General Skilled Migration

Q: Who can apply for a GSM visa?

Anyone aged 18–45 years, with a job on the Skilled Occupation List, good English skills, and relevant work experience can apply. You must also pass a skills assessment and meet the points test requirement.

Q: What is the minimum score for the points test?

You need at least 65 points to be eligible. However, higher scores (like 85–95 points) increase your chances of getting an invitation to apply.

Q: Do I need a job offer in Australia to apply?

No, you don’t always need a job offer. Some visas (like Subclass 189) do not require employer sponsorship. But for others (like 190 or 491), you may need state or regional nomination.

Q: How long does the GSM visa process take?

Processing times vary, but on average, it can take 6 to 12 months after receiving an invitation to apply. It depends on the visa type, occupation, and number of applications.

Q: Can my family members apply with me?

Yes. You can include your partner and dependent children in your GSM visa application. They will also need to meet health and character requirements.

Q: What is a skills assessment?

A skills assessment is proof that your qualifications and work experience meet Australian standards for your nominated occupation. It must be done by the relevant assessing authority.

Q: Can I apply for a GSM visa if I am already in Australia?

Yes. You can apply from inside or outside Australia, as long as you meet all requirements.

Q: How many points do I need for general skilled migration?

The points required to apply for these visas varies depending on which visa you are applying for, and what your occupation is. Applicants need a minimum of 65 points to submit an expression of interest.

What is Skilled Visas Australia?

The General Skilled Migration (GSM) program is for skilled workers who want to live and work in Australia permanently or temporarily. This program is designed for people who have the skills Australia needs. If you have the right occupation, qualifications, English language skills, and work experience, you can apply under the GSM pathway.

GSM is a points based system, and you must first submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through Skill Select. If you are confused, then connect with our Migration Agent in Australia, who will guide you step by step.

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Benefits of GSM Visa

Get permanent or temporary residency in Australia

Live and work anywhere in Australia (depending on visa subclass)

Bring your family with you

Access to Medicare (Australia’s healthcare system)

Pathway to Australian Citizenship

No job offer needed at the time of application (in most cases)

Australia Skilled Occupation List

The Australia Skilled Occupation List (SOL) is a very important part of the skilled migration program. This list includes the jobs and professions that are in demand in Australia. If your occupation is on this list, you may be eligible to apply for a skilled visa. The government updates the list regularly to make sure it reflects the current needs of the economy and labour market.

Jobs on the list usually include health workers like nurses and doctors, engineers, IT specialists, teachers, and various trades such as electricians, carpenters, and mechanics. The exact list can change from year to year depending on skill shortages.

For example, if Australia needs more nurses, nursing will remain on the list. If the demand goes down, it may be removed.

What qualifications do you need to be a skilled worker?

To qualify as a skilled worker in Australia, you generally need to meet requirements under the General Skilled Migration (GSM) program (Subclass 189, 190, or 491 visas). Here are the key qualifications:

You must be under 45 years old at the time of invitation.

At least 2–3 years of relevant work experience (sometimes more, depending on the occupation).

Usually, a trade certificate, diploma, or degree relevant to your nominated occupation.

Your job must be on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL) or relevant state/territory occupation list.
You need a positive skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority for your nominated occupation.

Minimum competent English (IELTS 6.0 in each band or equivalent in PTE/TOEFL/OET).
Higher English scores give you more points.

You must score at least 65 points on the points test.
Points are based on age, education, English skills, work experience (Australia & overseas), partner skills, and other factors.

Basic Information to Be Submitted with EOI

When submitting your Expression of Interest (EOI) for a GSM visa, you need to include:

Full name, date of birth, and passport details
Your chosen occupation from the Skilled Occupation List
English language test results (IELTS, PTE, TOEFL, etc.)
Skills assessment from a relevant assessing authority
Work experience and qualifications
Points claimed based on age, education, work history, and more

Note: From 1 July 2014, if a skills assessment is required as part of your visa application, it is valid for only 3 years from the date of issue, unless the assessment authority mentions a shorter validity.

General Skilled Migration Visa Subclasses

1. Subclass 189 – Skilled Independent Visa

Permanent visa for skilled workers who are not sponsored by a state or family member.

2. Subclass 190 – Skilled Nominated Visa

Permanent visa for skilled workers nominated by a state or territory government.

3. Subclass 491 – Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa

Temporary visa for skilled workers nominated by a state/territory or sponsored by family in regional Australia. Valid for 5 years.

4. Subclass 191 – Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) Visa

A permanent visa available for holders of the 491 visa after meeting residency and income requirements.

What is the age limit for general skilled migration Australia?

The age limit for General Skilled Migration is under 45 years at the time you receive an invitation to apply for the visa.

If you are planning a move to Australia, working with a trusted migration expert can help you understand your best options. At GIEC GLOBAL Australia, our experienced migration agents in Melbourne specialize in skilled visas. We can assess your eligibility and provide expert guidance through the entire process.