Australia has many immigrants in its large population as well as in its workforce. The changing migration patterns, including immigrant skill levels, are an important issue for the employment market. The General Skilled Migration (GSM) program is formulated to allow skilled individuals and their families to migrate to the country. Australia’s immigration rules and policies have changed over the past 65 years. There has been a key focus on attracting employees and temporary or skilled migrants to meet the requirement for skilled labourers in the economy.

Under the General Skilled Migration Program, visas are point-verified, independent or state territory-sponsored. There is also an option for family-sponsored permanent visas. A special General Skilled Migration (GSM) program has been developed for people aspiring to immigrate to have professional skills. The program has several subclass visas, allowing professionals with different skills to obtain permanent visas. The profession registration is renewed once or twice a year, containing an extensive list of professions in demand in Australia. Therefore, this is a great opportunity for those with English skills and skills in their field.

Understanding Visa classes:

Australian Subclass 190 Visa – (SKILLED NOMINATED VISA): Subclass 190 is a point-based visa where the person needs to score at least 65 points. Permanent residency is awarded when the applicant achieves a skilled nominated subclass by the State Government and meets the eligibility criteria required.

Australian Subclass 189 Visa- (SKILLED INDEPENDENT PERMANENT VISA): This is a Permanent Residency visa for points-tested skilled workers who an employer or family member does not sponsor. An Australian state/territory can nominate them. It permits the applicants to work and live in the country as permanent residents.

Australian Subclass 491 Visa – (SKILLED WORK REGIONAL – PROVISIONAL VISA):  This is a state-nominated provisional visa for skilled migrants, allowing candidates to work and live in Australia for five years. 491 Visa holders can apply for a Permanent Residence visa after completing 3 years.