General Skilled Migration Programme Australia Explained

Australia’s healthcare, engineering and technology sectors are experiencing talent gaps that require skilled professionals to sustain growth and support regional communities. For overseas nurses, engineers and IT specialists, the General Skilled Migration Programme offers a direct route to permanent residency.

Yet, navigating a points-based framework is not straightforward. Applicants must match their occupation to the ANZSCO list, secure a positive skills assessment and meet minimum point thresholds—then choose between independent, state-nominated or regional visa streams. Overlooking a requirement can lead to delays or even refusal.

This guide provides clear direction across every stage of the GSM journey: an overview of programme objectives and its place in Australia’s migration framework; side-by-side comparisons of Subclass 189, 190 and 491; explanations of occupation lists and point calculations; and insights into state sponsorship pathways. We also walk you through lodging an Expression of Interest, preparing your visa application and share advice drawn from 22 years of migration law expertise to improve your chances.

Understanding the General Skilled Migration Programme

The General Skilled Migration (GSM) Programme sits at the heart of Australia’s efforts to attract highly skilled workers where local supply falls short. It forms part of the permanent Migration Program, which for 2024–25 is capped at 185,000 places. Of these, 132,200 (around 71%) are allocated to the skilled stream, underscoring the emphasis on bolstering sectors from healthcare and engineering to IT and trades.

What Is the GSM Programme?

The GSM Programme is a permanent migration pathway administered by the Department of Home Affairs. It is designed to bring in migrants whose occupations appear on national and regional shortage lists, ensuring that Australia can fill labour gaps critical to economic performance. By offering a points-tested route—where applicants are assessed on factors like age, English proficiency, work experience and qualifications—the GSM Programme streamlines the intake of professionals who can immediately contribute to the workforce.

Under the 2024–25 planning levels, the skilled stream (which encompasses GSM and employer-sponsored pathways) has 132,200 places available. These figures are laid out in the Australian Parliament’s report on skilled migration (Chapter 7 – Skilled Migration), reflecting government priorities around labour and regional development.

Key Objectives and Economic Impact

At its core, the GSM Programme aims to:

• Address critical labour shortages in sectors such as healthcare, construction, engineering and information technology
• Stimulate innovation by attracting professionals with specialised skills and global experience
• Support regional revitalisation, encouraging migrants to settle and work outside major cities

Skilled migrants recruited through the GSM stream tend to have very high workforce participation rates, helping to drive productivity gains and support sustainable growth. By filling vacancies that local labour markets cannot, migrants under this programme bolster GDP growth, generate new employment opportunities and contribute to local spending—especially in regional communities where their skills can have an outsized impact.

Recent Policy Changes

The GSM landscape is evolving to meet shifting economic and demographic needs. Key reforms include:

• Discontinuation of the Business Innovation & Investment Programme (BIIP), which will close to new applications from July 2024
• Transition of the Global Talent Independent stream into a new National Innovation visa, marking 2024–25 as the final year for the current Global Talent Programme
• Introduction of a multi-year planning model from 2025–26, extending the Migration Program’s horizon to four years to better align with housing, infrastructure and labour market forecasts

These adjustments ensure that the GSM Programme remains targeted, efficient and aligned with Australia’s long-term workforce strategy.

Categories Within the Skilled Stream

Australia’s skilled migration stream is split into pathways that reflect different recruitment models and settlement targets. Whether you have an employer ready to sponsor you, rely on your points score or bring exceptional talents, each sub-stream has its own criteria, benefits and obligations.

Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS)

The Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) is built around genuine labour market needs. Under Subclass 186, Australian businesses nominate skilled workers to fill roles they can’t recruit locally. There are two routes:

• Direct Entry stream: for applicants with a positive skills assessment and at least three years of relevant experience.
• Temporary Residence Transition stream: for 482 visa holders who have worked with their sponsor for a minimum of three years.

Employers must prove they can’t source the skill domestically through labour market testing, meet training benchmarks for Australian staff, and ensure terms and conditions mirror those of local employees. For applicants, this pathway leads to permanent residency without further regional or skills-list obligations.

Skilled Independent Category

Subclass 189 is the classic point-tested visa: no state or employer sponsorship is required. You lodge an Expression of Interest in SkillSelect, claim points for age, English proficiency, work experience and qualifications, and await an invitation once you hit at least 65 points. Key features include:

• Freedom to live and work anywhere in Australia
• Access to Medicare and social security on the same basis as citizens
• Direct pathway to citizenship after meeting residency requirements

This stream is ideal if your occupation appears on the Medium-Long Term Strategic Skills List and your points tally stands strong on its own.

