Planning to make Australia your home? It's an excellent time to take action. The limit for permanent Employer Supported visas has been increased by the government, rising to 44,000 this year.

That’s more spots, more chances, and less waiting around. But getting your permanent work visa in Australia isn’t a piece of cake. It takes the right kind of prep. To save your research time, we are here with details. Let’s walk you through the exact requisites and how to apply.

Visa Types: Which One Suits You?

In Australia, your chances of obtaining a permanent work visa depend on the type of visa you apply for. Here’s a quick look at your options under the skilled worker visa Australia program:

A. Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)

This is for the go-getters. No boss, no state backing, just your skills and a points score of 65 or higher. It’s great if you're chasing flexibility and want to live anywhere in Australia. But here is a fair warning: competition is tough! And you’ll need a strong points profile to stand out.

B. Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)

Think of this as a team effort. A state or region lends you assistance. In exchange, you commit to living and working there. The bonus? An extra 5 points toward your application for a permanent work visa in Australia. Many skilled workers go this route because, frankly, it’s often faster and more achievable than the 189.

Quick tip: If you qualify for both, the 190 usually gives you better odds.

C. Employer-Sponsored Visa (Subclass 186)

This one’s built around a job offer. When an Australian firm agrees to provide sponsorship for you, you're in a good place. Processing tends to move quicker, especially for roles in demand. It’s ideal if you’ve already got your foot in the door with a local company or you're being transferred internally.

5-Step Application Process

The road to a permanent work visa in Australia isn’t short. Fortunately if you follow the correct steps, it's simple:

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility

The Skilled Occupation List must include your profession. Aspirants have to be younger than forty-five. Also, make sure you score at least 6.0 in each IELTS band. Although higher scores will be additional help for your case.

Step 2: Skills Assessment

This part is often underestimated. You’ll need to be assessed by the relevant authority for your trade or profession. Examples are: Engineers Australia assesses engineers, while AITSL handles teachers.

Step 3: Submit Your Expression of Interest (EOI)

Head to the SkillSelect portal and enter your qualifications, experience, and language scores. Wondering what’s a good target? Aim for 70+ points.

Side note: Scoring 7.0 in IELTS gives you 10 extra points.

Step 4: Lodge Your Visa Application

After you receive an invitation, it's time to formally apply.

You’ll need:

• Police clearance certificates
• Proof of employment (payslips, contracts, employer letters)
• Medical exams

Step 5: After Your Visa Is Granted

Congrats! You’re nearly there.

• Enrol in Medicare to access Australia’s public healthcare
   
• Understand and comply with your visa conditions (they’re not optional)

3 Costly Mistakes to Avoid

Even the most qualified applicants can get caught out. Avoid these common pitfalls when applying for your permanent work visa in Australia:

1. Low English Test Scores
   While a 6.0 in IELTS is technically acceptable, it’s just the baseline. Aim for 7.0 or higher to strengthen your application. Higher scores can also earn you more points, bringing you closer to the skilled worker visa in Australia.

2. Weak or Incomplete Work History Evidence
   A simple CV won’t make it. You’ll need to provide solid proof of your work experience. Attach payslips, signed employment references, and employment contracts. This ensures your skills and qualifications match what’s required for the visa.
    
3. Ignoring Timeframes
   The clock begins to tick when you receive an invitation. You primarily have only sixty days from the date to reply to them. Avoid waiting a long time and ruin the chance to succeed. Many strong candidates lose their chance simply by not acting quickly enough.

Summing Up

Securing a permanent work visa in Australia is no small deal. But with careful preparation and a strong application, it’s absolutely doable. You must pay attention to the nuances.

Prioritise documents, max out your points, and avoid shortcuts. And if it still feels overwhelming? That’s where we come in.

Book a free consultation with our migration team at EEMS. We’ll help you make the smart moves. Because your future in Australia starts with one great application.