The Australian skilled Migrant Visa is a unique visa intended to attract the brightest individuals who can make significant contributions to Australia's economy. Australia is one of the top destinations for immigrants due to its diverse culture and its high-salary jobs. Australia's Foreign policy welcomes immigrants and provides the option of becoming an Australian citizen after certain conditions have been met.   

The Australian Visa and Immigration offers different types of  Visas depending on the circumstances. One of these visa categories is the skilled Migrant Visa, for foreigners who want to live permanently in Australia. Employed and self-employed business owners with an annual revenue under AUD 500,000 and an equity of AUD 800,000 are eligible for the skilled immigrant visa.

Australian Visas are issued through a points-based testing system. Applicants are required to attain the minimum amount of points to be considered eligible for the Visa. Points are obtained by fulfilling the requirements of the Visa Applicants. The minimum point is 65 to be issued a Visa. These requirements Include; the applicant is within the age range of 18-44, English language proficiency is satisfactory and the applicant is in good health and does not have a criminal record.

TYPES OF SKILLED MIGRANT VISA

The skilled Migrant Visa is divided into two main categories.

          - Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)

          - Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)

 

Skilled Independent Visa Subclass 189

The Skilled Independent Visa applies to migrants that seek to pursue a job in Australia under the “medium and long term strategic skills list". This refers to a category of jobs experiencing a shortage of labor. The skilled Independent Visa allows the migrants to live, work, and study in Australia permanently. It also permits the Visa Holder to bring dependents for an additional fee in the Visa application process. The Visa currently costs AUD 4,045 for individual applications. for dependents over 18, an additional fee of AUD 2,020, and for individuals under age 18, the fee of AUD 1,105.

Skilled Nominated Visa Subclass 190.

Like the Independent Visa, the Nominated Visa is also for migrants who seek jobs that have labor shortages. However, this type of Visa is sponsored by the states of Australia individually based on the jobs that need more manpower. The Skilled nominated Visa can also be applicable when a candidate does not acquire the minimum points on the points-based system. Such a person can claim points by state nomination or by a first-degree relative. 

HOW TO GET YOUR MIGRANT VISA

All Visa applications are processed through the Department of Home Affairs. Australian Visa is highly competitive due to the vast opportunities Australia provides. The following are the necessary steps to get a Skilled Migrant Visa. 

          - Fill out an Expression of Interest (EOI) form: An EOI is a series of questions that assess your skills and experiences. The answers you give are used to calculate your ability to meet the points test for certain visas.

          - Await an Invitation from the Department of Home Affairs: The Department notified you when they received your EOI via email and invited you to submit your application online. The Department of Home Affairs allocates 60 days for you to submit the necessary documents. These include; Proof of Identity, English proficiency Results, Partners and dependent documents (as the case may be), skill assessment records, and EOI documents 

          - Visa Application: Upon the assessment of your documents and credentials, the Visa application begins. This usually takes months or weeks depending on your type of Visa. The skilled Migrant Visa takes up to 2-4 months after the application

          - Confirmation and Bridging Visa: At this stage, all documentation and consent have outlined it   

          - Visa decision: Within the expected duration of Visa processing time A notification will be sent If the Visa has been approved or denied.

In conclusion, Australia is the smallest, and yet one of the most iconic continents in the world. The skilled Migrant Visa offers a window of opportunity to explore a diverse culture,  enjoy the security of a high-paying job, and cater to the needs of your family. Australia provides a safe and interactive environment for business owners and industry giants to share knowledge. After all the requirements have been met, the applicant is eligible to apply for an Australian Citizenship.