The Department of Home Affairs recently released the list of occupations invited for the 189 visa in the SkillSelect invitation round held on 5 September 2024. In this round, 7,973 Expressions of Interest (EOIs) were invited, which is nearly half of the total available quota for the 2024-25 financial year, set at 16,900.

Over 140 different occupations were invited, with points ranging from 65 to 115. 

No invitations were issued for the 491 Skilled Work Regional Family Sponsored visa in this round. 

Here's a summary of some key industries and the minimum points required:

Construction Trades:

Carpenters, Electricians, Painters, Joiners, Plumbers, and Glaziers were all invited with a minimum of 65 points. 

This is good news for tradespeople, as these are some of the lowest point requirements in this round.

Teaching:

Early Childhood (Pre-primary School) Teachers and Secondary School Teachers needed a minimum of 75 points to receive an invitation.

Healthcare:

• Registered Nurses: 75 points.

• Midwives: 75 points.

• General Practitioners: 75 points.

• Social Workers: 75 points.

• Clinical Psychologists: 85 points.

• Nursing Clinical Directors: 115 points.

Engineering:

Civil and Mechanical Engineers were invited with 90 points.

Information Technology:

• ICT Business Analysts and Analyst Programmers were invited with 90 points.

• Developer Programmers: 100 points.

Other occupations:

• Chefs: 90 points.

• University Lecturers: 90 points.

• Accountants: 95 points.

What this means for applicants

The lower the points requirement, the better the chances of receiving an invitation. In this round, construction trades had the lowest point requirement at 65, followed by healthcare and teaching professions at 75, and then moving to higher points for engineers, ICT professionals, and accountants.

How to apply for the 189 Skilled Independent Visa?

1. Your occupation must be on the Medium-Term occupation list

2. Obtain positive skills assessment and have at least Competent English

3. You must meet minimum 65 points to be able to lodge an expression of interest (EOI)

4. Submit an EOI through SkillSelect

5. If invited, submit visa application within 60 days of receiving an Invitation to Apply and include all supporting documents for the application

Considering other visa options

If your occupation did not get invited, or if the points required are much higher than you can achieve, it might be time to explore alternative visa pathways. Employer-sponsored visas, such as the 482 visa or 494 visa, might be a suitable option for those struggling with the high points threshold in the 189 visa.

Do you need help with your visa application?

Our team of experienced Immigration Lawyers and Migration Agents is ready to assist you with your visa application.

Based in Adelaide, South Australia, we provide Australian immigration advice to people and businesses from all over the world.

You can book an appointment online or call us at (+61) 8 8351 9956.

Source: 

https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/working-in-australia/skillselect/invitation-rounds

In this blog, we will cover the latest Australian immigration news including student visa caps, visa processing times, the 189 visa invitation round, Medicare for temporary visas, Global Talent visa and updates on state nominations.

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Student Visa Cap

The Australian Government has announced a cap on student visas starting in 2025, with a total of 270,000 international students allowed to study in Australia, a reduction of 53,000 from the previous year.

The cap breakdown is as follows:

• 145,000 new student visas for public universities

• 30,000 for other universities and non-university higher education providers

• 90,000 for the vocational education and training (VET) sector

Exemptions:

• School students

• Higher degree by research programs

• English-language providers (ELICOS)

• Non-award programs

Potential Impact:

• Harder to get enrolment for vocational and university courses in Australia.

• Less enrolments for prestigious universities in Melbourne and Sydney.

• Some students may have their enrolments withdrawn before the visa is granted and not get the visa. 

• More enrolments for regional universities.

• It will be harder to do a second or third course once in Australia. For example, if you enter Australia as an English student and then want to apply for a VET course.  

• No caps at all for English courses or school students, so these will become more popular.

If you have any questions or need assistance with your Australian visa application, feel free to book an appointment. 

189 Invitation Round

A new 189 visa invitation round took place on 5 September 2024. The occupations invited include Teachers, Engineers, General Practitioners, Accountants, and trades.

Here are some key points from this round:

• Painting Trades Workers and Carpenters: Invited with 65 points 

• Construction Managers: Invited with 75 points 

• Medical Practitioners: Invited with 80 points 

• Architects: Invited with 75 points 

Both onshore and offshore applicants were invited. Click here to check all the occupations invited. 

State Nomination 190 and 491 Visa Updates

Most states have opened for Expressions of Interest (EOI) and Registrations of Interest (ROI) submissions, with New South Wales opening in October.

This year, some states are moving away from prioritising high points, focusing instead on factors such as:

• Salary

• Relevant work experience

• English proficiency

• Partner skills

• Education level

• ANZSCO classification

Click here to learn more about the 190 Visa. 

Click here to learn more about the 491 Visa. 

Temporary Visas Eligible for Medicare

All permanent visas can enrol in Medicare, but did you know that some temporary visas can also enrol in Medicare?

