GENERAL SKILLED MIGRATION VISAS
General Skilled Migration (GSM) visas are points-tested visas for skilled workers who want to live and work in Australia without employer sponsorship.
These visas are managed by the Australian Government and provide pathways to:
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Permanent residence, or
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Provisional residence with a pathway to permanent residence
Before choosing a visa, it is important to understand how GSM works as a system, not just individual visa subclasses.
How the GSM System Works
Under the General Skilled Migration programme:
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Applicants submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect
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They are ranked based on points, occupation, and pathway
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Invitations are issued depending on visa type and availability
GSM visas differ mainly by who supports or nominates the applicant and where they can live and work.
The Main GSM Visa Options
There are three active GSM visa pathways.
Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)
The Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) is for skilled workers who apply independently, without sponsorship.
This visa is suitable if you:
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Are not sponsored by an employer
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Are not nominated by a state or territory
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Do not rely on family sponsorship
Key outcomes:
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Permanent residence
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Live and work anywhere in Australia
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Eligible family members can be included
Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)
The Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190) is for skilled workers who are nominated by a state or territory government.
This visa is suitable if:
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Your occupation is in demand at a state or territory level
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You are willing to be nominated by a specific state or territory
Key outcomes:
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Permanent residence
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Live and work anywhere in Australia
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Eligible family members can be included
Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491)
The Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491) is for skilled workers who are supported at a regional level.
Applicants must be:
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Nominated by a state or territory government, or
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Sponsored by an eligible family member living in a designated regional area
Key outcomes:
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Provisional visa valid for five years
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Must live, work, and study in designated regional areas
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Pathway to permanent residence if requirements are met
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Eligible family members can be included
What Happened to Subclass 489?
The Skilled Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 489) was replaced by the subclass 491 visa on 16 November 2019.
Subclass 489 is no longer granted. All new regional GSM applications use the 491 pathway.
What All GSM Visas Have in Common
Although the visa outcomes differ, all GSM visas share these core elements:
Points Test
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Applicants must meet the minimum points threshold
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Points are based on age, English ability, skills, and other factors
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A minimum of 65 points is required to submit an EOI
SkillSelect
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All GSM visas use SkillSelect
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Invitations are issued based on ranking and visa availability
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Meeting eligibility does not guarantee an invitation
English Language Requirements
English language requirements for GSM visas are set by the Australian Government and may change over time.
Because requirements vary by visa and assessment purpose, applicants should always check official sources directly:
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Department of Home Affairs – Points test
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Visa-specific pages for 189, 190, and 491
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Approved English tests and score equivalency tables
This ensures you are relying on the most current and accurate information.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a points-tested skilled visa?
A points-tested visa requires applicants to meet a minimum score based on factors such as age, English ability, skills, and qualifications.
Do all GSM visas grant permanent residence?
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Subclass 189 and 190 grant permanent residence
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Subclass 491 is provisional, with a pathway to permanent residence
Can family members be included?
Yes. Eligible family members can generally be included in GSM visa applications.
Summary: GSM Visa Comparison
How to Decide Which GSM Visa Fits You
Choosing the right GSM visa depends on:
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Your points score
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Whether you qualify for state nomination
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Whether you have family in regional Australia
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Your occupation and where it is in demand
Applicants should always assess eligibility carefully and refer to official Department of Home Affairs guidance.
Need help with General Skilled Migration?
RACC’s registered migration agents can assess your eligibility, explain suitable GSM pathways, and help prepare applications that meet Australian Government requirements.
CONSULTATION
We give the best advice based on your needs
ASSESSMENT
We assess your points to
ensure you meet the
requirements
PREPARATION
We compile all of your
important documents
APPLICATION
We submit your application
and keep you informed