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Skilled Worker Visa: Everything You Need to Know About

Do you wish to work in Australia? The country offers a range of skilled worker visas to attract talented professionals worldwide. Let’s explore the opportunity to see if you're eligible and understand the requirements for applying.

Skilled Worker Visa

Australia is a developed nation with good infrastructure, a better lifestyle, beautiful lakes, and scenic mountains. Additionally, the country offers work opportunities that attract people from all over the globe to start their careers there. The Skilled Worker Visa helps make the dream of working in Australia a reality.

Many industries in Australia, such as construction, healthcare, software programming, and engineering, need workers, but there is a shortage. If you have experience in one of these sectors, you can apply for a visa to build your career in Australia.

But before you apply for the visa, it's essential to understand the eligibility criteria.

Eligibility Criteria

Eligibility is determined by a points-based system. Here's an overview of the requirements:

1.Skilled Occupation List:

Applicants must select an occupation from the Skilled Occupation List, which outlines the professions eligible for permanent residency under the GSM program. Here are the types of visas available under the GSM Program:

Types of Visas under the GSM Program:

  1. Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189): This visa is for skilled workers who are not sponsored by an employer, family member, or nominated by a state or territory government.
     
  2. Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190): A skilled worker nominated by an Australian state or territory government can apply for this visa.
     
  3. Skilled Work Regional Provisional Visa (Subclass 491): This visa is for skilled workers sponsored by an Australian relative residing in a designated regional area or by a state or territory government.

2. Minimum Score Requirement:

To be eligible for these visas, applicants must score at least 65 points on the points test.

The points test evaluates several factors: age, English language proficiency, work experience, education, and specific skills.

  1. Age: Points are awarded based on your age group.
     
  2. Qualifications: Higher qualifications generally earn more points.
     
  3. Work Experience: Relevant work experience in your nominated occupation is valued.
     
  4. English Language Proficiency: Demonstrated English language skills through recognised tests are essential.
     
  5. State or Territory Nomination: Some states or territories offer additional points for nomination.
     
  6. Professional Year in Australia: Completing a professional year in specific fields can earn extra points.

3. Skill Assessment:

A skills assessment is mandatory. Designated assessing authorities like VETASSESS, Engineers Australia, and ACS evaluate your qualifications and work experience against Australian standards.

4. Additional Requirements:

Apart from the points test and skills assessment, you must meet health and character requirements.

After understanding the eligibility criteria, let's discuss the required documents.

Documents Required to Apply for a Visa

When applying for your visa, you must provide documents to verify your identity, nationality, qualifications, and work history.

You will need to provide the following documents:

  1. Your visa application
  2. The fee for your visa
  3. Proof of your English language ability
  4. Birth certificate
  5. Originals or certified copies of your qualifications
  6. Police check certificate
  7. A copy of your CV
  8. Evidence of your work experience
  9. Employment references

Suppose you are already working in your country under the professional listed in the occupation list generated by the Authority in Australia. In that case, you must include various employment references, including your previous employer’s email and website.

  1. Name and position of the person giving the reference
  2. Details of the person who wrote the reference
  3. How long have you worked there?
  4. What position do you hold?
  5. Your salary

Summary: The above-listed information is the basis of the skilled worker visa; those planning to move to Australia need to grasp every little aspect of the visa so that the possibility of visa approval is high.

Throughout this process, it's crucial to consult experienced visa experts who are up to date with the latest visa guidelines and regulations.

To get assistance from an industry expert, call us today!