Temporary visas eligible for Medicare:

• 494 Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional visa

• 491 Skilled Work Regional visa

• Onshore Parent visas

• Onshore provisional partner visas

• Protection visa (subclass 785)

Check the full list here. 

VETASSESS Processing Times

VETASSESS has reduced the processing time for skills assessments in professional and non-trade occupations. The typical processing time has decreased from 10-15 weeks to 8-10 weeks.

Global Talent Updates

The Global Talent Visa is expected to close in late 2024, with the National Innovation Visa set to replace it.

Here are some recent updates regarding the Global Talent Visa:

• We are still successfully receiving invitations for our clients.

• There have been reports of quick Expression of Interest rejections, sometimes as fast as two weeks for some applicants.

• Current visa processing times for the Global Talent Visa are estimated between 9 to 12 months.

• The Department of Home Affairs is increasingly checking the credentials of nominators and referees, with more scrutiny than before.

Visa Processing Times (September 2024)

Here are the current processing times for some key visas:

• 190 visa: 50% processed in 16 months, 90% in 17 months

• 491 visa: 50% processed in 17 months, 90% in 23 months

• 482 visa (Short and Medium Term): 50% in 1 month, 90% in 5 months

• 186 Transition Pathway: 50% in 6 months, 90% in 14 months

• 820 Provisional Onshore Partner visa: 50% processed in 12 months, 90% in 26 months

• 801 Permanent Onshore Partner visa: 50% processed in 11 months, 90% in 30 months

Check all the visa processing times here. 

Do you need help to apply for an Australian Visa?

If you need assistance with applying for an Australian visa, please contact us.

You can book an appointment online or call us at (+61) 8 8351 9956.

Our team of experienced Immigration Lawyers and Migration Agents look forward to assisting you with your visa application.

Based in Adelaide, South Australia, we provide Australian immigration advice to people and businesses from all over the world.

Book an Appointment

Sources: 

https://ministers.education.gov.au/clare/improving-sustainability-international-education

https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/working-in-australia/skillselect/invitation-rounds

https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-processing-times/global-visa-processing-times

https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/enrolling-medicare-if-youre-temporary-resident-covered-ministerial-order?context=60092

https://www.vetassess.com.au/news/shorter-assessment-times-for-professional-and-general-occupations

Choosing the right migration path to Australia can be challenging, particularly when deciding between points-based visas like the 189, 190, 491, and employer-sponsored options such as the 482, 494 visa. This blog will explore each of these pathways, highlighting their unique benefits and why it might be wise to consider pursuing multiple options simultaneously.

Points-Based Visas VS Employer Sponsorship:

Points-Based Visas (189, 190, 491):

These visas provide pathways to work and live in Australia, often leading to permanent residency. They require applicants to meet specific criteria, including a points test, to receive an invitation to apply. Let's look at each visa:

1. 189 Visa - Skilled Independent Visa: A permanent visa that does not require sponsorship from a state, territory, or employer. This visa allows skilled workers to live and work anywhere in Australia. To apply, you need a positive skills assessment, at least competent English, and a minimum of 65 points. Higher points improve your chances of receiving an invitation.
2. 190 Visa - Skilled Nominated Visa: Similar to the 189 visa, but with the requirement of a nomination by an Australian state or territory. This visa grants permanent residency, with the condition that you commit to living and working in the nominating state or territory for 2 years.
3. 491 Visa - Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa: A temporary visa for skilled workers willing to live and work in regional Australia. It requires nomination by a state or territory government or sponsorship by an eligible family member in a designated regional area. This visa lasts five years and provides a pathway to permanent residency after three years.

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Why Consider Points-Based Visas?

Points-based visas offer freedom and flexibility, allowing visa holders to live and work anywhere in Australia (for the 189 visa) or in designated areas (for the 190 and 491 visas). These visas are particularly appealing as they do not rely solely on securing a job offer from an employer, offering more personal and professional independence.

Challenges with Points-Based Visas:

While attractive, these visas come with the challenge of uncertainty. The process requires submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI) and waiting for an invitation, which is not guaranteed. If you are on a temporary visa in Australia, the waiting period may result in your current visa expiring before receiving an invitation, leaving your residency status uncertain.

Employer-Sponsored Visas:

Employer-sponsored visas offer a more predictable route if you can secure a job with an Australian employer willing to sponsor you. Here’s why they might be a good option:

1. 482 Visa - Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa: The most common employer-sponsored visa, allowing skilled workers to work in Australia for two to four years depending on their occupation list (short-term or medium-term). This visa requires a job offer from an Australian employer and compliance with specific work experience requirements.
2. 494 Visa - Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) Visa: A temporary visa designed for skilled workers sponsored by an employer in regional Australia. This visa can lead to permanent residency after three years, provided the visa holder meets specific criteria such as maintaining employment in the regional area. The 494 visa combines the benefits of employer sponsorship with a regional focus, making it a viable option for those looking to settle outside major cities.

