Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a General Skilled Visa in Australia
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If you're interested in applying for a General Skilled Visa, this simple guide will walk you through the process step by step, from checking your eligibility to submitting your application.
What is a General Skilled Visa?
The General Skilled Visa (also called the Skilled Independent Visa, subclass 189) is a visa that allows skilled workers to live and work in Australia permanently. This visa is for people who are not sponsored by an employer, family member, or a state or territory government. Unlike other skilled visas, the General Skilled Visa doesn't require sponsorship or nomination.
Other visas in the same programme include the Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190), which requires state nomination, and the Skilled Work Regional Visa (subclass 491), which is for workers in regional areas. However, the subclass 189 visa is the most popular option for workers who don’t have sponsorship from an employer or state government.
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
Before you start your application, it’s essential to see if you’re eligible for the General Skilled Visa. To be eligible, you must meet certain criteria:
1.1. Occupation List
First, check if your occupation is on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL). The SOL lists jobs that are in demand in Australia. If your job is on this list, you may be eligible to apply for the visa. Common jobs on the SOL include engineers, IT professionals, and healthcare workers.
1.2. Age Requirement
You must be under 45 years old at the time of submitting your application.
1.3. English Language Proficiency
You need to show that you have a certain level of English. This is usually done by taking an approved English language test, such as IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL. The minimum score required is Competent English (usually an IELTS score of 6.0 in each part of the test).
1.4. Skills Assessment
You must get your skills assessed by the relevant authority for your occupation. This is to confirm that your qualifications and work experience match Australian standards. Different occupations have different assessing authorities. For example, engineers may need to be assessed by Engineers Australia, while accountants might need to be assessed by CPA Australia.
1.5. Health and Character Checks
You must meet health and character requirements. This involves a health examination and police checks from all countries you’ve lived in for at least 12 months in the last 10 years.
Step 2: Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)
If you meet the eligibility requirements, the next step is to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI). This is an online form through the SkillSelect system, where you show your interest in applying for a skilled visa.
2.1. Provide Your Details
When you submit your EOI, you'll need to give personal information, such as your age, qualifications, work experience, English language skills, and whether your occupation is on the Skilled Occupation List.
2.2. Points System
Australia’s General Skilled Visa uses a points-based system. Points are awarded based on things like your age, English skills, work experience, qualifications, and whether you have a skilled partner. To apply, you need to score at least 65 points.
The points are calculated as follows:
Age: You get more points if you’re younger. For example, applicants aged 25-32 get 30 points, while those aged 40-44 get only 15 points.
English Language: Higher English test scores earn you more points.
Work Experience: More years of work experience in your field give you more points.
Qualifications: Higher educational qualifications give you more points.
2.3. Invitation to Apply
Once you submit your EOI, you may get an invitation to apply for the visa. Invitations are sent to people who meet the point threshold and whose occupation is in demand. Invitations are given in rounds, and the points required may change with each round.
Step 3: Apply for the Visa
If you get an invitation to apply, you can start the official application process. You’ll have 60 days to submit your application after receiving the invitation.
3.1. Complete Your Online Application
You’ll need to submit your application through the ImmiAccount portal. The online form asks for detailed information about your qualifications, work experience, and skills.
3.2. Submit Supporting Documents
Along with your application, you will need to provide several supporting documents, including:
Skills assessment report from the relevant authority
English language test results (e.g., IELTS or PTE)
Proof of qualifications (degree certificates, transcripts)
Work experience documents (reference letters, ppayslips
Identity documents (passport, birth certificate)
Police clearance certificates from countries where you’ve lived
Health examination results
Make sure all documents are complete and accurate. Missing or incorrect documents can delay your application.
3.3. Pay the Application Fee
You will need to pay a visa application fee. The base fee for the subclass 189 visa is around AUD 4,240 for the primary applicant. If you’re applying with family members, additional fees will apply.
Step 4: Wait for a Decision
After you submit your application, it will be processed by the Australian Department of Home Affairs. Processing times can vary, but it usually takes about 6-12 months to receive a decision. During this time, you might be asked to provide more information or documents.
Step 5: Get Your Visa and Settle in Australia
If your application is successful, you will receive your visa grant notice. This document will tell you the conditions of your visa, such as when it is valid and whether you need to live or work in a specific area (e.g., regional areas).
5.1. Travel to Australia
Once you have your visa, you can make travel arrangements to Australia. If you’re already in Australia on another visa, you might be able to transition directly to the General Skilled Visa without leaving the country.
5.2. Settle and Live in Australia
As a permanent resident, you can enjoy the benefits of living in Australia, such as access to healthcare, education, and social services. You will also be able to work in your skilled occupation and contribute to the Australian economy.
5.3. Apply for Citizenship
After living in Australia for a few years, you may be eligible to apply for Australian citizenship. Generally, you need to have lived in Australia for at least 4 years, with at least 1 year as a permanent resident.
Conclusion
The General Skilled Visa is a great opportunity for skilled professionals to live and work in Australia permanently. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can improve your chances of a successful application. From checking your eligibility to submitting your expression of interest and gathering the necessary documents, each step plays an important role in securing your visa.
If you need help throughout the process or have questions about your application, visit Immi Smart. Our team of experts is here to guide you every step of the way, making sure your application is complete and submitted on time.
By following the right steps and getting expert assistance, you can make your dream of living and working in Australia come true.
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