Your Roadmap to Australian PR 

Due to its high level of living, first-rate healthcare system, top-notch educational system, and multicultural society that values diversity, Australia has long been a popular choice for skilled people from around the world. The Australian government has created many avenues to Permanent Residency (PR) for competent people like you because they recognise the enormous value that skilled migrants bring to their economy.

We shall examine two well-liked routes to Australian permanent residency in this blog: the Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189) and the Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190). These visa categories are intended to draw highly qualified professionals with the training, experience, and skills necessary to meet particular skill gaps in Australia.  

A highly sought-after route that allows talented workers to live and work anywhere in Australia is the talented Independent Visa (subclass 189). It does not call for a nomination by a state or territory government, unlike subclass 190. Instead, this visa subclass uses a points-based system where applicants are evaluated based on several criteria, including age, education, English language competence, work experience, and more. We will go over the main criteria and advantages of subclass 189, illuminating the actions you must take to improve your chances of a successful application.

On the other hand, the Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190) provides an additional avenue for skilled workers to obtain Australian PR. This visa subclass requires candidates to be nominated by a state or territory government, which means you must possess skills and qualifications that align with their needs. We will delve into the nomination process and the benefits of subclass 190 and share insights on the various states and territories in Australia that offer nomination opportunities.

About Subclass 189 Visa

The Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189) is a permanent residency visa designed for skilled workers who want to live and work anywhere in Australia without needing sponsorship from an employer, a state, or a territory government. This visa subclass operates on a points-based system, where candidates are assessed based on age, English language proficiency, work experience, education, and other factors.

Key Features and Requirements:

• Points-based System: To be eligible for the subclass 189 visa, you must submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through the online SkillSelect system and meet the minimum points requirement. The points are awarded based on age, English language proficiency, skilled employment experience, educational qualifications, and other relevant criteria.
• Occupation List: The subclass 189 visa is available for occupations listed on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL). This list includes a wide range of occupations in various fields such as engineering, IT, healthcare, accounting, teaching, and more.
• Expression of Interest (EOI): Before applying for the visa, you need to submit an EOI where you provide information about your skills, qualifications, and experience. The EOI allows the Australian government to assess your eligibility and determine your points score.
• Invitation to Apply: Once you have submitted your EOI, you may receive an invitation to apply for the subclass 189 visa if you meet the minimum points requirement and your occupation is in demand. The invitation will specify the timeframe within which you need to submit your visa application.
• Skills Assessment: You must obtain a positive skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority for your nominated occupation. The skills assessment ensures that your qualifications and work experience align with the requirements of your chosen profession.
• English Language Requirement: You need to demonstrate competent English language skills by achieving the minimum score on an approved English language test, such as the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), Pearson Test of English (PTE), or Occupational English Test (OET).
• Age Limit: The subclass 189 visa is available for individuals who are under the age of 45 at the time of application. Points are awarded based on the age category, with maximum points awarded to candidates aged between 25 and 32.
• Health and Character Requirements: Like all Australian visa applications, you and your family members included in the application must meet health and character requirements. It includes undergoing medical examinations and providing police clearance certificates.

Benefits:

• Permanent Residency: The subclass 189 visa grants you permanent residency in Australia, allowing you and your eligible family members to live, work, and study anywhere in the country indefinitely.
• Freedom and Flexibility: With the subclass 189 visa, you have the freedom to pursue any occupation, change employers, and live in any state or territory of Australia.
• Access to Public Services: As a permanent resident, you can access Australia’s public services, including healthcare, education, and social security benefits.
• Pathway to Citizenship: The subclass 189 visa provides a pathway to Australian citizenship, allowing you to enjoy the full rights and privileges of being an Australian citizen.

It’s important to note that the subclass 189 visa is a highly competitive visa category, and meeting the minimum eligibility requirements does not guarantee an invitation to apply. Keeping up to date with the latest information from the Department of Home Affairs and seeking professional advice can greatly enhance your chances of success.

About  Subclass 190 Visa

The Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190) is a pathway to Australian Permanent Residency (PR) that requires a nomination from a state or territory government in Australia. This visa subclass is designed to address specific skill shortages within different regions of Australia and encourages skilled workers to settle in those areas.

To be eligible for the subclass 190 visa, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Occupation: You must have an occupation on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) or the state/territory occupation list of the nominating state or territory. The occupation must align with your skills, qualifications, and work experience.
• Skill Assessment: You must undergo a skill assessment by the relevant assessing authority for your nominated occupation. This assessment ensures that your skills and qualifications match the requirements of the work.
• Points-based System: Like other skilled visas, subclass 190 operates on a points-based system. You need to score a minimum number of points (currently 65 points) based on factors such as age, English language proficiency, work experience, education, and other additional criteria.
• Nomination: You must receive a nomination from an Australian state or territory government. Each state or territory has its specific requirements and criteria for nomination. These requirements may include factors such as occupation demand, specific skills needed, or ties to the region.
• Expression of Interest (EOI): Before applying for the subclass 190 visa, you need to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through the online SkillSelect system. Your EOI provides information about your skills, qualifications, and other details that are used to assess your suitability for the visa.
• Invitation to Apply: If your EOI is selected and you meet the eligibility criteria, you will receive an invitation to apply for the subclass 190 visa. The invitation specifies the time frame within which you must submit your application.
• English Language Requirement: You must meet the English language requirement, which is generally assessed through tests such as the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), Occupational English Test (OET), Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), or Pearson Test of English (PTE).
• Obligations: If granted the subclass 190 visa, you have certain obligations to fulfil. These include living and working in the nominating state or territory for a specified period. Each state or territory may have different requirements in terms of the duration of stay and obligations.

The subclass 190 visa offers several benefits, including permanent residency, access to a wider range of occupations compared to the subclass 189 visa, additional points for state nomination, and the opportunity to live and work in a specific state or territory in Australia.

Difference Between Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) And Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)

In conclusion, the Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189) and the Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190) offer skilled professionals the opportunity to obtain Permanent Residency in Australia. Subclass 189 provides the freedom to live and work anywhere in the country, while subclass 190 requires a nomination from a state or territory government. Both pathways have their unique requirements and benefits.

As you embark on your journey to pursue Australian PR, remember to embrace the experiences and challenges that come with it. Stay motivated, persevere through the application process, and trust in your abilities to make your dreams of living in Australia a reality.

Wishing you success as you explore the Australia PR pathways through the Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189) and the Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190). May your journey lead you to a fulfilling and prosperous life Down Under.