As of my last knowledge update in July 2023, Australia has a skilled migration program that allows individuals with certain skills and qualifications to apply for a skilled visa. This program is designed to address skill shortages in the Australian workforce and to contribute to the country’s economic development.
The skilled migration program in Australia typically involves the following visa subclasses:
Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189): This is a points-tested visa for skilled workers who are not sponsored by an employer or family member. You need to meet the eligibility criteria and achieve a minimum score on the points test to be invited to apply.
Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190): This is a state or territory nominated visa, where you need to be nominated by a state or territory government agency. It requires you to have skills and qualifications that are in demand in the specific state or territory.
Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491): This is a points-tested visa for skilled workers who want to live and work in regional areas of Australia. You need to be nominated by a state or territory government agency or sponsored by an eligible family member living in a designated regional area.
Employer-Sponsored Visas: These include visas such as the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa (Subclass 482) and the Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) visa (Subclass 186). These visas are for individuals who are sponsored by an Australian employer and have the required skills and qualifications for the nominated position.
General Skilled Migration Visas: In addition to the above subclasses, there are other visa options within the general skilled migration category, each with its own specific requirements and conditions.
Please note that immigration policies and visa requirements can change, and it’s important to check with the official Australian government website or a registered migration agent for the most up-to-date information. If you’re interested in applying for a skilled visa in Australia, you should research the specific requirements for the visa subclass you’re interested in and ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria.
Additionally, it’s worth noting that the application process for skilled visas can be complex and competitive due to the points-based system. Seeking professional guidance from a registered migration agent can be beneficial to ensure that your application is accurate and complete.