General Skilled Migration Visas
General Skilled Migration Visas
General Skilled Migration (GSM) visas allow skilled overseas workers to migrate to Australia without the need for employer sponsorship. To be eligible, applicants must have skills and qualifications in an occupation that is in demand in Australia and meet specific eligibility criteria.
Applications are assessed under a points-based system, which considers factors such as:
- Occupation and successful skills assessment
- Relevant work experience
- Educational qualifications
- English language proficiency
- Age and other personal factors
General Skilled Migration is one of the most popular pathways to permanent residence in Australia, as it offers skilled migrants flexibility, employment mobility, and longterm settlement opportunities.
Key General Skilled Migration Visa Options
Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)
The Skilled Independent visa is a points-tested permanent residence visa that does not require sponsorship by an employer, state, territory, or family member.
Key features:
- Permanent residence from the date of grant
- No requirement for state or employer sponsorship
- Freedom to live and work anywhere in Australia
- Access to Medicare and other social benefits
- Pathway to Australian citizenship (subject to eligibility)
This visa is highly competitive and is generally available only to applicants with strong points scores in priority occupations.
Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)
The Skilled Nominated visa is a state or territory-nominated permanent residence visa. Applicants must be nominated by an Australian State or Territory Government.
Key features:
- Permanent residence from the date of grant
- Requires nomination by a state or territory
- Points-tested, with nomination providing additional points
- Obligation to live and work in the nominating state or territory for an initial period
- Access to Medicare and a pathway to citizenship
This visa suits applicants whose occupations are in demand at the state or territory level, even if they may not score high enough for the Skilled Independent visa.
Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491)
The Skilled Work Regional visa is a points-tested provisional visa for skilled migrants who are nominated by a state or territory government or sponsored by an eligible family member living in a designated regional area.
Key features:
- Provisional visa valid for up to 5 years
- Requires living, working, and studying in a designated regional area
- Points-tested, with nomination or family sponsorship providing additional points
- Pathway to permanent residence through the Subclass 191 (Permanent Residence – Regional) visa after meeting residence and income requirements
This visa is designed to encourage skilled migration to regional Australia and offers applicants greater opportunity for invitation compared with metropolitan-based GSM visas.
How We Can Help
At Bona Fide Migration Solutions, we provide personalised guidance to skilled migrants throughout the General Skilled Migration process, including:
- Assessing your eligibility under the GSM points-based system
- Advising on suitable visa pathways and occupation requirements
- Assisting with skills assessment and documentation preparation
- Preparing and lodging Expressions of Interest (EOIs)
- Supporting your visa application through to decision
Start Your Journey Today
If you are a skilled professional seeking a pathway to permanent residence in Australia, our experienced team is here to guide you with confidence and care.
Ready to Start Your Australian Journey?
Schedule a consultation with our registered migration agent to discuss your visa options and create a personalised migration strategy.
Contact us:
BONA FIDE Migration Solutions
ABN: 49841296550
25 McWilliams Crescent
Point Cook, Victoria
3030 Australia
Phone: +61 468 992 541
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