Regional and State/Territory Nominated Categories

To encourage skilled migration beyond the major cities, Australia offers two nomination-focused visas with extra points:

• Subclass 190 (Skilled Nominated Visa): Permanent residency granted after a state or territory government nominates you. You agree to live and work in that jurisdiction for at least two years and receive an additional 5 points toward your score.
• Subclass 491 (Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa): A five-year visa requiring nomination by an employer, family member or state/territory government and a commitment to reside in a designated regional area. After three years of meeting income and residence conditions, you can apply for permanent residence via Subclass 191.

Both visas channel skilled migrants into regions facing acute shortages, and the bonus points improve your chances in competitive SkillSelect rounds.

Innovation and Talent Categories

For applicants with outstanding achievements, Australia provides talent-based pathways outside the standard points test. The Global Talent Programme (final intake in 2024–25) targets individuals at the top of their field—think leading researchers, tech entrepreneurs and artists with international accolades. The Distinguished Talent visa (Subclass 124/858) similarly caters to those with a proven record of exceptional contributions. These streams prioritize demonstrated excellence over factors like age or Australian study, offering expedited processing and permanent residency on merit.

Skilled Occupation Lists: SOL, MLTSSL, STSOL

Choosing the right occupation code is the foundation of any successful GSM application. Australia maintains several occupation lists that outline which professions are in demand—both nationally and within specific regions. Understanding these lists ensures you only invest time and resources in occupations that can actually lead to an invitation to apply.

What Is the Skilled Occupation List (SOL)?

The Skilled Occupation List (SOL) is Australia’s curated roster of occupations facing national shortages. If your profession appears on the SOL, you’re eligible to lodge a point-tested application under visas like Subclass 189 and Subclass 190. The list is regularly reviewed to reflect emerging gaps in sectors such as healthcare, engineering, IT and trades.

For a complete, up-to-date breakdown of every occupation, consult our guide to the Skilled Occupation List (SOL). There, you’ll find detailed ANZSCO codes, any recent additions or removals, and guidance on which list best suits your profile.

Understanding MLTSSL and STSOL

Beyond the SOL, the Department of Home Affairs publishes two more specialised lists:

• Medium-Long Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL): Targets occupations critical to Australia’s medium- and long-term economic strategy. Most point-tested visas require your job to appear here, especially Subclass 189.
• Short-Term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL): Covers roles in demand for shorter periods, often tailored to immediate state or territory needs. Subclass 190 and Subclass 491 applicants may draw from this list if their nominating jurisdiction supports it.

In addition, some states maintain a Regional Occupation List (ROL), highlighting occupations they actively sponsor to encourage settlement outside major cities. Always check both the national lists and the ROL of your chosen state or territory before proceeding.

How to Choose Your Occupation

Picking the right code involves more than ticking a box. Follow these steps:

1. Identify your ANZSCO code: Match your current job title and duties to the official ANZSCO descriptions on the Home Affairs website.
2. Verify list inclusion: Confirm whether your code appears on the SOL, MLTSSL, STSOL or your state’s ROL.
3. Check assessing authority requirements: Each occupation has a designated body—such as Engineers Australia for engineers or ACS for IT professionals—responsible for skills assessments. Review their guidelines for qualifications, work experience and documentation.
4. Consider demand and competitiveness: Even if an occupation is listed, invitation rounds can be competitive. Review recent cut-off scores and processing times in SkillSelect to gauge your chances.

By aligning your skills and documentation with the correct list, you maximise both your points score and your likelihood of receiving an invitation to apply.

GSM Visa Subclasses Detailed Comparison

Choosing between Subclass 189, 190 and 491 comes down to sponsorship, geographic commitment and how quickly you want a pathway to permanent residency. All three visas share the requirement of a minimum 65 points and a positive skills assessment, yet they differ in bonus points, residence obligations and regional focus. Below is a side-by-side look at each subclass to help you pinpoint the one that aligns with your goals.

Subclass 189 – Skilled Independent Visa

The Skilled Independent visa (Subclass 189) is the pure point-tested stream—no state or employer backing required and the freedom to settle anywhere in Australia.

• Eligibility: at least 65 points in SkillSelect and an occupation listed on the Medium-Long Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL).
• Residency and work rights: permanent visa that grants you the right to live and work anywhere; full access to Medicare and most social services.
• Citizenship pathway: eligible to apply for Australian citizenship after four years of lawful residence, including at least 12 months as a permanent resident.

Processing times usually range from 8 to 12 months, depending on your occupation and the completeness of your application. For a detailed side-by-side analysis of the three point-tested visas, see 189–190–491: Find Out Now Which Is Best for You.

Subclass 190 – Skilled Nominated Visa

When a state or territory nominates you, Subclass 190 offers a permanent visa plus a valuable 5-point boost.

