Skilled Migration to Australia: Visas 189, 190 & 491
Specialized migration advice for skilled professionals. Evaluate your points, skills assessment, and permanent residency options under the GSM program.
General Skilled Migration (GSM)
The points-based pathway for skilled professionals
The General Skilled Migration (GSM) is the Australian Government's points-based visa program for skilled professionals who do not require employer sponsorship. It allows candidates to apply for provisional or permanent residency (subclasses 189, 190, and 491) based on age, qualifications, work experience, and English proficiency.
Evaluated Factors
Visas Within the GSM Program
1. Skilled Independent Visa
Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189)
Migration Pathways
Frequently Asked Questions
Subclass 189
Subclass 189 is a permanent residency visa for skilled workers invited through SkillSelect. It requires no state nomination or employer sponsorship and is based on points scored for age, English, qualifications, and work experience.
No. The Skilled Independent visa does not require state nomination or employer sponsorship. Eligibility relies on your occupation being on the MLTSSL list, a positive Skills Assessment, and your SkillSelect points score.
Candidates submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) in SkillSelect. Invitation rounds are conducted periodically, selecting top-ranking candidates per occupation. The minimum threshold is 65 points, though higher points increase chances.
You must be under 45 years of age at the invitation date, hold an eligible occupation on the MLTSSL list with a positive Skills Assessment, and demonstrate Competent English (e.g. IELTS 6.0 in all bands or equivalent).
Subclass 189 grants permanent residency from approval. It allows you to live, work, and study anywhere in Australia, enroll in Medicare, and apply for Australian citizenship once residence requirements are met.
* General information based on official Australian sources. Eligibility criteria and requirements are subject to change and individual assessment.