General Skilled Migration

Step-by-Step Process – General Skilled Migration (GSM)

The GSM process is common across all GSM visas—Subclass 189 (Skilled Independent), Subclass 190 (State Nominated), and Subclass 491 (Regional Skilled – Provisional)—with minor variations for state or regional nomination.

Step 1: Initial Eligibility Assessment

Assess whether your profile meets basic GSM criteria:

• Age (under 45 at time of invitation)
• Occupation listed on the relevant skilled occupation list
• Minimum points threshold (65 points)
• English language eligibility
• Ability to obtain a positive skills assessment

👉 This step determines which GSM route(s) may be suitable.

Step 2: Skills Assessment

Obtain a positive skills assessment from the relevant Australian assessing authority for your nominated occupation.

• Assessment is based on qualifications, work experience, and professional standing
• Mandatory for all GSM visas
• Validity varies by assessing authority

👉 Without a positive skills assessment, GSM applications cannot proceed.

Step 3: English Language Test

Appear for an approved English language test such as IELTS, PTE Academic, TOEFL iBT, or equivalent.

• Higher English scores contribute to higher points
• Minimum English level required for eligibility
• Results must be valid at time of invitation

Step 4: Points Calculation & Strategy

Calculate your GSM points based on:

• Age
• English proficiency
• Skilled employment (overseas/Australian)
• Educational qualifications
• Australian study or regional study (if applicable)
• State or family sponsorship (for 190/491)

👉 Strategic planning at this stage helps select the most viable GSM route.

Step 5: Expression of Interest (EOI) Submission

Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect, indicating:

• Nominated occupation
• Points claimed
• Visa subclasses (189 / 190 / 491)
• Preferred states or regions (if applicable)

👉 EOI is not a visa application; it places your profile in the selection pool.

Step 6A: State/Territory Nomination (Subclass 190 & 491 Only)

For state-nominated routes:

• Submit a nomination application to the relevant state or territory
• Meet state-specific criteria (occupation demand, work experience, job offer, residency commitment)
• Receive nomination approval

👉 State nomination adds additional points and improves invitation chances.

Step 6B: Family Sponsorship (Subclass 491 Only – If Applicable)

For family-sponsored regional route:

• Eligible family member must reside in designated regional Australia
• Sponsorship must meet statutory requirements

Step 7: Invitation to Apply (ITA)

Applicants with competitive profiles receive an Invitation to Apply from the Australian Government.

• Invitations are issued through periodic rounds
• Points ranking and occupation ceilings apply
• Invitation timelines vary significantly

👉 Only invited applicants can lodge a visa application.

Step 8: Visa Application Lodgement

Lodge the visa application within the specified timeframe after receiving an ITA.

Includes:

• Personal and identity documents
• Skills assessment and English results
• Employment and qualification evidence
• Health and character checks

Step 9: Health & Character Clearances

Complete:

• Medical examinations through approved clinics
• Police clearance certificates from relevant countries

👉 Mandatory for all GSM applicants and dependents.

Step 10: Visa Grant Outcome

For Subclass 189 & 190

• Direct grant of Permanent Residency
• Access to Medicare, work rights, and settlement benefits

For Subclass 491

• Grant of 5-year provisional visa
• Commitment to live and work in regional Australia
• Pathway to PR via Subclass 191

Step 11: Post-Grant Compliance & PR Pathway (491 Only)

• Meet residence and income requirements
• Apply for Permanent Residence (Subclass 191) after eligibility period