The Australian 190 Visa, also known as the Skilled Nominated Visa, is a permanent residency visa that allows skilled workers to live and work in Australia. This visa is designed for individuals who have been nominated by an Australian state or territory and meet specific skills, qualifications, and work experience requirements. The 190 Visa plays a crucial role in Australia’s skilled migration program, which is based on a points-based system designed to attract workers who can contribute to the country’s economy.
In this article, we will explore the key details of the Australian 190 Visa, including eligibility requirements, benefits, and the application process.
The Points-Based System for Skilled Migration
Australia’s skilled migration program is designed to attract highly skilled workers who can contribute to the country’s economy and fill labor shortages in various sectors. The 190 Visa falls under this broader skilled migration program and is governed by a points-based system.
To be eligible for a skilled migration visa, applicants must accumulate a minimum number of points based on several criteria such as age, English language proficiency, work experience, education, and other factors. The Australian government uses this points system to ensure that applicants possess the skills and qualifications that are in demand in the Australian labor market.
For the 190 Visa, applicants must achieve at least 65 points to be eligible to apply. However, securing more points increases an applicant’s chances of receiving an invitation to apply for the visa.
Key Factors That Affect the Points Calculation:
- Age: Applicants between the ages of 25 and 32 receive the maximum points. Points decrease as applicants get older, with fewer points available for those over 40.
- English Language Proficiency: High levels of English proficiency, demonstrated through tests such as IELTS or PTE, can earn significant points.
- Work Experience: Points are awarded based on the applicant’s years of skilled work experience, with more points for longer periods of experience in a nominated occupation.
- Educational Qualifications: Applicants with higher qualifications, such as a bachelor’s degree or higher, receive more points.
- Other Factors: Additional points can be earned through factors such as studying in Australia, partner skills, and nomination by a state or territory.
Eligibility Criteria for the 190 Visa
To qualify for the Australian 190 Visa, applicants must meet several key eligibility requirements. These requirements include:
1. Skills and Occupation
Applicants must nominate an occupation that is on Australia’s Skilled Occupation List (SOL) or the relevant state or territory list. The occupation must be one that is in demand in the Australian labor market and requires a skills assessment by a recognized authority.
2. Skills Assessment
Applicants must undergo a skills assessment to verify their qualifications and work experience in their nominated occupation. This assessment must be conducted by the appropriate assessing authority recognized by the Australian government for the specific occupation.
3. Age Requirements
Applicants must be under 45 years of age at the time of their invitation to apply. However, applicants aged 25 to 32 are awarded the most points, and those above 40 receive fewer points.
4. English Language Proficiency
Applicants must demonstrate their proficiency in English by taking an approved English language test (e.g., IELTS, PTE). The level of proficiency required varies depending on the occupation and state or territory nomination.
5. State or Territory Nomination
The 190 Visa requires a state or territory nomination. This means that an applicant must be nominated by an Australian state or territory government to apply for this visa. Each state and territory has its own specific requirements and occupation lists.
6. Health and Character Requirements
As part of the application process, applicants must meet health and character requirements. This typically involves undergoing a medical examination and providing police clearance certificates from each country where the applicant has lived for 12 months or more in the past 10 years.
7. Invitation to Apply
Before submitting the visa application, applicants must first submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through the SkillSelect system. Based on the points score and other factors, applicants may receive an invitation to apply for the visa.
Benefits of the 190 Visa
The Australian 190 Visa offers several benefits, making it a highly sought-after option for skilled workers seeking permanent residency in Australia.
1. Permanent Residency
The 190 Visa grants holders permanent residency in Australia. This allows visa holders to live, work, and study anywhere in the country without any restrictions. As permanent residents, applicants can also sponsor family members for immigration.
2. Work and Live in Australia
Visa holders can work for any employer in their nominated occupation or other skilled positions. This visa also provides the flexibility to live in any state or territory in Australia, although there are conditions attached to this requirement (discussed below).
3. Access to Public Healthcare and Education
As permanent residents, 190 Visa holders have access to Australia’s public healthcare system (Medicare), which provides free or subsidized medical treatment. Additionally, permanent residents are eligible to access Australian education programs, including subsidized tuition fees at public universities.
4. Pathway to Citizenship
The 190 Visa is a step towards Australian citizenship. After holding the visa for four years, applicants can apply for Australian citizenship, provided they meet residency and other requirements.
5. Social Security Benefits
Permanent residents can access Australian social security benefits, including unemployment benefits, age pensions, and family assistance payments (subject to eligibility).
Conditions and Restrictions of the 190 Visa
Although the 190 Visa provides significant benefits, it comes with certain conditions that applicants must adhere to:
1. Nomination by a State or Territory
The most notable condition of the 190 Visa is that applicants must live and work in the state or territory that nominated them for at least two years after the visa is granted. Failing to meet this requirement could lead to the cancellation of the visa.
2. Work and Residence Obligations
While the visa allows you to live and work in Australia, it also imposes certain residence obligations. Applicants must live in Australia for a majority of the time while holding the visa to maintain their permanent residency status.
Step-by-Step Guide to the 190 Visa Application Process
The application process for the 190 Visa involves several key steps:
1. Eligibility Assessment and Points Calculation
Before applying for the 190 Visa, you should first assess your eligibility by calculating your points. Ensure that your occupation is on the Skilled Occupation List and that you meet the minimum required points (65 points) for the visa.
2. Skills Assessment
Once your occupation and points calculation are in order, the next step is to undergo a skills assessment by a relevant assessing authority. This step is crucial as it verifies your qualifications and work experience in your nominated occupation.
3. Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)
Next, submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through the SkillSelect system. Your EOI will include details about your qualifications, work experience, English language proficiency, and other relevant information.
4. State or Territory Nomination
After submitting your EOI, you must apply for nomination by an Australian state or territory. Each state or territory has its own nomination requirements, so it is essential to review these and apply accordingly. Once nominated, you will receive an invitation to apply for the visa.
5. Visa Application Submission
Once you receive an invitation to apply for the visa, you must submit your visa application online. This application will require documentation such as your skills assessment, English test results, medical records, police clearance certificates, and other supporting documents.
6. Visa Processing and Decision
The Department of Home Affairs will process your application and may request additional information. If successful, you will be granted the 190 Visa, and you can begin your new life in Australia as a permanent resident.
Conclusion
The Australian 190 Visa is an excellent option for skilled workers looking to live and work in Australia. By offering permanent residency, access to healthcare, and the ability to live in any part of Australia, the visa presents a significant opportunity for skilled professionals. However, applicants must meet strict eligibility requirements, including a skills assessment, state or territory nomination, and achieving the necessary points through the points-based system.
By following the steps outlined in the application process and ensuring all eligibility criteria are met, applicants can increase their chances of successfully obtaining this highly desirable visa.
