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Australia Immigration Guide

Skilled Migration & State Sponsorship

Australia offers various skilled migration pathways for qualified professionals. The country's point-based immigration system evaluates candidates based on factors such as age, English proficiency, work experience, and educational qualifications.

Skilled Migration Program

Australia's skilled migration program includes several visa subclasses: • Subclass 189 (Skilled Independent): For highly skilled workers who are not sponsored • Subclass 190 (Skilled Nominated): For workers nominated by a state or territory • Subclass 491 (Skilled Work Regional): For workers willing to live in regional Australia

Points Test Requirements

Applicants must score at least 65 points to be eligible, though invitation scores are typically higher (75-90 points). Points are awarded for: • Age (25-32 years): 30 points • English proficiency (Superior): 20 points • Skilled employment (8+ years): 20 points • Educational qualifications (Doctorate): 20 points • Australian study: 5-10 points • State nomination: 5-15 points

Skilled Occupation Lists

Your occupation must be on one of Australia's skilled occupation lists: • Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) • Short-term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL) • Regional Occupation List (ROL) Common in-demand occupations include nurses, software engineers, accountants, teachers, and tradespeople.

English Language Tests

Accepted English tests include IELTS, PTE Academic, TOEFL iBT, and Cambridge C1 Advanced. Higher scores result in more points: • Superior (IELTS 8.0+): 20 points • Proficient (IELTS 7.0): 10 points • Competent (IELTS 6.0): 0 points

State and Territory Sponsorship

State and territory governments can sponsor skilled workers through subclass 190 and 491 visas. Each state has its own occupation lists and criteria. State sponsorship adds 5-15 points to your score and can significantly improve your chances of receiving an invitation.

Application Process

  1. 1Skills assessment for your occupation
  2. 2English language test
  3. 3Submit Expression of Interest (EOI) via SkillSelect
  4. 4Receive invitation to apply
  5. 5Lodge visa application within 60 days
  6. 6Health examinations and police checks
  7. 7Wait for visa decision (typically 6-12 months)
  8. 8Receive visa grant

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