What is GSM?
The General Skilled Migration (GSM) program is designed to attract highly skilled workers to Australia who can contribute to the country's economy and fill skill shortages in various industries. This program offers pathways to permanent residency for individuals who possess the qualifications, work experience, and skills needed in Australia's labor market. Through a points-based system, applicants are assessed on factors such as age, English proficiency, education, and work experience, ensuring that only the most qualified candidates are selected to live and work in Australia.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the General Skilled Migration (GSM) program, applicants must meet a range of criteria designed to ensure they have the skills and qualifications needed to contribute to Australia’s workforce. Key eligibility criteria include:
- Age: Applicants must be under 45 years old at the time of invitation to apply for the visa.
- English Proficiency: Applicants must demonstrate a proficient level of English, typically through recognized tests like IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL. A higher level of English may be required for certain occupations.
- Occupation: Applicants must nominate an occupation that is listed on Australia’s skilled occupation list and have their skills assessed by a relevant assessing authority.
- Skills Assessment: A positive skills assessment is required for the nominated occupation to confirm that the applicant has the necessary skills and qualifications.
- Points Test: Applicants must score at least 65 points on the GSM points test, which evaluates factors such as age, English language ability, work experience, education, and other criteria.
- Health and Character Requirements: Applicants must meet health and character requirements, including undergoing medical examinations and obtaining police clearances.
- Invitation to Apply: Applicants must submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect and receive an invitation to apply for a visa based on their points score and ranking among other applicants.
Meeting these criteria is essential for progressing through the GSM application process and securing an invitation to apply for a skilled visa.
Visa Subclasses Summary
Australia’s General Skilled Migration (GSM) program offers three key visa subclasses designed for skilled workers who wish to live and work in Australia. Below is a brief overview of each visa subclass:
Subclass 189 - Skilled Independent Visa
The Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) is a points-based visa for skilled workers who are not sponsored by an employer, state, territory, or family member. This visa allows you to live and work permanently anywhere in Australia. It is ideal for applicants who have the skills and qualifications that are in demand but do not have a specific state or regional nomination.
Key Features:
- Permanent residency.
- No sponsorship required.
- Flexibility to live and work anywhere in Australia.
Learn More: Explore Subclass 189
Subclass 190 - Skilled Nominated Visa
The Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190) is a points-based visa for skilled workers who are nominated by an Australian state or territory government. This visa also grants permanent residency, allowing you to live and work in Australia. Applicants must commit to living and working in the nominating state or territory for a specified period.
Key Features:
- Permanent residency.
- Requires state or territory nomination.
- Obligation to live and work in the nominating state/territory for at least 2 years.
Learn More: Explore Subclass 190
Subclass 491 - Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa
The Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491) is a points-based visa for skilled workers who are nominated by a regional area or sponsored by an eligible family member living in a designated regional area of Australia. This visa is temporary, with a pathway to permanent residency after meeting certain conditions. It encourages skilled migration to regional Australia to support economic growth in those areas.
Key Features:
- Temporary visa, valid for 5 years.
- Pathway to permanent residency via Subclass 191 visa.
- Requires regional nomination or sponsorship by an eligible family member in a regional area.
- Obligation to live and work in a designated regional area.
Learn More: Explore Subclass 491
Comparison Table
To help you choose the right visa under the General Skilled Migration (GSM) program, here’s a comparison of the key features and requirements of the Subclass 189, 190, and 491 visas:
| Feature | Subclass 189 - Skilled Independent Visa | Subclass 190 - Skilled Nominated Visa | Subclass 491 - Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa |
|---|---|---|---|
| Residency Status | Permanent Residency | Permanent Residency | Temporary Visa (5 years) |
| Nomination Requirement | Not required | Required - State/Territory Nomination | Required - Regional Area Nomination or Family Sponsorship |
| Points Requirement | Minimum 65 points | Minimum 65 points | Minimum 65 points |
| Obligation to Reside | No specific obligation | Must reside in the nominating state/territory | Must reside and work in a designated regional area |
| Pathway to Permanent Residency | Immediate permanent residency | Immediate permanent residency | Pathway via Subclass 191 after meeting residency and work requirements |
| Processing Times | Varies based on demand and application details | Varies based on demand and application details | Varies based on demand and application details |
| Visa Duration | Indefinite | Indefinite | 5 years |
| Work Rights | Full work rights | Full work rights | Full work rights within regional areas |
| Travel Rights | Unlimited travel in and out of Australia | Unlimited travel in and out of Australia | Unlimited travel in and out of Australia during visa validity |
This table provides a side-by-side comparison of the three GSM visa subclasses, highlighting the main differences in eligibility, residency requirements, and visa conditions. Understanding these distinctions will help you determine which visa best suits your circumstances and migration goals. For more detailed information, explore the individual pages dedicated to each visa subclass.
Application Process
Applying for a General Skilled Migration (GSM) visa involves several steps designed to ensure that applicants meet all the necessary criteria and are well-suited for life in Australia. Below is an overview of the typical application process for GSM visas:
- Check Eligibility
- Before applying, ensure you meet the basic eligibility criteria, including age, English proficiency, skills assessment, and points requirement. Use the GSM points calculator to estimate your score and see if you qualify.
- Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)
- If you meet the eligibility criteria, the next step is to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect, an online system managed by the Australian government. In your EOI, you’ll provide details about your skills, qualifications, and experience. Based on this information, you’ll be ranked against other applicants, and the highest-ranking candidates may be invited to apply for a visa.
- Receive an Invitation to Apply
- If your EOI is successful, you may receive an invitation to apply for a GSM visa. The invitation will specify the visa subclass you’re eligible for, and you’ll have 60 days to lodge your visa application from the date of the invitation. Be sure to gather all required documents and prepare your application carefully.
- Lodge Your Visa Application
- Once you receive an invitation, you can lodge your visa application online. This includes submitting all necessary documents, such as your skills assessment, English test results, identity documents, and evidence of your work experience. You will also need to pay the visa application fee. Ensure that all information is accurate and complete, as errors or omissions can delay processing or result in a refusal.
- Await a Decision
- After lodging your application, the Department of Home Affairs will assess your application and verify the information provided. This may involve additional checks or requests for more information. Processing times can vary depending on the visa subclass and individual circumstances. If your application is successful, you’ll receive your visa grant notice, outlining the conditions of your visa and your rights as a visa holder.
Throughout the application process, it’s crucial to stay informed about any changes in immigration policy or requirements. Consider seeking professional advice to navigate the complexities of the GSM program and maximise your chances of success.
For more detailed information, explore the individual pages dedicated to each visa subclass.
Everything you need to know about GSM Visas
Join us in this video as we explore the GSM visas, including the 189, 190, and 491 visa, offering a detailed comparison of these visa options. We also discuss the pros and cons associated with each visa category.