The Australian qualification-based residence visa used to be the most popular choice among immigrants to Australia. However, recently, the Department of Immigration and Citizenship has placed greater emphasis on employer-sponsored visas.

Despite this shift, qualification-based residence visas are still available to highly qualified professionals, and we would like to provide you with general information on this topic. 

The evaluation of visa applications is based on a score system, and applicants must also meet basic eligibility requirements. The list of eligible skills (STSOL) is long, but only those can apply independently whose qualifications are on the shorter skilled occupation list (MLTSSL) .

There are two pathways to obtaining a qualification-based residence visa: independently or through state sponsorship. If somebody is not eligible for independent application for residence (the applicant does not score high enough or their occupation is not on the independent list), state sponsorship may be an alternative solution.

Australia’s six states and two territories can independently sponsor professionals who are willing to reside there, with the primary condition that the applicant agrees to live and work in the sponsoring state or territory for a previously determined period. State sponsorship may provide additional points in the score-based assessment process. Each state and territory is free to determine whom they sponsor and under what conditions, compiling their own lists of eligible occupations.

As of July 1, 2012, the SkillSelect system has been in effect. This selection system means that only those invited through this scheme are eligible to submit a visa application to the Department of Immigration and Citizenship.

To find out about your chances and possible options, make sure to contact us!