Why Consider Employer Sponsorship?

If you secure an employer willing to sponsor you, you don't have to wait for a government invitation.

The employer-sponsored process gives more control over the timeline, as the company initiates and handles much of the visa application process, and you don’t need and invitation from a state or territory.

Challenges with Employer Sponsorship:

• Finding a Sponsor: One of the biggest challenges is finding an Australian employer willing to sponsor your visa.

We have a blog with some tips on how to find a sponsor in Australia. Click here to read.

• Costs and Complexity: Employer-sponsored visas involve multiple stages, including nomination, sponsorship, and visa application, making the process both costly and complex.

Should You Go for Points-Based Visas or Employer Sponsorship?

We recommend pursuing both points-based and employer-sponsored pathways. While points-based visas offer more freedom, they come with the uncertainty of waiting for an invitation.

Employer sponsorship provides a more direct route, offering job security and control over the migration process.

Balancing both options maximizes your chances of successfully migrating to Australia.

Each pathway has its benefits and challenges, and the best choice will depend on your individual circumstances, occupation, and current visa status. Consulting with a migration expert can help you make informed decisions and tailor your approach to meet your personal and professional goals.

Do You Need Help to Apply for an Australian Visa? 

If you need assistance with applying for a 189, 190, 491, 482, 494 or another Australian visa, please contact us.

You can book an appointment online or call us at (+61) 8 8351 9956.

Our team of experienced Immigration Lawyers and Migration Agents look forward to assisting you with your visa application.

Based in Adelaide, South Australia, we provide Australian immigration advice to people and businesses from all over the world.

Book an Appointment

Sources: 

https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/skilled-independent-189

https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/skilled-nominated-190

https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/skilled-work-regional-provisional-491

https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/temporary-skill-shortage-482

https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/skilled-employer-sponsored-regional-494

South Australia has officially launched its 2024-2025 General Skilled Migration program, presenting new opportunities for skilled workers looking to migrate to Australia. This program offers nominations for the 190 Skilled Nominated Visa and the 491 Skilled Work Regional Visa, targeting various professions across multiple streams.

Program Overview

For the 2024-2025 program year, South Australia has allocated a total of 3,800 visa nomination places: 3,000 for the 190 visa and 800 for the 491 visa.

This year, 464 occupations are available for onshore applicants, a slight decrease from the 503 occupations offered last year. The focus remains on attracting skilled migrants who can contribute to South Australia’s economy and community.

What Are the 190 and 491 Visas?

• The 190 Skilled Nominated Visa allows nominated skilled workers to live and work in Australia as permanent residents.
• The 491 Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa is for skilled individuals nominated by a state or territory government to live and work in regional Australia. It is a 5-year visa, and applicants can apply for permanent residence after 3 years from the time the visa is granted.

To apply for either the 190 or 491 visa, candidates must be invited by a state or territory.

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Streams and Eligibility

South Australia’s General Skilled Migration program offers four nomination streams, each with specific eligibility requirements:

1. Skilled Employment in South Australia Stream:

This stream is designed for individuals currently living and working in South Australia.

Requirements:

• Occupation must be on South Australia’s Skilled Occupation List.
• Full-time employment for at least 12 months in a job related to the nominated occupation, working at least 30 hours per week.
• Must be under 45 years old.
• Valid and positive skills assessment for the nominated occupation.
• Have at least Competent English.
• Have at least 65 points in the Department of Home Affairs’ points test.

2. South Australian Graduates Stream:

This stream is designed for individuals that have studied in South Australia and are currently living and working in South Australia.

Requirements:

• Have the occupation on South Australia Occupation List. 
• Have completed at least 75% of your qualification in South Australia.
• Resided in South Australia for at least one year during studies.
• Have been residing and working in South Australia for at least the last 6 months. The employment must be full-time (at least 30 hours per week), related to the nominated occupation, and at the same skill level.
• Be under 45 years old.
• Have a valid and positive skills assessment for your nominated occupation. 
• Have at least Competent English.
• Have at least 65 points in the Department of Home Affairs’ points test.

3. Outer Regional Skilled Employment Stream:

This stream caters to those living and working in Outer Regional South Australia such as Mount Gambier, Port Lincoln and Por Augusta.

Here you can check all the post codes that are Outer Regional South Australia.

Requirements:

• Have the occupation on SA Occupation List.
• Have been employed full-time in their nominated occupation for at least 9 The job must involve working at least 30 hours per week and be related to the nominated occupation.
• Your job needs to be directly related to your nominated occupation and should match the skill level required for that occupation. For South Australian nomination, this typically means your job should fall within the same Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO) Sub-Major Group, as indicated by the first two digits of the ANZSCO code.
• Be under 45 years old.
• Have a valid and positive skills assessment for your nominated occupation.
• Have at least Competent English.
• Have at least 65 points in the Department of Home Affairs’ points test.