• Nomination process: submit an Expression of Interest, apply to the relevant state or territory migration agency and secure nomination based on their priority occupation list.
• Points advantage: the additional 5 points can tip the scales in a competitive SkillSelect round.
• Residence obligation: commit to living and working in the nominating jurisdiction for at least two years, and notify them of any major changes such as address or employment.

Once granted, the Subclass 190 visa carries the same freedoms as Subclass 189 but underscores your initial promise to contribute to a specific region’s economy.

Subclass 491 – Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa

Tailored to address skill shortages in regional Australia, the Subclass 491 visa is valid for five years and offers a clear path to permanent residency for those who meet their regional commitments.

• Sponsorship: obtain nomination from a state or territory government or sponsorship by an eligible family member living in an approved regional area.
• Regional commitment: you must live, work and study in a designated area; after three years you can apply for the Subclass 191 permanent visa if you meet income and residence requirements.
• Income threshold: maintain a minimum taxable income (around AUD 53,900 per year) over the three-year provisional period to qualify for the final PR step.

By directing talent to less populated areas, this visa not only fills critical gaps but also sets you on a fast-track toward permanent residency and, ultimately, citizenship.

Eligibility and Points-Based Assessment

Before you dive into lodging an Expression of Interest (EOI), it’s essential to tick off the basic eligibility criteria. You must nominate an occupation on one of the relevant skilled lists, obtain a positive skills assessment from the designated assessing authority, meet health and character requirements, and satisfy the points test. The points-based system ensures that candidates best aligned with Australia’s economic needs are prioritised—so understanding how it works and where you fit in is critical.

Overview of the Points Test

The points test is your ticket into the SkillSelect system. To submit an EOI, you need at least 65 points, but scoring higher can significantly boost your chances of receiving an invitation. Points are awarded across various categories—age, English language ability, skilled employment history, qualifications and more. Once you lodge your EOI in SkillSelect, invitations are issued in periodic rounds to applicants with the highest point scores in their occupation group.

An EOI isn’t a visa application; it’s a profile that tells Home Affairs you’re ready to apply. If your points tally meets or exceeds the cut-off for your occupation, you’ll receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA), after which you have 60 days to submit a full visa application.

Factors Affecting Your Points

Your total score is the sum of points earned across several factors:

Each category requires specific evidence—test scores, employment references, academic transcripts—so compile documentation carefully.

Strategies to Improve Your Score

If you’re hovering around the 65-point threshold, there are practical steps to boost your tally:

• Further Australian study: Completing a diploma or degree in Australia can add up to 10 points (Australian study + specialist qualification).
• Gain more skilled experience: Prioritise roles in your nominated occupation to increase your employment points, especially by working in Australia.
• Upgrade your English test: Aiming for “Superior” results on IELTS, PTE or equivalent can net you 10–20 points.
• Leverage partner skills: If your spouse or de facto partner meets the requirements, you could pick up an extra 10 points.
• Regional incentives: Studying or working in a designated regional area can unlock 5 extra points under specific visa streams.

For a deeper dive into targeted tactics—like which qualifications deliver the best returns or how to time your test bookings—check out our comprehensive points-improvement guide.

State and Territory Sponsorship Explained

For many applicants, a state or territory nomination can be the key to unlocking extra points and a smoother path to permanent residence. Each jurisdiction sets its own priorities, targeting occupations that address local skill shortages and economic goals. By understanding how nomination works, you’ll be better placed to tailor your application and maximise your chances of success.

How State Nomination Works

The state nomination process runs alongside SkillSelect, Australia’s online Expression of Interest (EOI) system. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Lodge your EOI in SkillSelect, selecting the visa subclass (190 or 491) and nominating the state or territory you wish to target.
2. Visit the migration agency website of your chosen jurisdiction (for example, NSW, VIC or QLD) and submit a separate nomination application, providing evidence of your skills, work experience and any additional criteria they require.
3. If the state or territory approves your nomination, you’ll receive a unique nomination code. Update your EOI in SkillSelect with that code to claim the 5-point bonus.
4. Upon invitation, lodge your visa application within 60 days, including your nomination letter and all supporting documents.

Timeframes vary, but most states aim to process nomination applications in 4–8 weeks. Keep an eye on each jurisdiction’s processing times and cut-off dates to plan your submission accurately.

State/Territory Requirements and Demand Lists

Every state and territory publishes its own demand list, aligned with regional labour shortages and economic objectives. Here’s a snapshot of some key markets:

• New South Wales (NSW): Engineers, nurses, ICT professionals and trade supervisors.
• Victoria (VIC): Software developers, health practitioners, early childhood teachers and project managers.
• Queensland (QLD): Construction trades, agrifood specialists, mining engineers and environmental scientists.
• South Australia (SA): Defence technicians, manufacturing engineers, data analysts and medical lab scientists.
• Western Australia (WA): Automation experts, marine engineers, geologists and renewable energy technicians.

