Australia

Australia has consistently been one of the most popular immigration destinations worldwide, attracting immigrants from around the globe due to its exceptional quality of life. The country boasts world-class healthcare and educational systems, combined with a stable and growing economy and a multicultural, inclusive society. As a result, Australian cities frequently rank among the most livable in the world, demonstrating global recognition of its high living standards. In 2024, the Australian passport ranked 6th globally, allowing visa-free access to 189 countries and regions.

Australia Skilled Migration

The Australian Skilled Migration Program is one of the primary pathways to obtaining permanent residency. It is divided into three major categories:

189 Independent Skilled Visa
190 State-Sponsored Skilled Visa
491 Regional Skilled Visa

Basic Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must be under 45 years old.
Skills must match the MLTSSL, STSOL, or ROL occupation lists.
A minimum of 65 points on the migration points test is required.
IELTS scores must be at least 6 in all four components.

189 Independent Skilled Visa

No state government nomination or sponsorship is required.
Minimum 65 points on the migration points test.
Occupation must align with the MLTSSL list.
Grants 5 years of residency and work rights in any region of Australia.
Applicants may include their spouse and children under 23 years old.
Eligible applicants can apply for citizenship.

190 State-Sponsored Skilled Visa

Requires a state government nomination.
Minimum 65 points on the migration points test + 5 points for state nomination.
Occupation must align with the STSOL or ROL lists.
Grants 5 years of residency and work rights in the nominated state.
Residency in the sponsoring state for at least 2 years is required.
Eligible applicants can apply for citizenship.

491 Regional Skilled Visa

Must meet regional requirements.
Minimum 65 points on the migration points test + 15 points for regional nomination.
Occupation must align with the ROL list.
Grants 5 years of residency and work rights in the nominated regional area.
After 3 years of residency, applicants are eligible to apply for the 191 visa.
Applicants may include their spouse and children under 23 years old.

Skills in Demand Visa (SID)

On November 23, 2024, the Australian government introduced a new Employer-Sponsored Visa to better match skilled labor demands with the needs of Australian businesses.

No age limit.
IELTS requirement of only 6 in all four components.
Only 1 year of relevant work experience required.
Visa holders are granted 4 years of residency.
Three application streams are available.

Specialist Skills

Annual salary must exceed AUD 135,000.
Requires sponsorship from a specific employer.
No occupation restrictions.

Core Skills

Annual salary between AUD 73,150 and AUD 135,000.
Suitable for professionals in skilled trades, IT, engineering, and other fields.

Labour Agreements

Annual salary below AUD 73,150.
Targeted at specific, urgent, and lower-wage roles.

National Innovation Visa (NIV)

The Australian government plans to launch a new business visa by the end of 2024. This visa will replace the 188 Business Temporary Visa, 888 Business Permanent Visa, 132 Business Talent Permanent Visa, 858 Global Talent Visa, and BIIP (Business Innovation and Investment Program). It will grant direct permanent residency and focus on attracting the following four categories of top talent:

High-Level Entrepreneurs:

Open to both start-ups and established businesses, focusing on applicants' innovation capacity and business potential.

Innovative Investors:

Emphasis on the innovation and strategic vision of the investment plan, rather than just the investment amount.

Global Researchers:

Academics with highly cited publications or recipients of prestigious awards in their fields.

Athletes and Creative Professionals:

Individuals with internationally recognized achievements in sports or creative industries.