Skilled Visa Stream: Matching Talent with Opportunity in Australia
The Skilled Visa stream connects highly skilled workers with key occupations that face critical shortages across Australia. While some occupations are in demand nationwide, the Australian government is increasingly directing skilled migrants to specific regions, ensuring that local economies thrive and visa holders are placed where job opportunities are abundant.
Choosing the right visa can significantly impact where you live and work, as well as your residency status. To make the best decision, we highly recommend completing our visa eligibility assessment. We’ll help you explore your options and guide you to the ideal visa for your circumstances.
Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)
Permanent Residency
To be eligible for this visa, you need to have qualifications and experience in a high-demand occupation listed on the Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL). You must undergo a skills assessment and meet the minimum points threshold of 65—though a higher score is often required due to competition. Certain professions may also require registration in Australia. With a 189 visa, you can live and work in Australia permanently and seek employment freely.
Wondering if the 189 is right for you?
Although highly sought after, this visa can be difficult to obtain. We can assess your options and likelihood of success.
Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)
Permanent Residency
This visa is for individuals with skills in demand who are nominated by a State or Territory government. In addition to the Points Test and other requirements, state sponsorship provides additional points. Each state releases an annual State Migration Plan, detailing the occupations in demand. Successful applicants must commit to working in the sponsoring state for a specified period.
Is the 190 visa a fit for you?
While more occupations qualify for the 190, eligibility remains stringent. Let us review your case and provide guidance.
Skilled Recognised Graduate (Subclass 476)
Provisional Residency
If you’re under 30 and have completed an engineering degree from a ‘specified institution’ within the last two years, you might be eligible for the subclass 476 visa. This visa grants 18 months of work and residency rights, allowing you to explore opportunities in Australia. While it cannot be extended, it can be a stepping stone to applying for other visas.
Are you an engineering graduate?
If you meet the criteria, this visa could be your gateway to Australia. Let us confirm your eligibility.
Skilled Regional Sponsored Visa (Subclass 491)
Provisional Residency
While labour shortages exist in Australian cities, the need is often even greater in regional and rural areas. With a 491 visa, you can be sponsored by a State, Territory government, or an eligible Australian relative living in a designated area. This sponsorship grants you 15 additional points. The visa is valid for five years and may lead to permanent residency, but it comes with conditions—primarily a requirement to live and work in regional Australia.
Thinking about a regional move?
The 491 visa can be a pathway to permanent residency.
Skilled Regional Visa (Subclass 887)
Permanent Residency
This visa offers a path to permanent residency for those who have held eligible visas like subclasses 491, 495, 496, 475, 487, or Bridging Visas A or B. After meeting all work and residency requirements for two years in the designated region, the 887 visa allows you to settle permanently in Australia.
