for at least three years.
You must comply with all visa conditions and meet your citizenship obligations during that period.
You or your partner should manifest a minimum annual income threshold for at least three years, which is currently set at $53,900.

After meeting the above-mentioned requirements, you might be eligible to apply for the Subclass 191 Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) visa, which will grant permanent residency in Australia.

Need Help? Book Your Appointment With Registered Migration Agent

Eligibility Criteria for the General Skilled Migration Visa Australia

The eligibility criteria play a crucial role in obtaining the General Skilled Migration (GSM) visa in Australia. So, it is very important to understand the skilled Visa Australia requirements and make sure the applicants have the skills and qualifications that are aligned with Australia’s economic needs.

Here’s a detailed overview of the key criteria the general skilled migrant visa applicants in Australia need to fulfil.

Occupation List: Applicants must have an occupation on the relevant skilled occupation list, which is essential because it defines that their profession is in demand in Australia. The occupation list reflects the areas where there is a need to fill the skill shortage gap within the Australian labour market. Being on this list means that your skills can contribute to the Australian economy and society.
Skill Assessment: After checking the occupation list and determining the eligibility criteria for the GSM program, it is important to do a positive skill assessment in your nominated occupation to make sure that your skills and qualifications are comparable to Australian standards. Generally, skill assessment is conducted by relevant assessing authorities to determine your eligibility to perform the occupation’s tasks in Australia.
Age Limit: Usually, the age limit for skilled visa Australia is between 18 and 45 years. This range is set to target individuals who are most likely to contribute for a longer period of time to the Australian workforce. However, the younger applicants are seen as being capable of offering more years of work than the older applicants, which is beneficial for the long-term economic growth of Australia
Point Test: The General Skilled Migration works on a point-based system that’s why applicants are selected based on their earned points. These points are based on many factors, like age, work experience, educational qualifications, and more.

Note: Meeting the above-mentioned criteria does not guarantee a General Skilled Migration visa but it is the first step in the application process to be eligible for the GSM program. You must try to obtain a high point score and be invited by the Australian Government to apply for the best chance of acceptance. Always refer to the latest information from the Australian Department of Home Affairs for the most recent requirements and procedures to follow.

Requirements for the General Skilled Migration Visa

The General Skilled Migration visa journey is more than visa application submission; it may urge you to provide solid financial plans to survive in Australia. All the migrants might need to provide evidence of sufficient funds to cover living expenses for themselves and any dependents in Australia.

The financial requirements for General Skilled Migration (GSM) visa applicants from Pakistan, Bangladesh, India, China, and Nepal are generally similar to those of applicants from other countries, But certain financial obligations may vary based on individual circumstances and the visa subclass they have applied for.

Here is a general idea of what might be required or general financial considerations for international applicants to General Skilled Migration:

Proof of Sufficient Funds for Settlement

In light of the financial requirements of general skilled migration, it is essential to ensure migrants have the necessary funds to support themselves or their dependents if they are in Australia. However, specific amounts may vary based on many factors, like country, family size, type of GSM visa, location in Australia, and more.

Note: The Department of Home Affairs provides detailed information and guidelines on the minimum funds required for this purpose.

Skilled Assessment Fees

Applicants withholding relevant skills should have a skill assessment before applying for the General Skilled Migration and pay for the skills assessment based on their nominated occupation. This may require submitting pay stubs, employment requirements, and other essential documents for verification.

Note: However, the skill assessment fee may be different depending on the assessing authority and the occupation that needs to be assessed.

Cost of a Language Test

Based on various categories of subclasses, applicants need to undergo an English language proficiency test to demonstrate their eligibility to apply for a general skilled migration visa in Australia. The test scores evaluate applicants’ abilities in reading, writing, speaking, and listening. Generally, accepted tests included IELTS (International English Language Testing System) or equivalent assessments.

Note: The cost of the language test may be different depending on the test type. Applicants must be aware of the expenses of their relevant tests.

Visa Application Fee

All visa applicants to General Skilled Migration Australia are obliged to pay the fee for their visa application. The exact amount varies based on many factors, like the visa subclass and the type of applicant, which includes both primary and dependent applicants.

Estimated Cost for a General Skilled Migration Visa Applicant

There is no specific government fee for lodging an expression of interest (EOI), but the expected charges that General Skilled Migration applicants need to pay while making a skilled visa application are:

Visa Subclass	Government Charges	Applicants Type
Skilled 189, 190, and 491	AU$ 4,640	Main visa applicant
Skilled 189, 190, and 491	AU$ 2,320	Spouse of the Main visa applicant
Skilled 189, 190, and 491	AU$ 1,160	Fee per child of the Main visa applicant

Health Insurance

The GSM applicants must provide evidence of suitable health insurance. It is the coverage of health-related expenses for themselves and any family members accompanying them during their stay in Australia. The cost of health insurance varies based on the type of medical test and examination required.