For a comprehensive overview of each state’s nomination criteria, occupation lists and application portals, check our detailed guide on state sponsorship explained.

Tips for a Successful Nomation Application

Securing a nomination means aligning your profile with the priorities of that state or territory. Consider these best practices:

• Highlight relevant experience: Tailor your resume and work references to the occupations and industries on the state’s demand list.
• Provide certified evidence: Include skills assessments, professional registrations and employment letters that clearly match ANZSCO tasks.
• Follow the format: Each jurisdiction has its own application form and document checklist—adhere strictly to their instructions to avoid requests for more information.
• Stay up to date: Nomination criteria can change with each planning cycle. Bookmark the state migration page and subscribe to alerts so you don’t miss critical updates.

With focused preparation and a clear understanding of state priorities, you’ll boost your nomination prospects and edge closer to realising your Australian dream.

Employer-Sponsored Pathways vs GSM Program

When weighing your migration options, you’ll find two broad routes: employer-sponsored visas and the points-based General Skilled Migration (GSM) Programme. Employer sponsorship ties your application to a specific position and employer, while GSM relies on your individual score across factors like age, skills and English ability. Understanding the trade-offs can help you pick the track that aligns with your career stage, location preferences and long-term goals.

Overview of Employer-Sponsored Visas

Australia offers several employer-sponsored visa streams:

• Subclass 482 (Temporary Skill Shortage):
  Employers nominate skilled workers for up to four years. Applicants need a positive skills assessment, relevant work experience and, in most cases, evidence that no suitably qualified Australian was available.

• Subclass 186 (Employer Nomination Scheme):
  A permanent visa with two streams—Direct Entry for new recruits with at least three years’ experience and Temporary Residence Transition for 482 holders who have worked with their sponsor for three years.

• Subclass 494 (Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional):
  A provisional five-year visa for regional employers. After meeting income and residence requirements, holders can apply for permanent residency under the Subclass 191 Regional visa.

All three require employers to conduct labour market testing, meet training benchmarks for local staff and ensure terms match equivalent Australian employees. As an applicant, you benefit from a clear sponsor, but your mobility is tied to that sponsoring business (and, in the case of subclass 494, to a designated regional area).

Comparing Employer Sponsorship and GSM

For a deeper look at employer sponsorship—especially how to secure a role and get a 482 visa—our guide walks through every step.

Choosing the Right Path

• Early-career professionals may find an employer-sponsored route more straightforward, since an offer on the table can bypass the points hurdle.
• Senior specialists with strong credentials might prefer the GSM independent stream (Subclass 189) for location freedom and a direct citizenship pathway.
• If regional living appeals—perhaps you’ve identified job openings in regional Queensland or Western Australia—the Subclass 494 or regional State/Territory nomination (Subclass 491) could deliver bonus points and targeted opportunities.
• Those who lack an immediate sponsor but boast high English scores, Australian work experience or partner skills can leverage GSM to secure a visa based purely on merit.

By mapping your profile—skills, test results, job offers—against the characteristics above, you’ll zero in on the option that offers the least resistance and the greatest long-term benefit.

Annual Planning Levels and Statistics

Understanding how many visas are available can help applicants gauge competitiveness and set realistic expectations. Each year, the Australian Government publishes planning levels for the Migration Program, allocating a certain number of places to the skilled, family and special streams. For 2024–25, roughly 71 per cent of the 185 000 permanent places are dedicated to skilled migration, underlining the importance of the GSM Programme in fulfilling labour market needs.

2024-25 Planning Levels for Skilled Stream

The 2024–25 permanent Migration Program is capped at 185 000 places, of which 132 200 (approximately 71 per cent) are reserved for the skilled stream. These figures, set out in the Australian Parliament’s report on skilled migration (Chapter 7 – Skilled Migration), demonstrate the Government’s focus on filling critical skill gaps and driving economic growth.

Breakdown by Category

Within the 132 200 skilled places, the Government has allocated quotas across specific visa pathways:

• Employer Nomination Scheme: 44 000 places
• Skilled Independent (Subclass 189): 16 900 places
• Regional (Subclass 491): 33 000 places
• State/Territory Nominated (Subclass 190): 33 000 places
• Business Innovation & Investment Programme: 1 000 places
• Global Talent independent stream: 4 000 places
• Distinguished Talent visas: 300 places

These allocations reflect the diverse routes under the skilled stream, balancing employer-sponsored, points-tested, regional and talent-based pathways.

