GENERAL SKILLED MIGRATION

Skilled migration is for applicants with qualifications, skills, English language and aged between 18 and 44 years. The skilled migrants have increased over the years and skilled migrants now account for more than half of all migration to Australia (See http://www.immi.gov.au/statistics/migrant.htm ).

There are three categories under skilled migration

1. Offshore general skilled - applicants can be inside or outside Australia but must be outside at the time of grant of visa



2. Onshore general skilled – This category applies for overseas students finishing their studies in Australia



3. Onshore New Zealand citizen - for NZ citizens currently in Australia.

The following are the types of visas under the different categories:

1. Independent – Applicants must meet the basic requirements and do not have a sponsor.



2. Skill matching – Applicants to be involved in the skill matching process and to be nominated by a State or Territory government or an employer



3. Designated area sponsored – Applicants who have a close relative living in a designated area and an assurer. The sponsor must live in a designated area



4. Australian sponsored - Applicants who have a close relative living outside a designated area and a sponsor.

In addition to the above visas, a temporary visa called Skilled Independent Regional (SIR) (Provisional) visa has been developed by DIMIA in consultation with the State/ Territory Governments. The SIR visa is granted for a period of 3 years. During this period, the SIR visa holder must live for at least 2 years and be employed for at least 1 year in a low population growth area before they become eligible to apply for one of the Permanent Residency options. The qualifying score is lower than the Independent categories and must satisfy the basic requirements.

You need to select the appropriate visa and satisfy the requirements for grant of visa.

Complete the AUSTMSS Online Assessment form for professional advice.

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