Necessary Health checks

General Skilled Migration applicants must undergo health examinations, which may include mandatory medical tests and assessments as determined by the Australian Department of Home Affairs. They are detailed in the Request for Health Examination letter, including a Health Examinations List (HAP ID). The outcomes of the specific health examinations that need to be attached are necessary for booking the appointments. These health checks are designed to ensure applicants do not pose a public health risk and meet Australian health standards.

Character Certificate

It is compulsory for candidates to demonstrate good character before applying for a general skilled migration visa in Australia. The applicant must provide a character certificate that indicates they have not been involved in any criminal offences in the past. This is one of the most important factors that the Department of Home Affairs considers before making a decision regarding the approval of Australian visas. Under Section 501 of the Migration Act 1958, the department will assess the candidate’s criminal activity record and approve a visa if they provide a police clearance certificate.

Need Help? Book Your Appointment With Registered Migration Agent

What is a Point Test for the General Skilled Migration Program?

The points test for the General Skilled Migration (GSM) program in Australia is a system through which visa applicants are evaluated based on several factors, including age, English language proficiency, skilled employment experience, and educational qualifications.

The below mentioned factors contribute to the points score for the General Skilled Migration (GSM) program in Australia in the following ways:

Age: Some points are given based on the age bracket you fall into at the time of receiving an invitation to apply for the GSM visa.
English Language Proficiency: These points may vary depending on your level of English language skills or type of English language test.
Skilled Employment Experience: Both Australian and overseas work experiences in a nominated or closely related occupation can help you to earn good points.
Educational Qualifications: The level of your highest educational qualification (educational background), relevant to your nominated occupation, also contributes to your points.
Australian Study Requirement: Getting your qualifications completed in Australia can also increase the chance of earning the highest points.
Specialist Education Qualification: A Master’s degree by research or a Doctorate degree from an Australian educational institution or university that includes at least two academic years in a relevant field can help you get maximum points.
Other Factors: Other factors, like credentialed community language qualifications, study in regional Australia, partner skills, and professional years in Australia, might have a powerful impact on securing good points for you.

What are the Minimum Points Required for the General Skilled Migration Visa Australia?

The minimum points required to be eligible for an invitation from the Australian Government to apply for the GSM program is 65. Although scoring higher points than the required one can increase the chances of being invited to apply for skilled visa opportunities in Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, and other areas of Australia. It is important to note that the points test is always subject to change.

That’s why applicants should always refer to the recent updates and information from the Australian Department of Home Affairs.

Application Process for the General Skilled Migration Program

Generally, the application process for the General Skilled Migration (GSM) program in Australia contains the following essential steps:

Check Eligibility: The first and foremost step is to verify that your occupation is on the relevant Skilled Occupation List (SOL) or Consolidated Sponsored Occupation List (CSOL) and check that you meet other eligibility criteria such as age, English language proficiency test score, and qualifications.

Skills Assessment: The second step is to obtain a positive skill assessment from the relevant Australian assessing authority (Trade Recognition Authority, TRA) for your nominated and skilled in-demand occupation. Try to meet the minimum points that are required.

Find a Sponsor If Required: If your General Skilled Migration visa application requires sponsorship, you must find a suitable sponsor. It is crucial for the specific visa subclasses that require sponsorship, such as the Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190) or the Skilled Employer-Sponsored Regional (provisional) visa (subclass 494). Beyond this, employers, state or territory governments, or eligible family members can take on sponsorship in various forms.

Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI): After obtaining a suitable skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority for your nominated occupation, you need to submit an expression of interest (EOI) through the SkillSelect online system. You must submit relevant details about your skills, work experience, education, English language proficiency, and other relevant information.

Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA): When your EOI scores are high enough and you are selected, you will receive an invitation to apply for the ITA for a visa. You will have 60 days to lodge a formal application. ITAs are issued to those candidates who have obtained the highest points scores in their occupation group during regular SkillSelect invitation rounds.

Lodging a Visa Application: Once you submit the expression of interest (EOI), applicants must gather all required documents, including identity documents, skills assessments, proof of English language proficiency score tests, health examinations, character certificates, and more. You are required to complete the online visa application form appropriately and provide all necessary information regarding your GSM application.

Pay the Visa Application Fee: Once you have submitted the GSM online visa application form, the next important step is to pay the required visa application fee. For this purpose, you need to log into your ImmiAccount and locate your visa application. Use your application details to find a suitable option to pay the visa application fee. These options might be labelled “Pay Now” or “Pay Visa Fee” and make the payments accordingly.

Wait for Visa Outcomes: After the submission of your General Skilled Migration visa application, you have to wait for the final decision from the Department of Home Affairs. All applicants need to be patient, as visa processing may take time. Though the GSM visa processing times may be different depending on the type of visa and other factors like nationality and the visa application, as well as whether it is completed appropriately. You can check your visa application status on ImmiAccount while waiting for the final visa decision.

