Australia is a popular destination for many people seeking permanent residency, offering a high standard of living, a strong economy, and a vibrant multicultural community. The country has a range of visa options available for those looking to migrate, each with its own set of requirements and eligibility criteria.
In this blog, we will explore the top 3 visa options for permanent residency in Australia as a skilled worker, including the:
- Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)
- Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)
- Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186 Direct Entry Stream)
What are the benefits of permanent residency in Australia?
An Australian permanent resident and an Australian citizen are not the same. As a permanent resident of Australia, you generally can:
- remain in Australia indefinitely
- work and study in Australia
- enrol in Australia’s national health scheme, Medicare
- apply for bank loans to buy property
- sponsor eligible relatives for permanent residence
- apply for Australian citizenship, if eligible
- travel to and from Australia for as long as your travel facility permits.
- attend free English language classes provided by the Adult Migrant English Program
- work in New Zealand
You may also qualify for other government benefits and services. If you hold a permanent visa, but you are not residing in Australia, your eligibility for the above may be impacted.
Unlike Australian citizens, a permanent resident generally cannot:
- have an Australian passport
- vote in Australian Government elections unless you enrolled (as a British subject) before 26 January 1984
- access student loans
- join the Australian Defence Force
- obtain ongoing work in the Australian Government
- return to Australia from overseas without a valid travel facility (you do not have automatic right of entry to Australia).
What are the best Australian permanent residency visas for skilled workers?
Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) Points-tested stream
The Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) is a popular option for those seeking permanent residency in Australia. This visa is for skilled workers who are not sponsored by an employer, a state or territory government, or a family member. The visa is points-based and applicants must score a minimum of 65 points to be eligible.
Requirements and eligibility criteria for the Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) include:
- Having a suitable occupation on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL)
- Meeting the age requirement of under 45 years at the time of invitation
- Having a positive skills assessment in your nominated occupation
- Meeting the English language requirements
- Having a minimum of 65 points
Advantages of the Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) include:
- No requirement for sponsorship by an employer, a state or territory government, or a family member
- The ability to live and work anywhere in Australia
- No moral obligations to a state or territory
Disadvantages of the Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) include:
- A competitive points-based system with annual caps
- You must be invited to apply
Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)
The Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190) is a points-based visa for skilled workers who are nominated by a state or territory government in Australia.
The visa requires a minimum of 65 points, and you must also meet the minimum criteria for the state or territory you seek nomination from. Each state and territory have their own criteria and requirements for nomination.
Requirements and eligibility criteria for the Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190) include:
- Having a suitable occupation on the on the current Short-term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL) OR on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL)
- Meeting the state or territory government requirements
- Meeting the age requirement of under 45 years at the time of invitation
- Having a positive skills assessment in your nominated occupation
- Meeting the English language requirements
- Having a minimum of 65 points
- Being nominated by a state or territory government in Australia
Advantages of the Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190) include:
- Receiving a nomination from a state or territory government, which can increase your chances of being granted a visa
- Receiving an additional 5 points state or territory nomination
- Access to more occupations through the short term stream skilled occupation list
Disadvantages of the Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190) include:
- A competitive points-based system
- Limited availability of nominations from state and territory governments.
- Having to meet the requirements for the state or territory in which you seek nomination
- Entering a moral obligation to remain in the state or territory which nominates you for 2 years
Note the moral obligation is not a visa condition or legal requirement. You should seek professional advice regarding your individual circumstances if you intend to change location within the first 2 years.
Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186) Direct Entry Steam
The Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186) Direct Entry Stream is an Australian permanent residency visa for skilled workers who are sponsored by their employer in Australia.
Requirements and eligibility criteria for the Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186) in the Direct Entry Stream include:
- Having a suitable occupation included on the current Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL)
- Meeting the age requirement of under 45 years old
- Having a positive skills assessment in your nominated occupation
- Meeting the English language requirements
- Having an approved nomination application by an employer in Australia
- Having a valid employment contract with the sponsoring employer
- Meeting any mandatory licensing, registration or professional membership requirements
- Having at least three years of full-time skilled and relevant experience in your nominated occupation
Advantages of the Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186) include:
- Receiving a nomination from an employer, which can increase your chances of being granted a visa
- No competitive points requirements
- No state or territory nomination
Disadvantages of the Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186) include:
- Limited options for those who do not have a job offer from an Australian employer
- Your occupation must be on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) only
- If your employer’s nomination application is refused, you cannot be granted the visa
- The requirement to work for the sponsoring employer for a minimum period of time
Note the requirement to work for the employer is not a visa condition or legal requirement. You should seek professional advice regarding your individual circumstances if you intend to change employers within the first 2 years.
Conclusion
In conclusion, each of these visas has its own requirements and eligibility criteria, as well as advantages and disadvantages. Whether you are looking for a visa without a sponsorship requirement or one that is points-based, there may be an option for you. The key is to carefully evaluate your circumstances and needs to determine which visa is best for you. With the right visa and the right preparation, you may achieve your goal of becoming a permanent resident in Australia and enjoy the many benefits that come with it.
At Migration Unity, we specialise in the above mentioned visas. Maximise your chances of successfully being granted Australian permanent residency by seeking advice from an experienced Registered Migration Agent today. Click the button below to enquire about how we can assist you along your Australian permanent residency journey.
