Skilled Immigration Australia – Requirements, Types, Cost and More

Australia is one of the world’s most attractive destinations for skilled professionals seeking better career opportunities, a high quality of life, and a clear pathway to permanent residency. With a strong economy, diverse workforce, and high demand for skilled talent across industries, Australia actively welcomes qualified workers from around the globe. At PIML Education Consultant, we help you navigate every step of the skilled migration process — from eligibility assessment to visa approval — ensuring a smooth and successful journey.

How to Apply for Skilled Immigration to Australia

Applying for skilled migration requires planning, preparation, and meeting Australia’s eligibility criteria. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get started:

1. Check Your Eligibility: Make sure you meet basic requirements such as age, qualifications, work experience, and English proficiency.

2. Check the Skilled Occupation List (SOL): Confirm that your profession is listed on Australia’s Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) or Short-Term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL).

3. Get a Skills Assessment: Obtain a positive skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority for your occupation.

4. Take an English Test: Provide evidence of your English proficiency (IELTS, PTE, TOEFL, etc.).

5. Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI): Create a profile on Australia’s SkillSelect platform and enter the EOI pool.

6. Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA): If your points score is competitive, you’ll receive an invitation to apply for a skilled visa.

7. Apply for the Visa: Submit your application with all required documents and complete health and character checks.

Skilled Immigration Requirements for Australia

To qualify for a skilled migration visa, you generally need to meet the following criteria:

• Age: Be under 45 years old at the time of invitation.

• Education: Hold a qualification relevant to your nominated occupation.

• Work Experience: Have at least 1–3 years of relevant work experience.

• English Proficiency: Meet minimum English language requirements.

• Skills Assessment: Obtain a positive skills assessment from the appropriate authority.

• Points Score: Achieve at least 65 points on the migration points test.

• Health & Character: Pass Australia’s health and character checks.

Who Can Apply for a Skilled Visa?

You may be eligible for skilled migration to Australia if you:

• Work in an occupation listed on the Australian Skilled Occupation List (SOL).

• Have relevant qualifications, skills, and work experience.

• Meet the English language proficiency requirements.

• Wish to live and work in Australia permanently or temporarily.

Types of Skilled Migration Visas

Australia offers multiple skilled visa options based on your experience, occupation, and goals:

Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)

• Points-tested permanent residence visa.

• Does not require employer sponsorship or state nomination.

• Ideal for skilled workers with occupations on the MLTSSL.

Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)

• Permanent residence visa requiring nomination by an Australian state or territory government.

• Requires your occupation to be on the state’s demand list.

Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491)

• Temporary visa allowing you to live and work in regional Australia for up to 5 years.

• Provides a pathway to permanent residency (Subclass 191) after meeting conditions.

Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186)

• Permanent residence visa sponsored by an approved Australian employer.

• Requires a job offer in a nominated occupation.

Australia Skilled Immigration Costs

(Additional costs may apply for dependents, medical exams, skills assessments, and English tests.)

How PIML Education Consultant Helps

At PIML Education Consultant, we make the skilled migration process to Australia seamless and stress-free. From eligibility evaluation and documentation to submitting your Expression of Interest and visa application, our expert team supports you at every stage. We also help improve your points score and maximize your chances of receiving an invitation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can my family move with me under skilled migration?
Yes, you can include your spouse and dependent children in your skilled visa application.

Do I need a job offer to apply for skilled migration?
No, job offers are not required for visas like Subclass 189 or 190, but they can increase your points or eligibility.

How long does the process take?
Processing times vary depending on visa type and individual circumstances, but most applications take 6 to 12 months.

Can skilled migration lead to permanent residency?
Yes, most skilled visas provide direct or step-by-step pathways to permanent residency and eventually citizenship.