Note: You are required to update or make any necessary adjustments to your visa application in the event of changes to your contact number, email address, personal identification details, marital status, and more.

Need Help? Book Your Appointment With Registered Migration Agent

General Skilled Migration Post-Application Process

Once your GSM visa application has been submitted, the next step is the post-application process, which may involve the following steps:

Acknowledgment of Receipt: After the application submission, you will receive confirmation that your application has been submitted successfully.

Application Assessment: Then your application will be reviewed to ensure your eligibility for a relevant visa and the completeness of your application.

Health and Character Checks: You may need to complete mandatory health examinations and provide character certifications.

Visa Decision: After a thorough assessment, the Department of Home Affairs will decide on your visa application.

Notification: You will be informed about the results of your GSM visa application and whether it has been granted or refused.

Occupation Lists & their Importance in GSM Visa Program

Occupation lists are like a VIP guest list or a country’s job market. It plays a key role in Australia’s General Skilled Migration (GSM) program. It helps skilled immigrants and the government determine skill shortages within the economy.

This list is a curated collection of professions that are given the red carpet treatment as they are in high demand in Australia, through which internationally skilled individuals can contribute to the economy and fill gaps in their workforce in Australia.

Various Categories of Skilled Occupation List

Occupation lists are categorised into three forms, each of which plays an essential role in helping the Australian Government to manage the flow of skilled workers to meet labour market demands and the migrants. This list helps them to identify which occupations are in demand and eligible for skilled migration. These occupation lists include:

Skilled Occupation List (SOL): This list outlines the occupations that are required to fill the gap in skill shortages in Australia. This is used for independent and non-sponsored skilled visas in Australia.

Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL): This list contains the occupations that are in high demand over the long term across Australia. This occupation list is used for various visa categories, including the skilled independent visa (subclass 189).

Short-term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL): This occupation list includes occupations that are in demand in various states and territories of Australia for a shorter period of time. More specifically, it is essential for state-nominated occupations.

The Migration: An Authentic Migration & Visa Consulting Service Provider

If you are skilled enough and looking for the best employment opportunities in an international environment, this stream will be a suitable option for you!

The Migration is an Australian-based registered company that provides outstanding opportunities to migrate, work, and live in Australia. We have a dedicated team of migration agents and visa consultants available to assist you in your visa application. Our migration agents are valuable resources for you in your migration journey.

Here’s how we can help you in the process of obtaining a General Skilled Migration (GSM) visa.

Eligibility Assessment: They will assist you in evaluating your eligibility to make sure you meet the eligibility criteria for a GSM visa, including the points test and occupation eligibility, as well as guide you through the skill assessment by an authorised assessing authority for your occupation.

Provide Advice on Visa Options: Our professional migration agent will provide you with expert advice and relevant information on the most appropriate visa options based on your skills, qualifications, and circumstances.

Expression of Interest (EOI): They help you to lodge an EOI, which is essential as it determines your chances of receiving an invitation to apply for your prior GSM visa in Australia. The EOI needs to be well-prepared, especially for competitive professions in the Australian skilled occupation list.

Whether lodging a GSM visa application or preparing a document, our dedicated team will let you experience an error-free application process.

Book Your Appointment to Get a One-Stop-Shop Solution!

As NSW Skilled Migration has changed some policies this year, our experienced migration agent will share these updates to help you make a wise decision. Whether it’s a matter of up-to-date migration updates or the nomination process, Migration is your one-stop-shop solution. If you want to know more about the General Skilled Migration program, visit our website. When it comes to attaining a higher-demand occupation and a faster nomination, we will help you get selected.

Need Help? Book Your Appointment With Registered Migration Agent

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: 1: What are the recent changes to Australia’s Skilled Independent (subclass 189) visa?

According to the new changes, the New Zealand stream of the Skilled Independent (subclass 189) visa has been permanently closed to applications from primary applicants as of July 1, 2023. This is to support the new direct pathway to Australian citizenship for New Zealand citizens.

Q:2: How is the General Skilled Migration Program (2023–24) structured in South Australia?

South Australia has moved to a Registration of Interest (ROI) process to manage strong demand from potential applicants living and working in the state against a limited allocation of nomination places. This means that potential applicants should submit an ROI and be invited by the state to apply for state nominations in South Australia.

Q: 3: What is the focus of South Australia for General Skilled Migration Programs 2023–2024?

They prioritise international graduates, temporary visa holders, and experienced overseas workers with high-demand skills in South Australia, such as trade and construction, defence, health, education, natural and physical science, and social and welfare.

Q:4: What is the age limit for GSM visas?

Generally, you must be under 45 years old at the time you receive an invitation to apply for GSM visas.

Q: 5: What are the new changes in the points-tested component of the Skilled Independent Visa category 2023–24?

According to the new changes, the allocation for the points-tested component increased from 25,600 places in 2022–23 to 30,175 places in 2023–24.