Australia offers a welcoming path for skilled workers to live and work through its Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190) and Skilled Work Regional Visa (subclass 491). These visas are designed to attract individuals with the skills needed in various Australian regions, providing permanent residency opportunities. Here’s an in-depth look at these visa options and what you need to know to apply.
Understanding the Visa Options
Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190)
The subclass 190 visa is a direct pathway to permanent residency in Australia. This visa is ideal for individuals who meet the skilled requirements and wish to settle permanently. The key features include:
- Permanent Residency
Grants immediate permanent residency, allowing you to live, work, and study anywhere within the nominated state. - Points System
The points test is a system used by the Australian government to evaluate and rank applicants for certain skilled migration visas. It is designed to select migrants who have the skills and qualifications needed in Australia. The points test assigns a score based on various factors such as age, language proficiency, education to name a few, 4 and applicants must meet a minimum points (65) threshold to be eligible for a visa.
Skilled Work Regional Visa (subclass 491)
The subclass 491 visa is a temporary visa leading to permanent residency after a minimum of three years, provided certain conditions are met. It’s suitable for those willing to live and work in regional areas. Key aspects include:
- Temporary Residency
Initially grants a temporary stay, with the opportunity to transition to permanent residency through the subclass 191 visa. - Regional Commitment
Requires residence in designated regional areas, encompassing most of Australia outside major cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane. - Points System
Offers an additional 15 points for state nomination, aiding applicants in reaching the required 65-point threshold.
Key Considerations and Advantages
- Pathway to Permanent Residency
The subclass 190 visa offers a more straightforward path to permanent residency, making it highly desirable. However, it is also more competitive. - Living Flexibility
Subclass 190 visa holders can reside anywhere within the nominated state, while subclass 491 visa holders are restricted to regional areas, which could limit immediate access to specific career opportunities. - Points Boost
The 491 visa’s 15 additional points can be crucial for applicants needing to boost their points total, particularly if they lack other criteria like advanced work experience or qualifications.
The Application Process
- Expression of Interest (EOI)
Submit an EOI through the SkillSelect platform, indicating your preferred state or territory and visa type. Your EOI must reflect your skills, experience, and qualifications. - State Nomination
Each state or territory has specific requirements and occupations in demand. They assess EOIs and nominate candidates based on their needs. - Invitation to Apply
If your EOI is selected, you will receive an invitation to apply for the visa. This invitation is crucial as it allows you to apply for the visa formally. - Skills Assessment
A positive skills assessment in your nominated occupation is mandatory. This assessment verifies your qualifications and experience against Australian standards.
State-Specific Criteria and Allocations
Each state and territory has its criteria for nominating candidates. Here’s a brief overview:
Queensland
- Graduate Pathway
Open to recent graduates with qualifications from a Queensland university. - Skilled Workers
Requires evidence of working in Queensland in your nominated occupation. - Small Business Owners
Includes specific criteria for those operating businesses in regional Queensland.
New South Wales (NSW)
- Target Sectors
Prioritises occupations in health, education, ICT, infrastructure, and agriculture. - Two Pathways
Applicants can either apply directly or wait for an invitation from Investment NSW, the latter of which is highly competitive.
Victoria
- Commitment to State
Applicants must commit to living in Victoria, supported by a Registration of Interest and a valid skills assessment.
Western Australia (WA)
- Open to Interstate and Overseas Applicants
Focuses on industries like building and construction. WA uses the Western Australia Skilled Migration Occupation List (WASMOL) to determine eligible occupations.
Australian Capital Territory (ACT)
- Canberra Residents
Applicants must live and work in Canberra, meeting specific residence and employment duration criteria.
South Australia
- General Requirements
It includes a skills assessment and a minimum points score. South Australia’s Skilled Occupation List guides eligible occupations.
Tasmania
- Multiple Pathways
Offers various routes, including skilled employment, graduate, and business operator pathways. Each pathway has specific criteria, such as work experience and study requirements.
Northern Territory (NT)
- Living in NT
Generally, residence in NT is required, with additional criteria for recent graduates and other residents. NT prioritizes occupations listed on its Offshore Migration Occupation List for overseas applicants.
Choosing between the subclass 190 and 491 visas involves considering your occupation, points score, and lifestyle preferences, especially regarding regional living. While the 190 visa offers more flexibility and a direct path to permanent residency, the 491 visa provides a significant points advantage. It can be a viable route for those willing to live in regional areas.
Preparation is key. Ensure your skills assessment is current, and consider all factors, including state-specific requirements and your long-term career goals. Consulting with an immigration lawyer can provide personalised guidance, helping you navigate the complex application process and increase your chances of success. Good luck on your journey to making Australia your new home.
If you need assistance, the team at Timpson Immigration can help clarify the requirements for you or your employee.