Recent Trends and Changes

In recent years, several shifts have reshaped these numbers:

• The Business Innovation & Investment Programme saw its allocation drop from 1 900 in 2023–24 to just 1 000 in 2024–25, ahead of its planned closure in July 2024.
• The Global Talent independent stream remains significant at 4 000 places but is slated to transition into the new National Innovation visa from late 2024.
• From 2025–26, migration planning will adopt a multi-year model, extending the planning horizon to four years. This change aims to better synchronise visa allocation with long-term infrastructure, housing and workforce projections.

By staying on top of these planning levels and trends, applicants can tailor their strategies—whether targeting high-demand categories or timing their Expression of Interest—to align with government priorities and improve their chances of success.

Labour Market Projections and Occupation Demand

Australia’s migration settings aren’t chosen at random—they reflect a clear view of where the economy needs talent most. By examining current labour market conditions and five-year forecasts, you can target occupations that not only boost your points score but also meet genuine employer demand. In practice, matching your skills to sectors with the strongest growth increases your chances of an invitation to apply and, ultimately, of securing employment once you arrive.

Current Labour Market Conditions

The National Skills Commission’s labour market snapshot shows Australia’s unemployment sitting at its lowest level in over 50 years. Key sectors driving job creation today include:

• Health care and social assistance: an ageing population and evolving care needs keep demand high for nurses, allied health professionals and aged-care workers.
• Information technology: digital transformation across government, finance and retail has fuelled roles for software developers, cybersecurity experts and data scientists.
• Construction and trades: infrastructure projects and residential building booms continue to underpin need for civil engineers, electricians and carpenters.

Understanding these headline trends helps you see which occupational groups are likely to receive priority in SkillSelect invitation rounds and state nomination programs.

Five-Year Employment Projections

Looking beyond today, the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations forecasts robust growth in:

• Health care and social services, driven by demographic shifts.
• Professional, scientific and technical services, as businesses invest in specialised advisory and R&D functions.
• Education and training, with ongoing demand for teachers, trainers and curriculum developers.

In addition, emerging fields tied to Australia’s net-zero transition—such as renewable energy technicians, environmental scientists and sustainability consultants—are expected to move from niche to mainstream. By keeping an eye on these projections, you can position yourself in occupations that are both future-proof and in shortage.

Aligning Your Application with Demand

To translate these insights into action:

1. Cross-check your ANZSCO code against the occupation lists (SOL, MLTSSL, STSOL and any regional lists) to confirm eligibility.
2. Prioritise roles that appear in both national shortage lists and your state’s demand list—double recognition boosts your visa prospects.
3. Highlight in your Expression of Interest any experience or qualifications tied to high-growth sectors, such as digital certifications or specialised healthcare training.
4. If you’re open to regional locations, consider Subclass 491 or 190 streams that offer targeted state nomination for occupations needed outside capital cities.

By aligning your profile with the occupations Australia needs most—today and tomorrow—you not only enhance your invitation chances but also set yourself up for a smoother entry into the local labour market.

Step-by-Step GSM Application Process

Embarking on the GSM journey might seem complex, but breaking it into clear stages can make the process manageable. You’ll move from creating an online profile to receiving an invitation, then to lodging your formal application and finally waiting for a decision. Here’s how to navigate each phase with confidence.

Creating an ImmiAccount and Lodging an EOI

First, set up an ImmiAccount on the Department of Home Affairs website. You’ll need:

• A valid email address
• Your passport details
• Evidence of your qualifications (e.g. transcripts, degree certificates)
• English test scores (IELTS, PTE or equivalent)
• A skills assessment reference number from the relevant assessing authority (ACS for IT, Engineers Australia, etc.)

Once your account is active, log into SkillSelect and complete an Expression of Interest (EOI):

1. Choose your visa subclass (189, 190 or 491).
2. Input personal details, ANZSCO occupation code and current address.
3. Declare your points score—age, qualifications, work experience, English ability and any partner skills.
4. Submit the EOI. There’s no fee at this stage, but it’s critical to be accurate: errors can delay invitations.

Receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA)

EOIs are ranked by total points and occupation group. Invitations to Apply (ITAs) are issued in fortnightly rounds:

• If your score meets or exceeds the cut-off for your occupation, you’ll get an email notification.
• Log back into SkillSelect to view your ITA and the 60-day countdown to lodge a full application.
• Keep your contact details up to date in your ImmiAccount—missed emails can mean a lost invitation.

Preparing and Submitting Your Visa Application

After receiving your ITA, gather and upload all required documents via ImmiAccount:

• Certified identity documents (passport bio-data page, birth certificate)
• Positive skills assessment report
• Full English test results
• Employment references detailing tasks, dates and hours worked
• Health examination results (HAP ID) and police clearance certificates

In your ImmiAccount, complete the online visa application form, paying the visa application fee when prompted. Double-check each attachment: incomplete or mismatched documentation is the most common cause of processing delays.

