This visa allows you to migrate to Australia if you have good English language skills and have skills and qualifications in an occupation in need in Australia.
This visa uses a points test to select visa applicants with characteristics needed in the Australian labour market.
You do not require sponsorship to apply for this visa, however to be eligible you must be:
- under 45 years of age
at time of application
(over 45? - other options)
- have the skills and qualifications that meet the Australian standard for an occupation on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL)
The SOL is a list of skilled occupations that are in need in Australia. Each occupation listed on the SOL is allocated a points value for use in the visa assessment process.
Applicants under this category do not rely on sponsorship from family or the Australian government. They are assessed against their ability to satisfy the basic Visa criteria and to meet a current pass mark of 120 points on an assessment.
Successful applicants will obtain Australian permanent residence which will enable them to live and work in Australia without any restrictions. Subject to meeting certain residency requirements, it is possible to renew the permanent residence, and even qualify for Australian citizenship.
This visa allows you and any secondary applicants included in your visa application to live as permanent residents in Australia. Australian permanent residents can:
- live and work in Australia on a permanent basis
- study in Australia at school or university
- receive subsidised healthcare through Medicare and the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS)
- access certain social security payments (subject to waiting periods)
- be eligible for Australian citizenship (subject to the residency eligibility criteria)
- sponsor people for permanent residence.