4. Offshore Stream:

Offshore applicants seeking to move to South Australia can also apply. The first step for these applicants is to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect, ensuring that South Australia is selected as the preferred state or territory.

How to Apply for the 190 or 491 Visa in South Australia

The first step is to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) and a Registration of Interest (ROI) and wait to potentially be invited.

If you are interested in applying for a nomination through South Australia’s General Skilled Migration program, it is crucial to ensure that you meet the specific requirements of your chosen stream.

If you need assistance with your EOI and ROI, please contact us.

You can book an appointment online or call us at (+61) 8 8351 9956.

Our team of experienced Immigration Lawyers and Migration Agents look forward to assisting you with your visa application.

Based in Adelaide, South Australia, we provide Australian immigration advice to people and businesses from all over the world.

Book an Appointment

Sources: 

https://www.migration.sa.gov.au/news-events/south-australias-2024-2025-general-skilled-migration-program-now-open

https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/what-we-do/migration-program-planning-levels

The Department of Home Affairs has officially released the 2024–25 state and territory nomination allocations for the 190 and 491 visas.

Overall, there is an increase compared with 2023-2024, which is good news for those looking to migrate to Australia.

Subclass 190 Skilled Nominated visa

• 2023-2024: 10,300 allocations
• 2024-2025: 16,500 (increased by 60%)

Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491)

• 2023-2024: 6,400 allocations
• 2024-2025: 9,760 (increased by 53%)

Total allocations

• 2023-2024: 16,700
• 2024-2025: 26,260

See the table bellow comparing the 2023-2024 financial year to 2024-2025 financial year.

Detailed State Allocations for 190 & 491 Visas

Tasmania (TAS):

• 190 Visa: Increased from 600 to 2,100 (250%)
• 491 Visa: Increased from 600 to 790 (27%)

Northern Territory (NT):

• 190 Visa: Increased from 250 to 800 (220%)
• 491 Visa: Increased from 400 to 800 (100%)

Western Australia (WA):

• 190 Visa: Increased from 1,500 to 3,000 (100%)
• 491 Visa: Increased from 850 to 2,000 (135%)

South Australia (SA):

• 190 Visa: Increased from 1,100 to 3,000 (173%)
• 491 Visa: Decreased from 1,200 to 800 (-33%)

Australian Capital Territory (ACT):

• 190 Visa: Increased from 600 to 1,000 (67%)
• 491 Visa: Increased from 600 to 800 (33%)

Victoria (VIC):

• 190 Visa: Increased from 2,700 to 3,000 (11%)
• 491 Visa: Increased from 600 to 2,000 (233%)

New South Wales (NSW):

• 190 Visa: Increased from 2,650 to 3,000 (13%)
• 491 Visa: Increased from 1,500 to 2,000 (33%)

Queensland (QLD):

• 190 Visa: Decreased from 900 to 600 (-33%)
• 491 Visa: Decreased from 650 to 600 (-8%)

Why Are These Allocations Important?

The Skilled Independent 189 visa allocations have been nearly halved, from 30,375 in 2023-2024 to only 16,900 for 2024-2025. This significant reduction means that more people will be aiming for state-nominated 190 and 491 visas, making these allocations crucial.

The more state allocations there are, the better your chances of getting a visa.

Analysis and Patterns

The pattern is clear: states defined as regional have received the largest increases in allocations.

The overall strategy appears to focus on increasing the number of 190 PR visas for WA, SA, and NT, while NSW and Victoria saw most of their increases in the regional 491 visa, aimed at dispersing migrants outside Melbourne and Sydney.

Queensland's reduction in numbers was at the request of the QLD government.

It seems the Federal Government is worried about housing shortages and so is looking to give visas for regional areas.

While these allocations won't make everyone happy, they are a significant improvement over the across-the-board 70% reduction from 2022-2023 to 2023-2024 year.

If state nomination isn’t an option for you, consider exploring employer-sponsored visas. Check out our blog on how to find an employer sponsor for more guidance.

Do you need help with your visa application?

Our team of experienced Immigration Lawyers and Migration Agents is ready to assist you with your visa application.

Based in Adelaide, South Australia, we provide Australian immigration advice to people and businesses from all over the world.

You can book an appointment online or call us at (+61) 8 8351 9956.

Sources: 

https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/what-we-do/migration-program-planning-levels

https://www.migration.sa.gov.au/

https://www.migration.tas.gov.au/

https://migration.wa.gov.au/

https://www.act.gov.au/migration/home

https://liveinmelbourne.vic.gov.au/

https://www.nsw.gov.au/visas-and-migration

https://www.migration.qld.gov.au/