Understanding Australian PR for Skilled Workers

Australia offers Permanent Residency (PR) to skilled workers through various visa subclasses, primarily under the General Skilled Migration (GSM) program. The most common visas include:​

• Subclass 189 – Skilled Independent Visa: For skilled workers not sponsored by an employer, state, or family member.

• Subclass 190 – Skilled Nominated Visa: Requires nomination by an Australian state or territory.

• Subclass 491 – Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa: For skilled workers willing to live and work in regional Australia.​

These visas allow individuals to live, work, and study in Australia permanently, with access to healthcare and other benefits.​

Eligibility Criteria for Skilled Migration

To qualify for skilled migration, applicants must meet specific criteria:

• Age: Under 45 years at the time of invitation.

• Occupation: Must be on the relevant Skilled Occupation List (SOL).

• English Proficiency: Demonstrate competent English through tests like IELTS or PTE.

• Points Test: Achieve a minimum of 65 points based on factors like age, education, work experience, and language skills.​

Step 1: Skill Assessment

A positive skill assessment is crucial. It verifies that your qualifications and experience align with Australian standards. Each occupation has a designated assessing authority, such as Engineers Australia for engineers or VETASSESS for various professions.

Process:

1. Identify the appropriate assessing authority for your occupation.

2. Submit required documents, including educational credentials and work experience.

3. Pay the assessment fee.

4. Await the assessment outcome.

A positive assessment is valid for a specific period, typically three years.​

Step 2: Expression of Interest (EOI)

Submit an EOI through the SkillSelect online system. This indicates your interest in applying for a skilled visa. You’ll provide details about your skills, qualifications, and other relevant information.​

Points Test:

Your EOI will be ranked based on the points test. Points are awarded for:​

• Age

• English language ability

• Skilled employment experience

• Educational qualifications

• Australian study requirements

• Other factors like partner skills and community language skills​

Step 3: Receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA)

If your EOI ranks high enough, you’ll receive an ITA. This invitation allows you to apply for a skilled visa. You must apply within 60 days of receiving the ITA.​

Step 4: Submitting the PR Application

After receiving the ITA:

1. Gather necessary documents, including identity proofs, skill assessment results, English test scores, and employment references.

2. Complete the visa application form online.

3. Pay the visa application fee.

4. Submit the application within the stipulated timeframe.

Step 5: Health and Character Requirements

Applicants must undergo health examinations to ensure they meet Australia’s health standards. Additionally, police clearance certificates from all countries where you’ve lived for 12 months or more in the past 10 years are required.​

Step 6: Visa Grant and Initial Entry

Once your application is approved, you’ll receive your visa grant notice. It will specify the date by which you must make your initial entry into Australia. Ensure you adhere to this timeline to activate your visa.​

Step 7: Pathway to Citizenship

After holding a PR visa and residing in Australia for a specific period, you may be eligible to apply for citizenship. Requirements include:​

• Living in Australia for at least four years, with at least one year as a permanent resident.

• Demonstrating good character.