If you’re considering moving to Australia permanently as a skilled worker, the Subclass 189 (Skilled Independent Visa) and Subclass 190 (Skilled Nominated Visa) are popular pathways. This guide will walk you through the entire application process, providing you with essential tips for a successful application.
1. Determine Your Eligibility
Before starting your application, ensure you meet the eligibility requirements for the Subclass 189 or 190 visa:
- Occupation on Skilled Occupation List: Your nominated occupation must be on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) for the Subclass 189 or the relevant list for Subclass 190.
- Skills Assessment: Obtain a positive skills assessment from a relevant assessing authority for your nominated occupation.
- Age Requirement: Applicants must be under 45 years old at the time of invitation.
- English Proficiency: Demonstrate competent English language skills, typically through tests like IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL.
- Points Test: Meet the minimum points requirement (65 points for Subclass 189 and 60 points for Subclass 190) based on factors like age, work experience, education, and English proficiency.
2. Complete a Skills Assessment
- Choose the Correct Authority: Identify the correct assessing authority for your occupation and follow their assessment process.
- Gather Required Documents: Prepare necessary documents, including educational qualifications, work experience letters, and identification.
- Submit Application: Complete the assessment application and pay the required fees. Wait for the assessment results, which usually take several weeks.
Tip: Ensure that your documents are accurate and well-organized to avoid delays.
3. Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)
- Create an ImmiAccount: Set up an account on the Department of Home Affairs website.
- Complete the EOI Form: Provide information about your qualifications, work experience, English proficiency, and any family ties in Australia.
- Choose Your Visa: Specify whether you are applying for the Subclass 189 or 190 visa.
- Receive Points Score: The system will calculate your points based on the information provided.
Tip: Higher scores increase your chances of receiving an invitation. Consider including any additional qualifications or experience that may improve your score.
4. Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA)
- Wait for an Invitation: The Department of Home Affairs conducts regular rounds of invitations. Keep an eye on the results.
- Respond Promptly: If you receive an ITA, respond quickly, as the invitation is typically valid for 60 days.
5. Gather Required Documents for Your Visa Application
After receiving your ITA, you’ll need to prepare the following documents:
- Personal Identification: Passport and birth certificate.
- Skills Assessment: Include the positive skills assessment results.
- English Proficiency Test Results: Submit valid test results.
- Work Experience Documents: Employment reference letters, pay slips, and tax documents.
- Health Insurance: Proof of health insurance coverage.
- Health and Character Checks: Medical examination results and police clearance certificates.
Tip: Make sure all documents are certified copies, as required by the Department of Home Affairs.
6. Submit Your Visa Application
- Complete the Application Form: Fill out the application form for the Subclass 189 or 190 visa through your ImmiAccount.
- Pay the Visa Fee: Ensure payment of the visa application fee, which varies depending on the visa type.
- Submit Documents: Upload all required documents to support your application.
Tip: Double-check that all information is accurate and that you have included all necessary documents to avoid delays in processing.
7. Health and Character Checks
- Health Examination: Attend a medical examination with a panel doctor approved by the Australian government.
- Character Requirements: Provide police clearance certificates from every country you’ve lived in for more than 12 months in the last ten years.
8. Wait for a Decision
- Processing Times: Visa processing times can vary. Generally, Subclass 189 visas take about 6 to 12 months, while Subclass 190 visas may take a similar timeframe.
- Stay Updated: Monitor your ImmiAccount for updates or additional requests for information.
Tip: If there are delays, consider reaching out to the Department of Home Affairs for updates.
9. Visa Grant Notification
If your application is successful, you will receive a visa grant notification through your ImmiAccount. The notification will include:
- Visa Conditions: Review any specific conditions attached to your visa.
- Visa Validity: Note the duration and any travel restrictions.
10. Prepare for Your Move to Australia
Once your visa is granted, it’s time to prepare for your move:
- Arrange Travel: Book your flights and plan your arrival in Australia.
- Accommodation: Find temporary or permanent housing before your arrival.
- Settle In: Familiarize yourself with Australian culture, laws, and resources available for new migrants.
Conclusion
Applying for a Skilled Migration Visa (Subclass 189/190) can be a complex process, but with careful planning and organization, you can navigate it successfully. At EazyViza, we are here to assist you every step of the way, from skills assessment to your final visa application.
If you have any questions or need personalized assistance with your application, don’t hesitate to Book a Consultation today. Let us help you turn your dream of living and working in Australia into a reality!
