What Is Skilled Migration?
Australia’s General Skilled Migration (GSM) program is a points-based system designed to attract skilled workers to fill labor shortages. International graduates who have studied in Australia are well-positioned to apply for skilled migration after obtaining relevant work experience.
Skilled Independent
A permanent visa for skilled workers not sponsored by an employer, state, or family member. You must have an occupation on the MLTSSL and score 65+ points.
✓Permanent residency
✓Live and work anywhere in Australia
✓No sponsorship needed
✓Points-tested
Skilled Nominated
A permanent visa for skilled workers nominated by a state or territory government. Requires a commitment to live in the nominating state for at least 2 years.
✓Permanent residency
✓State nomination = 5 bonus points
✓Faster processing than 189
✓Must live in nominating state
Skilled Work Regional
A provisional visa for skilled workers nominated by a state or sponsored by an eligible family member living in a designated regional area. Pathway to PR after 3 years.
✓5-year provisional visa
✓15 bonus points for nomination
✓Pathway to 191 PR visa
✓Must live and work in regional area
Points Test System
You need at least 65 points to be eligible. Points are awarded for:
| Factor | Maximum Points | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Age (25–32) | 30 | Maximum points for this age bracket |
| English (Superior) | 20 | IELTS 8.0 or equivalent |
| Skilled Employment | 20 | 8+ years overseas or Australian experience |
| Qualifications (PhD) | 20 | Doctorate from recognized institution |
| Australian Study | 5 | 2+ years of study in Australia |
| Regional Study | 5 | Study in a designated regional area |
| Partner Skills | 10 | Partner meets age, English, and skills criteria |
| State Nomination (190) | 5 | Nominated by a state/territory |
| Regional Nomination (491) | 15 | Nominated for regional visa |
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