Skilled Visa
Skilled Visa Australia: Your Complete Guide to Skilled Migration
Australia’s skilled visa program is one of the most popular immigration pathways for qualified professionals looking to live and work in the country. With a high standard of living, strong economy, and growing demand for skilled talent, Australia continues to attract thousands of applicants each year under its Skilled Migration Program.
In this guide, we’ll break down the different types of skilled visas, eligibility requirements, application process, and benefits of migrating to Australia as a skilled worker.
What Is a Skilled Visa?
A skilled visa is a type of Australian visa that allows qualified workers to migrate based on their skills, education, and work experience. These visas are designed to fill skill shortages in the Australian labor market and support economic growth.
Skilled visas are points-tested and usually require applicants to have an occupation listed on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL).
Types of Skilled Visas in Australia
There are several skilled visa options available depending on your circumstances:
189 Visa – Skilled Independent Visa
Permanent visa
No sponsor or state nomination required
Based purely on points test
Ideal for highly qualified, independent applicants
190 Visa – Skilled Nominated Visa
Permanent visa
Requires state or territory nomination
Applicants must commit to living and working in that state
491 Visa – Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa
Temporary visa (up to 5 years)
Requires nomination by a regional state or sponsorship by an eligible relative in a regional area
Leads to permanent residency via the 191 visa
Employer Sponsored Visas (e.g., 186, 482)
Require a job offer from an approved Australian employer
Can be temporary or permanent, depending on the visa subclass
Skilled Visa Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for a skilled visa, applicants typically must:
Be under 45 years of age
Have an occupation on the Skilled Occupation List
Obtain a positive skills assessment from a relevant authority
Score at least 65 points on the points test
Demonstrate competent English proficiency
Meet health and character requirement
Points Test for Skilled Visas
Points are awarded based on:
Age
English language ability
Work experience (in Australia and overseas)
Educational qualifications
Australian study or regional study
Partner skills
NAATI accreditation (community language)
Higher points = better chances of receiving an invitation.
How to Apply for a Skilled Visa
Check your occupation on the relevant Skilled Occupation List
Obtain a skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority
Complete an English language test (e.g., IELTS, PTE)
Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) via SkillSelect
Receive an invitation to apply
Lodge your visa application within 60 days
Complete health and police checks
Skilled Visa Processing Time
Processing times vary by visa subclass and application quality:
189 Visa: 4–8 months
190 Visa: 5–10 months
491 Visa: 6–12 months
Benefits of a Skilled Visa
Once granted, a skilled visa can offer:
Permanent residency (for 189 & 190 visas)
Work and study rights in Australia
Access to Medicare (public healthcare)
The ability to sponsor family members
A pathway to Australian citizenship
Tips for a Successful Skilled Visa Application
Be proactive in collecting all required documentation
Keep improving your points score (e.g., via English tests, partner points)
Consider state-nominated options if you're not receiving an invitation
Use a registered migration agent for complex cases
Final Thoughts
The skilled visa program is a fantastic opportunity for qualified professionals to build a successful future in Australia. Whether you apply independently or with state sponsorship, having the right skills and meeting the eligibility criteria is key.
Need help navigating your skilled visa options?
Speak to a migration expert to boost your points, improve your eligibility, and lodge a strong application.
