SKILLED VISA AUSTRALIA
How McSweeney immigration helps with your Australian skilled visa
The Skilled Visa program is one of the most popular pathways to permanent residency in Australia. Designed for individuals with specific skills and qualifications, this visa allows applicants to live and work in Australia, contributing to the country's growing economy. Whether you're a skilled worker, professional, or tradesperson, a skilled visa can offer you the opportunity to build a new life in one of the world’s most desirable destinations.
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At McSweeney Immigration, we specialize in guiding skilled professionals through the application process for Australia’s skilled migration visas. Our experienced migration agent will help you determine your eligibility, submit the right documents, and navigate the complexities of the Australian immigration system.
What is a Skilled Visa in Australia?
Australia’s skilled visa program is designed to attract professionals with in-demand skills needed in the Australian labour market. These skilled migration visas allow successful applicants to live and work in Australia permanently or temporarily, depending on the visa subclass.
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Key Skilled Visa Subclasses Include:
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1. Subclass 189: Skilled Independent Visa
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Permanent residency for skilled workers who are not sponsored by an employer, family member, or state/territory.
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You must have an occupation on Australia’s Skilled Occupation List (SOL).
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You will need to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) via SkillSelect.
2. Subclass 190: Skilled Nominated Visa
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Permanent residency for skilled workers who are nominated by a state or territory government.
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Requires an EOI submission, and you must meet the points test, which is based on your age, education, work experience, and language proficiency.
3. Subclass 491: Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa
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Temporary visa for skilled workers who want to live and work in regional Australia.
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It allows the holder to live and work in designated regional areas for up to 5 years, with a pathway to permanent residency.
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Requires sponsorship by an eligible relative or nomination from a state or territory government. ​
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Each subclass has different eligibility criteria, application requirements, and benefits, which we help you understand thoroughly.
Skilled Visa Points Test & Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for a skilled visa in Australia, applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria, including:
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Skilled Occupation: Your occupation must be on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL) or the Short-term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL).
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Age: You must generally be under the age of 45 when you apply.
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English Language Proficiency: You must demonstrate a sufficient level of English proficiency through a recognized test (e.g., IELTS, PTE).
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Skills Assessment: You must have your skills assessed by a relevant assessing authority for your occupation.
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Work Experience: You must have at least 3 years of work experience in your nominated occupation.
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Points Test: You must score at least 65 points on the points test based on factors such as age, education, work experience, English language proficiency, and more.
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Our team at McSweeney Immigration will carefully evaluate your profile against the points test to advise on the best visa options tailored to your circumstances.
How we Assist with Your Skilled Visa Application
Applying for a skilled visa can be complex and time-sensitive. Our MARA-registered migration agent provides guidance to help meet eligibility criteria;
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Eligibility Assessment: A detailed evaluation of your skills, qualifications, and experience.
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Points Calculation: Accurate calculation of your points score based on your profile.
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Skills Assessment Guidance: Assistance with obtaining required skills assessments from the relevant authorities.
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Document Preparation: Helping you collect and organise all documents to meet visa requirements.
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Application Lodgement: Submission of your Expression of Interest (EOI) via SkillSelect and lodging your visa application.
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Follow-up & Communication: Managing requests for further information from the Department of Home Affairs.
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Post-Visa Advice: Guidance on your rights, responsibilities, and settlement in Australia.
Why Choose us for Skilled Migration Australia?
> Registered MARA Agent: Fully registered migration agent committed to ethical and professional service.
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> Proven Track Record: We’ve supported many clients across industries like IT and healthcare.
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> Personalised Service: Tailored advice based on your unique circumstances to maximise points and minimise delays.
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> Up-to-Date Immigration Knowledge: Constantly updated on the latest migration laws and policies.
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> Transparent Fees: Clear pricing with no hidden costs.
Common Skilled Visa Challenges & How we help
Applying for a skilled visa can involve pitfalls such as incomplete documentation, miscalculated points, or delays with skills assessments. At McSweeney Immigration, we proactively manage these risks by:
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Providing a detailed checklist tailored to your occupation
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Verifying all documents before submission
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Communicating with relevant authorities on your behalf
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Keeping you informed every step of the way
Frequently Asked Questions About Skilled Visas
Is 70 points enough for a 189 visa?
While 65 points is the minimum to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI), invitations for the subclass 189 visa typically require a higher score due to demand. Scoring 70 points improves your chances but is not a guaranteed cutoff since points thresholds change based on occupation demand and applicant competition.
What is the age limit for a skilled visa in Australia?
Applicants must be under 45 years old at the time of receiving an invitation to apply for most skilled visa subclasses including 189, 190, and 491.
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Which skills have the most demand in Australia?
Australia’s Skilled Occupation Lists are updated regularly. Occupations in healthcare, engineering, information technology, construction, and trades are consistently in high demand. We can assist you in determining if your occupation is eligible.​
Ready to Start Your Skilled Migration to Australia?
Skilled migration requirements can be complex. Contact us today for a skilled visa eligibility assessment. Our migration agent will provide you with honest advice and personalised assistance to help you achieve your Australian skilled migration goals.