Processing Times and What to Expect

Processing times vary by subclass and caseload:

• Subclass 189: approximately 8–12 months
• Subclass 190: around 6–9 months
• Subclass 491: typically 6–8 months

You can track your visa status in ImmiAccount and use VEVO to verify your conditions once granted. During this period, stay responsive to any departmental requests—prompt replies to “Request for Further Information” can help keep your application on schedule.

By following these steps methodically—ImmiAccount setup, EOI lodging, ITA management and meticulous document preparation—you’ll set a solid foundation for a successful GSM visa application. Good luck!

Required Documentation and Costs

A successful GSM application hinges on thorough preparation. Missing or incorrect paperwork is a leading cause of delays, so it pays to get organised early. Below, we break down the key documents you’ll need, the bodies that verify your skills, mandatory checks and the fees you can expect.

Essential Documents Checklist

Before you start your online application, assemble certified copies (and translations, if needed) of:

• Identity documents: Passport biodata page, birth certificate and any change-of-name certificates
• Qualifications: Academic transcripts, degree or diploma certificates, and proof of completion
• Employment references: Letters on company letterhead outlining your role, dates of employment, hours worked and key duties
• Proof of residency: Utility bills or tenancy agreements if you’re applying onshore
• Relationship evidence (if including a partner): Marriage certificate or evidence of a de facto relationship, joint bank statements

Tip: All non-English documents must be translated by an NAATI-accredited translator and accompanied by the original language version.

Skill Assessment and Assessing Authorities

Each occupation has a designated assessing authority responsible for confirming your qualifications and experience. Common bodies include:

• Australian Computer Society (ACS) for ICT professionals
• Engineers Australia for engineering occupations
• VETASSESS for trades, hospitality and some business roles
• Trades Recognition Australia (TRA) for certain trade occupations

Turnaround times vary—plan on 4–8 weeks for assessments, longer if your case is complex. Make sure you understand each authority’s required evidence (e.g. detailed CV, employer reference templates, certified copies of licences).

English Tests, Health and Character Checks

To meet Australia’s health and character standards, you must:

• Sit an approved English test: IELTS, PTE Academic, TOEFL iBT or Cambridge Advanced. Aim for the highest band you can—‘Proficient’ (IELTS 7.0) or ‘Superior’ (IELTS 8.0+) results attract more points.
• Undergo a health examination: Booked through a HAP-ID in your ImmiAccount, it includes a general medical exam and chest X-ray by a Home Affairs-panel doctor.
• Provide police clearance certificates: From every country where you’ve lived for 12 months or more in the last 10 years. Certificates must be recent (generally within 12 months of lodgement).

Falling short on any of these checks can trigger a visa refusal, so book tests and appointments as soon as you receive your Invitation to Apply.

Visa Application Fees and Other Expenses

Budgeting accurately ensures there are no surprises when it’s time to pay. Key costs include:

• Government Visa Application Fees
  • Primary applicant (Subclass 189/190/491): AU$ 4,640
  • Partner of primary applicant: AU$ 2,320
  • Each dependent child: AU$ 1,160
• Health Insurance: Overseas visitors health cover or OSHC for provisional streams (approx. AU$ 500–1,000 per person per year)
• Translation and Certification: NAATI translations (around AU$ 40–70 per page) and document certification (AU$ 5–10 per document)
• Skills Assessment and Test Fees: Vary by authority (AU$ 300–1,200) and English tests (AU$ 300–400)
• Miscellaneous: Police clearance fees (AU$ 30–100 per certificate), postage or courier charges for documents

Keep receipts and transaction records for every payment. When lodging your visa application in ImmiAccount, you’ll be prompted to pay the government fee; other expenses must be arranged separately.

By ticking off each item on this list and setting aside the right budget, you’ll streamline your GSM application and keep unexpected hurdles to a minimum. Ready to move on? Next up, we’ll look at post-grant steps to settle smoothly into Australian life.

Post-Visa Grant and Settlement

Congratulations on securing your GSM visa. This milestone marks the start of your journey in Australia, but there are a few critical steps before and after you touch down. From checking your visa details online to setting up essential services, careful planning will help you transition smoothly. Below, we outline the practical tasks and timelines to keep in mind once your visa is granted.

Accessing VEVO and Understanding Visa Conditions

Once your visa is granted, you’ll receive a grant notification with your visa grant number, start date, expiry date and any special conditions. To view or share these details, use the Department of Home Affairs’ Visa Entitlement Verification Online (VEVO) system:

• Visit the VEVO portal and enter your passport details and visa grant number.
• Confirm your visa subclass, validity period and work or study limitations.
• Print or save a PDF of your visa summary—you may need to show this to employers, banks or landlords.

