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Three Skilled Migration Pathways

Each visa has different requirements and benefits. Compare your options below.
Permanent

Subclass 189

Skilled Independent Visa
For skilled workers who do not require employer or family sponsorship or regional nomination. Live and work anywhere in Australia permanently.
  • No employer sponsorship required
  • No state or territory nomination needed
  • Live and work anywhere in Australia
  • Permanent residency from day one
  • Include family members
  • Pathway to Australian citizenship

Key Requirements

  • Submit Expression of Interest (EOI) via SkillSelect
  • Receive an invitation to apply
  • Occupation on the Skilled Occupation List
  • Positive skills assessment
Permanent

Subclass 190

Skilled Nominated Visa
For skilled workers nominated by an Australian state or territory. Permanent residency with a commitment to live in the nominating state for 2 years.
  • State or territory nomination required
  • Permanent residency from day one
  • 5 additional points from state nomination
  • Commit to live in nominating state for 2 years
  • Include family members
  • Pathway to Australian citizenship

Key Requirements

  • Submit Expression of Interest (EOI) via SkillSelect
  • Receive state or territory nomination
  • Receive an invitation to apply
  • Occupation on relevant state occupation list
Permanent

Subclass 491

Skilled Work Regional Visa
For skilled workers nominated by a state or territory or sponsored by an eligible family member in regional Australia. A 5-year provisional visa with a pathway to permanent residency.
  • State/territory nomination or family sponsorship
  • 15 additional points from nomination/sponsorship
  • Live and work in regional Australia
  • Pathway to PR via Subclass 191 after 3 years
  • Include family members
  • Access to Medicare from day one

Key Requirements

  • Submit Expression of Interest (EOI) via SkillSelect
  • Receive state/territory nomination or eligible family sponsorship
  • Receive an invitation to apply
  • Occupation on relevant regional occupation list

Points Test & Eligibility

Skilled migration visas require a minimum of 65 points. Use our calculator to estimate your score.
Points Breakdown
Age
25–32 years
30 pts
33–39 years
25 pts
40–44 years
15 pts
English Language
Competent English (IELTS 6.0)
0 pts
Proficient English (IELTS 7.0)
10 pts
Superior English (IELTS 8.0)
20 pts
Skilled Employment (outside Australia)
3–5 years
5 pts
5–8 years
10 pts
8+ years
15 pts
Skilled Employment (in Australia)
1–3 years
5 pts
3–5 years
10 pts
5–8 years
15 pts
Education
Diploma or trade qualification
10 pts
Bachelor degree
15 pts
Doctorate
20 pts
Other Points
State nomination (190)
5 pts
Regional nomination/sponsorship (491)
15 pts
Partner with competent English
5 pts
Single applicant
10 pts
Points Eligibility Check
Estimate your skilled migration points. This is a general guide only — book a consultation for a detailed assessment.
55
Estimated Points
Minimum 65 points required. Higher scores improve invitation chances.

The Skilled Migration Process

1
Skills Assessment
Obtain a positive skills assessment for your occupation from the relevant assessing authority.
2
English Test
Achieve the required English language score (IELTS, PTE, or equivalent) for maximum points.
3
Expression of Interest
Submit your EOI via SkillSelect with your points claim and preferred visa subclasses.
4
State Nomination (if applicable)
Apply for state/territory nomination if targeting Subclass 190 or 491.
5
Invitation to Apply
Receive an invitation from the Department of Home Affairs based on your points and ranking.
6
Visa Application
Lodge your complete visa application within 60 days of invitation with all supporting documents.

Healthcare Occupations in Demand

Many healthcare occupations are prioritised for skilled migration. Here are some of the most common we assist with.
  • Registered Nurse
  • Midwife
  • Medical Practitioner
  • Surgeon
  • Physiotherapist
  • Occupational Therapist
  • Pharmacist
  • Radiographer
  • Sonographer
  • Speech Pathologist
  • Psychologist
  • Social Worker
  • Dietitian
  • Podiatrist
  • Paramedic
  • Medical Laboratory Scientist

Not Sure Which Visa Is Right For You?

Our immigration lawyers can assess your situation and recommend the best pathway. Book a consultation today.