A component of Australia’s skilled migration programme, skill Nominated Visas enable skilled workers to migrate to Australia in accordance with their qualifications and vocation, thereby addressing skill shortages in the labour market. In order to be eligible for these visas, an applicant must be sponsored by a family member who meets the requirements or nominated by a state or territory government in Australia, proving their capacity to support the country’s economy and society.

Key Types of Skill Nominated Visas:

1. Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190): The Skilled Nominated Visa is for skilled workers nominated by a state or territory government in Australia. It requires applicants to meet the nomination criteria of the relevant state or territory and have skills and qualifications listed on the Consolidated Skilled Occupation List (CSOL).
2. Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491): The Skilled Work Regional Visa is for skilled workers nominated by a state or territory government or sponsored by an eligible relative in a designated regional area of Australia. It allows holders to live and work in a specified regional area for up to five years, with pathways to permanent residency.

Benefits of Skill Nominated Visas:

• Opportunities for employment in a variety of areas and industries.
• Routes to citizenship and permanent residence for qualified candidates.
• Access to top-notch lifestyle facilities, education, and medical treatment.
• Possibilities for career and personal development.
• The right to bring qualifying family members to Australia as dependents who go with you.

Application Process:

1. Skills Assessment: Determine whether your skills and qualifications are suitable for migration to Australia by undergoing a skills assessment through a relevant assessing authority.
2. Expression of Interest (EOI): If applying for a points-based visa, submit an Expression of Interest through the online SkillSelect system, indicating your interest in migrating to Australia and providing details of your skills, qualifications, and work experience.
3. Nomination by State or Territory: If nominated by a state or territory government, you will receive an invitation to apply for the Skilled Nominated Visa. This requires you to meet the nomination criteria of the relevant state or territory and provide evidence of your commitment to living and working in the nominating state or territory.
4. Visa Application: Once nominated, complete the visa application form accurately and truthfully, providing all required information and supporting documents, including evidence of your skills assessment, English language proficiency, and financial capacity.
5. Health and Character Checks: Undergo health examinations and provide police clearance certificates to satisfy health and character requirements.
6. Awaiting a Decision: Once the application is submitted, await a decision from the Department of Home Affairs. Processing times may vary depending on the visa subclass and individual circumstances.
7. Visa Grant: If the application is successful, you will be granted the relevant Skill Nominated Visa, allowing you to live and work in Australia as nominated by the state or territory government.

For talented workers looking to relocate to Australia, Skill Nominated Visas provide a chance at success. Regardless of your experience level or background, there is a subclass of the Skill Nominated Visa that can be a good fit for your goals and credentials. Gaining knowledge of the available visa alternatives and prerequisites will enable you to apply for a visa with assurance and realise your full potential to prosper in Australia’s friendly and vibrant community.