GSM Visa (General Skilled Migration)
The General Skilled Migration (GSM) program is Australia’s primary pathway for skilled workers who want to migrate independently or with family. It is designed to attract individuals with skills in demand to contribute to the country’s economic growth and workforce needs. The GSM program operates on a points-tested system, where applicants must meet a minimum points threshold based on factors such as age, English language proficiency, work experience, education, and other qualifications.
Key visa subclasses under this stream include the Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189), Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190), and Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (subclass 491). Applicants must also have a positive skills assessment in an eligible occupation and may require a state or territory nomination. The program emphasizes merit-based selection to ensure that skilled migrants align with Australia’s labor market needs.
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Types of GSM Visas
Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)
A points-tested visa that stands on your own merits—no employer, state, or family sponsorship required.
Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)
If nominated by a state or territory government, this points-tested visa can lead to Australian residency. It’s ideal for those whose skills match specific regional demands.
Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491)
Targeting regional growth, this points-tested visa requires state/territory nomination or eligible family sponsorship. Living, working, and studying in designated regional areas can lead to a permanent visa later.
Note: For a 491 visa, you must stay in designated regional areas as specified by the government’s rules.
Eligibility Criteria
Generally, you must:
- Be Under 45 Years Old: Age is assessed at the time of invitation.
- Have Competent English: Demonstrate through tests like IELTS or PTE Academic.
- Obtain a Positive Skills Assessment: Confirm your occupation is on the Skilled Occupation List and have it assessed by the relevant body.
- Score at Least 65 Points: Use the official points calculator to estimate your score.
- Submit an EOI: Lodge an Expression of Interest via SkillSelect.
Points Test Overview
Points reflect factors like age, English skills, work experience, qualifications, and partner attributes. The goal is at least 65 points to secure an invitation. The following table shows the points system for Australian work visas.
| Category | Details | Maximum Points |
|---|---|---|
| Age | 18–24 years | 25 points |
| 25–32 years | 30 points | |
| 33–39 years | 25 points | |
| 40–44 years | 15 points | |
| English Language Proficiency | Competent English (IELTS 6 or equivalent) | 0 points |
| Proficient English (IELTS 7 or equivalent) | 10 points | |
| Superior English (IELTS 8 or equivalent) | 20 points | |
| Skilled Employment (Outside Australia) | Less than 3 years | 0 points |
| 3–4 years | 5 points | |
| 5–7 years | 10 points | |
| 8 years or more | 15 points | |
| Educational Qualifications | Doctorate | 20 points |
| Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree | 15 points | |
| Diploma or Trade Qualification | 10 points | |
| Qualification or Award Recognized by Australian Assessing Authority | 10 points | |
| Specialist Education Qualification | Completion of Master’s or PhD in a STEM field in Australia | 10 points |
| Australian Study Requirement | Not applicable to offshore applicants | 5 points |
| Professional Year in Australia | Not applicable to offshore applicants | 10 points |
| Community Language | NAATI accreditation | 5 points |
| Study in Regional Area | Not applicable to offshore applicants | 5 points |
| Partner Skills | Spouse/partner has competent English | 5 points |
| Spouse/partner has skills assessment and competent English | 10 points | |
| Single applicant or partner is an Australian citizen | 10 points | |
| Regional Sponsorship | For Subclass 491 visa | 15 points |
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Key Notes for Offshore Applicants
- Competent English (minimum IELTS 6 in each band or equivalent) is mandatory for all skilled visas, even if it does not earn points.
- Applicants must have a skills assessment in their nominated occupation, which aligns with Australia’s ANZSCO code.
English Language Requirements
Examples of English score thresholds:
| English Proficiency Level | IELTS (General or Academic) | PTE Academic | TOEFL iBT | Points Awarded |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Competent English | Minimum 6.0 in each band | Minimum 50 in each band | Minimum 12 Listening, 13 Reading, 21 Writing, 18 Speaking | 0 |
| Proficient English | Minimum 7.0 in each band | Minimum 65 in each band | Minimum 24 Listening, 24 Reading, 27 Writing, 23 Speaking | 10 |
| Superior English | Minimum 8.0 in each band | Minimum 79 in each band | Minimum 28 Listening, 29 Reading, 30 Writing, 26 Speaking | 20 |
(For more details, refer to the Australian Government – Department of Home Affairs.)
Passport holders from the UK, USA, Canada, New Zealand, or Ireland meet Competent English criteria automatically.
Key Notes
- Competent English is mandatory for most skilled visa subclasses, even if it doesn’t award points. This is the minimum eligibility requirement.
- Higher proficiency levels (Proficient or Superior English) can help applicants gain additional points, improving their overall score in the points test.
- IELTS, PTE, and TOEFL scores must be obtained from an approved test center and should be within the validity period (usually 2 years) at the time of application.
- OET (Occupational English Test) is also accepted for skilled migration, particularly for healthcare professionals, and scores must meet the specified level for Competent, Proficient, or Superior English based on visa requirements.
- Cambridge C1 Advanced Test (CAE) is accepted as proof of English proficiency, with required scores varying depending on the level of English proficiency (Competent, Proficient, or Superior) for the points test.
Australian Skilled Migration Visa Fees
This table provides an overview of the fees associated with the Australian Skilled Migration Visa process, including costs for the primary applicant, dependents, and additional requirements such as biometrics, medical examinations, and police clearance certificates. The fees are accurate as of the latest updates and are subject to change. For precise and up-to-date information, you are encouraged to consult the Australian Department of Home Affairs or authorized service providers.
| Applicant Type | Visa Application Fee (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Main Applicant | $4,765 |
| Partner (Spouse/De Facto) | $2,385 |
| Child (Each Dependent) | $1,195 |
Key Notes
- These fees are applicable as of the most recent updates; check the Department of Home Affairs website for any changes.
- Additional costs may apply for health checks, police clearances, and English proficiency tests.
- For offshore applicants, fees are typically paid at the time of visa application submission.
Expression of Interest (EOI)
Submitting an EOI via SkillSelect is your first step. You’ll provide:
- Personal Information
- Work Experience and Qualifications
- English Language Scores
- Skills Assessment Results
After submission, you wait for an invitation. If invited, you have a limited window (usually 60 days) to apply for the visa.
Application Process Step-by-Step
- Skills Assessment
- EOI Submission: Lodge via SkillSelect.
- Invitation: If your points and criteria match, expect an invitation.
- Visa Application: Apply within 60 days of receiving the invitation.
- Decision Awaited: The Department of Home Affairs reviews your submission.
Why Choose Sleek MIGRATION
- Expert advice to clarify requirements and options.
- Assistance with skills assessments, EOI submissions, and documentation.
- Personalized guidance through each step of the visa application.
- Ongoing updates so you never feel left in the dark.
Take the Next Step
Ready to make your Australian dream a reality? Contact us today for a free consultation and let’s start your GSM Visa journey.
FAQs
What is a skilled visa?
A points-tested migration program for skilled workers to live and work in Australia.
What are the main skilled visa subclasses?
Subclass 189 (Independent), Subclass 190 (Nominated), and Subclass 491 (Regional).
What is the minimum points requirement?
65 points are required to qualify for an invitation.
What is the Expression of Interest (EOI)?
A form submitted via SkillSelect to indicate your interest in a skilled visa.
Do I need a skills assessment?
Yes, for your nominated occupation by an authorized assessing authority.
What English test scores are accepted?
IELTS, PTE, TOEFL, OET, or Cambridge C1 with scores for Competent, Proficient, or Superior levels.
Can I include my family in the application?
Yes, you can include your spouse/partner and dependent children.