Keep an eye on any “no further stay” or “must maintain health insurance” conditions. If you plan to travel before or shortly after arrival, VEVO will show whether your travel facility (usually 12 months from grant) is still active.

Planning Your Arrival and Initial Settlement

With your visa ready to go, focus on the practical side of moving:

• Travel and Bridging Visas: If you applied onshore, your existing bridging visa remains in effect until you leave Australia and activate your new visa. Offshore applicants must arrive before the initial entry date on the grant letter.
• Tax File Number (TFN): Apply online at the Australian Taxation Office within four weeks of arrival. A TFN is essential for your salary to be taxed correctly.
• Bank Account: Many banks let you open an account from overseas. Look for options with no monthly fees and easy online banking.
• Medicare and Health Cover: Permanent GSM visas grant Medicare access. Register online or at a local Service Australia centre, then request your card. If you hold a provisional regional visa (Subclass 491), arrange private health insurance until you upgrade to permanent residency.
• Accommodation and Utilities: Book short-term housing for your first few weeks, then hunt for longer-term rentals. Set up utilities (electricity, internet) and get a local SIM card or phone plan.

Don’t forget driver’s licences, school enrolment if you have children, and professional registrations (e.g. nursing or engineering boards). Joining local community groups or expat networks can also help you settle faster.

Pathways to Permanent Residency and Citizenship

Depending on your visa subclass, your route to final permanent residency and citizenship will vary:

• Subclass 189 and 190: You hold permanent residency from the moment of grant. After four years of lawful residence—and at least one year as a permanent resident—you become eligible to apply for Australian citizenship.
• Subclass 491: This provisional visa lasts five years. To convert to a permanent Subclass 191 visa, you must live and work in regional Australia for at least three years and meet the minimum income threshold (around AUD 53,900 per annum). Once you hold Subclass 191, the same citizenship timeline as above applies.

For all routes, you’ll need to meet character requirements, maintain residency limits (e.g. no more than one year outside Australia during the qualifying period) and pass the citizenship test, which covers Australia’s values, history and civics. Keep records of your travel, employment and address history—details will be requested when you lodge your citizenship application.

By ticking off each of these post-grant tasks and understanding your obligations, you’ll set yourself up for a seamless transition from new migrant to fully integrated Australian citizen. Welcome to your new chapter down under!

Common Pitfalls and Tips for Success

Even well-prepared applicants can stumble on the finer details of the GSM process. By learning from common mistakes and adopting time-tested strategies, you’ll boost your chances of a smooth, successful visa outcome. Below are the key traps to watch for—and practical tips to steer clear of them.

Avoiding Common Application Errors

One slip-up in your documentation or form entries can lead to processing delays or outright refusals. Watch out for:

• Incomplete forms: Leaving questions blank or mis-typing your passport number can trigger requests for more information.
• Mismatched documents: If the name on your skills assessment doesn’t exactly match your passport, Home Affairs will pause processing until you fix it.
• Incorrect ANZSCO codes: Choosing the wrong occupation code means your application won’t align with the assessing authority’s criteria.
• Missing certifications: All non-English documents must be translated by an NAATI-accredited translator and accompanied by the originals.
• Overlooking health/character checks: Failing to book your panel-doctor medical exam or forgetting police clearances can stall your visa grant.

Use a comprehensive checklist and tick off each item one by one. It’s worth asking a colleague or friend to review your uploads—fresh eyes often spot alignment issues faster than you can.

Best Practices for Meeting Deadlines and Requirements

A reliable calendar and clear milestones are your best friends during the GSM journey. Try these tactics:

• Block out key dates: Mark EOI lodgement, state nomination deadlines, ITA expiry and visa application cut-offs in your digital calendar.
• Set buffer periods: Aim to have documents ready two weeks before each deadline. That cushion helps absorb unexpected delays, whether it’s a slow skills-assessment turnaround or waiting for an additional translation.
• Automate reminders: Use calendar alerts, task-management apps or simple email notifications to nudge you when each step is due.
• Maintain version control: Save files with clear names and dates (e.g., “CV_Sep2025_v2.pdf”) so you always know which document is the most recent.
• Keep a log: Record each submission date, reference numbers and correspondence with Home Affairs or state agencies. If anything goes off track, you’ll have the history to resolve it quickly.

By treating your application like a project and tracking every milestone, you’ll avoid last-minute scrambles and the stress that comes with them.

Leveraging Professional Advice and Resources

Even the savviest DIY applicant benefits from expert insight. Simon Mander Consulting P/L has over two decades of experience translating migration law into practical steps. Here’s how to tap into that expertise:

• Professional review: A migration agent can audit your EOI, skills-assessment documentation and visa application to catch subtle errors before you lodge.
• Up-to-date guidance: Policy settings and occupation lists shift with each planning cycle. Agents receive alerts on changes, so your strategy stays current.
• Evidence preparation: Agents know exactly what style of employment reference or academic transcript Home Affairs expects—no guesswork involved.
• Free resources: Download the free skilled migration booklet or browse the information hub on Simon Mander’s website for checklists, sample letters and the latest updates.

