"Emigrate with Confidence"

Australian 189 Visas Explored

The 189 visa stands out as Australia’s premier option for skilled workers. Its primary advantage is granting permanent residency upon arrival, providing the holder and their family with long-term security and peace of mind. As a lifetime visa, it allows the holder and their family to live and work anywhere in Australia, access free education, benefit from Medicare, and make pension contributions. Additionally, there are no restrictions on property purchases. Holding a 189 visa means you can truly relax, knowing that Australia is your new home.

Australia Immigration Points System Explained

The Australian General Skilled Immigration System operates on a points-based system, considering factors such as:

  • Age
  • Qualifications
  • English Language Ability
  • Experience in Your Profession
  • Record of Prior Learning in Australia and Offshore
  • Previous Study or Employment in Australia
  • Spouse Skills (if applicable)

You must achieve 65 points to submit an expression of interest. If you do not reach this threshold, you might consider applying for a state-sponsored visa or a 190 visa.

Proposed Changes to Skilled Migration to Australia

The Australian government is currently reviewing the policy of granting permanent residency upon arrival. The proposed changes would introduce a probationary period, requiring new migrants to complete two years in Australia before becoming eligible for permanent residency and its associated benefits. If implemented, these changes would significantly alter the appeal of the 189 visa. Therefore, we recommend filing your case as soon as possible to avoid potential disruptions to your plans.

Learn How to Emigrate as a Skilled Migrant

Securing an 189 visa begins with an invitation to apply from the Expression of Interest (EOI) pool. After submitting an EOI, your immigration case is evaluated based on various criteria set by the Australian Government, including skills, experience, family history, character, and health. Australia is selective about who they invite, and each case is assessed on its individual merits. Presenting your case effectively to the Australian government is crucial for success.

The Easiest Way to Emigrate to Australia

To apply for an 189 visa, your case must be “visa ready” before submission. You must achieve 65 points on the skilled visa calculator (see below) and have a profession listed on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) or the Short-term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL). Your case is then entered into a competitive pool of candidates. Immigration officers review each case thoroughly, and incomplete or unsatisfactory cases are set aside.

This visa allows you to live and work freely in Australia and bring your immediate family, who can also enjoy the benefits of Australian life. Due to high competition and demand, it is essential to ensure your application is comprehensive and well-prepared.

Australia Skilled Worker Visas Statistics

  • 132,000 places available this year for skilled workers in 2024-25
  • 68% of migrants arrive in Australia on this visa
  • 42% of all visa applications are rejected
  • 32% of migrant workers arrive on a Family class visa

Improving Your Australian Immigration Points Score

Certain factors, such as age, are fixed, but others can be improved. For instance, completing an English test to a superior level can add 20 points to your score. We assist our clients in finding suitable test centres and achieving maximum points.

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Skilled Worker Visa Assessments

This area is complex but offers significant opportunities for improvement. It is crucial to present your skills and experience effectively. Our team helps clients showcase their abilities clearly and impressively, ensuring assessors understand the value you bring.

Employment References for Skilled Migration Cases

References must meet Australian employers’ and immigration requirements. We prepare references that not only support but enhance your CV, ensuring they meet the necessary standards.

Other Australian Immigration Factors

Each case is unique, and understanding a person’s history and background fully is vital for developing a winning case. We advise taking the time to build a strong application based on core strengths.

Key Facts About Being a Skilled Migrant in Australia

Understanding Australian work culture is essential for new migrants. Differences include the use of profanity, attitudes towards race, taxi etiquette, and more. For instance, Australians often engage in casual conversation and socializing after work. Additionally, Australia has strict rules and regulations, including workplace safety laws and anti-discrimination policies.

Conclusion

The 189 visa is a robust pathway to permanent residency in Australia for skilled workers. However, with potential changes on the horizon, it is crucial to act promptly. Our team of experts is here to guide you through the process, from submitting your EOI to securing your visa and ensuring a smooth transition to life in Australia.

The Skills Points Test

Australia awards points to determine the suitability of potential skilled migrants.

The minimum required to apply to emigrate is 65 points.

Age

18-24 years = 25 points

25-32 years = 30 points

33-39 years = 25 points

40-44 years = 15 points

English Language Skills

Competent = 0

Proficient = 10

Superior = 20

British & Irish citizens are considered competent

Skilled Employment

Less than 3 years = 0 points

3-5 years = 5 points

5-8 years = 10 points

8+ years = 15 points

Education

Doctorate = 20 points

Bachelors Degree = 15 points

Diploma or Apprenticeship = 10 points

Partners Skills

Qualified with skills in demand and under 45 years  = 10 Points

Competent English = 5 points

You are single = 10 points

Miscellaneous Points

Studied in Australia = 5 points

Completed a professional year in Australia = 5 points

Qualified in a community language = 5 points

Additional Points by Visa Stream

189 Visa

No extra points available

190 Visa

5 extra points

For those nominated by a State Government 

491 Visa

15 extra points

For those nominated by a state government and willing to live in that state for three years

Frequently Asked
Questions

One of the main benefits of the 189 skilled visa is that it provides a pathway to permanent residency in Australia. This means that you and your family can emigrate with the peace of mind that you never need to worry about your emigration status. You can simply live and work in Australia indefinitely without the need for sponsorship.

As a skilled migrant on a 189 visa, you have the freedom to live and work anywhere in Australia. This means that you can choose to live in a city, a regional area, or even a remote location, depending on your preferences and career opportunities.

Australia has a strong economy and a high demand for skilled workers in a range of industries. As a skilled migrant on a 189 visa, you have the same legal rights as an Australian Citizen to access high-paying jobs. Alternately, you can start your own business.

Australia is known for its high quality of life, with excellent healthcare, education, and social services. As a skilled migrant on a 189 visa, you can access these services and enjoy a high standard of living.

Australia’s strong economy and high demand for skilled workers mean that there are many opportunities for career growth and advancement. As a skilled migrant on a 189 visa, you can be confident there is a shortage of your skills across Australia. You will be well placed to take advantage of these opportunities.

The task of demonstrating work experience frequently emerges as a challenging facet of the Assessment protocol. Given the transient nature of employment, one might find past employers or supervisory figures have relocated or moved on. Traditional records such as tax documentation or payslips might be elusive. Instances of self-employment or any gaps in a CV mandate a thorough investigation, often supplemented by Afridavids. Occasionally, the requisition of supplementary corroborative documentation is required.

Australia is home to many world-class universities and vocational education providers. As a skilled migrant on a 189 visa, you and your family can access the educational system from primary schools through to University.

The educational system is on par with or better than the UK. Feel free to further your education and career opportunities.

Similar to 36 countries worldwide, Australia has based its tax laws on the model provided by the UK’s HMRC.

Consequently, Australia uses a progressive tax system where individuals with higher incomes are taxed at a higher rate. Nevertheless, skilled migrants with a 189 visa benefit from relatively advantageous tax rates and deductions, allowing them to save money and accumulate wealth more efficiently.

As an individual with a 189 visa, you possess the same rights as Australian citizens to become the Director and shareholder of your own company.

Australia offers an excellent environment for business, characterized by a supportive atmosphere, availability of capital, and a burgeoning startup scene. If you’re a skilled migrant with this visa, you’re in a prime position to establish your own business in Australia.

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