Investing in professional support can cost less than the delays and stress of a refused application. Whether you choose to work with an agent or simply use the Simon Mander info hub, expert advice will keep you on track and boost your confidence throughout the process.

Frequently Asked Questions about the GSM Programme

Below are concise answers to some of the most common queries about Australia’s General Skilled Migration (GSM) pathway. Use this as a quick reference, and remember that your individual circumstances can affect outcomes—when in doubt, seek professional advice.

What Is the Minimum Points Score Required?

To lodge an Expression of Interest (EOI) in SkillSelect, you must claim at least 65 points on the Department of Home Affairs’ points test. These points come from factors like:

• Age
• English language proficiency
• Skilled employment (overseas and Australian)
• Educational qualifications
• Additional criteria (e.g., regional study, partner skills)

While 65 is the bare minimum, actual cut-offs in invitation rounds often sit higher—especially for competitive occupations. A stronger score increases your odds of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA), so aim to boost your tally wherever you can (for instance, by upgrading your English test or adding Australian work experience).

Can I Change My Nomination After Lodging an EOI?

Yes—but only up to a point. If you apply for a state or territory nomination (Subclass 190 or 491), you can update your EOI in SkillSelect to include the nomination code once it’s granted. This will add the extra 5 points for nomination. However:

• You must make that update before you receive an ITA.
• Once invited, you cannot switch visa subclasses or substitute in a different nomination.
• Personal details (address, contact info) can be updated at any time in your ImmiAccount, even after an ITA.

If your circumstances change significantly—say you earn more work experience or another state offers nomination—you can withdraw your current EOI and submit a new one, but only if you haven’t yet been invited.

How Long Does Processing Take for Each Subclass?

Processing times vary by visa type and the completeness of your application. Current average waits are:

• Subclass 189 (Skilled Independent): 8–12 months
• Subclass 190 (Skilled Nominated): 6–9 months
• Subclass 491 (Skilled Work Regional Provisional): 6–8 months

These estimates can shift with caseload and policy changes. During assessment, you’ll see status updates in your ImmiAccount. Promptly responding to any requests for more information helps keep your application on track.

What Happens If My Visa Is Refused?

A refusal isn’t the end of the road, but it does mean you’ll need to act quickly:

1. Review the refusal notice. It will explain the reasons your application didn’t meet requirements.
2. Check your review rights. Depending on the grounds, you may be eligible to seek a merits review at the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT) within 21 days of the decision.
3. Consider your options:
   • Lodge an AAT appeal if you believe the decision was incorrect.
   • Address the refusal reasons and submit a fresh application (once any time bars or re-application periods have passed).
   • Seek advice from a registered migration agent to assess merit and next steps.

Whether you appeal or reapply, tackling the specific deficiencies identified in your refusal letter is crucial to a better outcome next time.

Moving Forward with Your Skilled Migration Journey

The path to Australian permanent residency might seem complex, but breaking it into manageable steps makes it achievable. Here’s how to keep momentum and avoid common roadblocks:

1. Review Your Profile
   • Double-check your points score and ensure your nominated occupation aligns with the latest SOL, MLTSSL or STSOL.
   • Update any new qualifications, test results or work experience in SkillSelect before the next Invitation to Apply round.

2. Prepare Your Documentation
   • Gather certified translations, employment references and positive skills-assessment reports well in advance.
   • Book your English test or medical examination early—slots can fill up fast.

3. Submit an Accurate EOI
   • Be precise with personal details, ANZSCO codes and the state/territory you’re targeting.
   • Monitor SkillSelect cut-off scores and state nomination announcements to time your lodgement.

4. Stay Organised and Responsive
   • Use a simple calendar or task-management tool to track deadlines, invitation windows and document expiry dates.
   • Respond to any Home Affairs requests for further information promptly to avoid processing delays.

5. Leverage Expert Guidance
   • Even small oversights can derail an application. A quick consultation with a registered migration agent can save you weeks of frustration.
   • Take advantage of free resources like the Simon Mander skilled migration booklet and information hub to stay up to date on policy changes.

Your dream of working and living in Australia doesn’t have to remain out of reach. For personalised advice tailored to your circumstances, visit Simon Mander Consulting P/L. With over 22 years of migration law expertise and a proven track record of successful visa grants, we can help you navigate each stage of the GSM programme with confidence. Start your journey today at simonmander.com and turn your Australian ambitions into reality.

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