Guide to GSM Visa for Australia – Subclasses, Requirements & State Nominations

The General Skilled Migration (GSM) visa program is one of the most sought-after pathways for skilled workers who wish to live and work in Australia permanently. It operates through a points-based system and is designed to attract highly skilled professionals who can contribute to the Australian economy.

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about GSM visas, including their subclasses, eligibility criteria, points test, state and territory nominations, and specific requirements for both onshore and offshore applicants. The guide is also optimized for GSM Visa Australia, Skilled Migration Visa, Subclass 189 Visa, Subclass 190 Visa, Subclass 491 Visa, Australia PR Visa, Points-based Visa Australia, State Nomination Visa, Skilled Worker Visa Australia, and Australia Immigration to help individuals find the best visa options.

Table of Contents

1. Introduction to GSM Visa
2. GSM Visa Subclasses and Their Requirements
   • Subclass 189 (Skilled Independent Visa)
   • Subclass 190 (Skilled Nominated Visa)
   • Subclass 491 (Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa)
3. GSM Visa Eligibility Criteria
   • Points Test
   • Age Limit
   • English Language Requirements
   • Skills Assessment
   • Work Experience
   • Occupation Lists
4. State and Territory Nominations
   • General Requirements for State Nomination
   • State-Specific Nomination Criteria
   • Occupation Field Requirements for State Nominations
5. Application Process for GSM Visas
6. Onshore vs. Offshore GSM Visa Applications
7. Processing Time & Costs
8. Common Reasons for Visa Refusals
9. FAQs on GSM Visa
10. Conclusion

1. Introduction to GSM Visa

The General Skilled Migration (GSM) program is the primary pathway for skilled professionals to gain permanent residency in Australia. It is a points-based visa system that assesses applicants based on their skills, work experience, English proficiency, and other factors. The GSM visa is designed for individuals who do not have an employer sponsor but possess skills that are in demand in Australia. Applicants interested in Australia Visa Requirements and Skilled Migration Program can use this visa pathway to settle permanently in the country.

2. GSM Visa Subclasses and Their Requirements

The GSM program consists of three main visa subclasses:

A. Subclass 189 (Skilled Independent Visa)

This visa is for skilled workers who do not require state or employer sponsorship. It provides permanent residency to successful applicants.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Must have an occupation on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL)
• Meet the minimum 65 points in the points test
• Obtain a positive skills assessment for the nominated occupation
• Be under 45 years of age at the time of invitation
• Demonstrate competent English proficiency (IELTS 6.0 in each band or equivalent)
• Receive an invitation to apply through SkillSelect

Benefits of Subclass 189:

✔️ Permanent Residency in Australia with no sponsorship requirement
✔️ Work and study anywhere in Australia
✔️ Access to Medicare and social benefits

B. Subclass 190 (Skilled Nominated Visa)

This visa requires nomination from an Australian state or territory. It grants permanent residency.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Have an occupation on the MLTSSL or State/Territory Occupation List
• Meet the minimum 65 points, plus state nomination points (usually 5 points)
• Obtain a skills assessment
• Be under 45 years old
• Have competent English proficiency
• Commit to living and working in the nominating state for at least 2 years

Benefits of Subclass 190:

✔️ State Nomination Visa with permanent residency
 ✔️ Priority visa processing
✔️ Additional points for nomination

C. Subclass 491 (Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa)

This 5-year regional visa is for skilled workers who are nominated by a state or sponsored by an eligible family member in a regional area.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Occupation must be on the Regional Occupation List (ROL)
• Score at least 65 points, including 15 points for state nomination
• Obtain a skills assessment
• Be under 45 years old
• Have competent English
• Live and work in a designated regional area for at least 3 years

Pathway to PR (Subclass 191 Visa)

After meeting income and residency requirements, Subclass 491 holders can apply for permanent residency (Subclass 191).

Benefits of Subclass 491:

✔️ Regional Skilled Visa with increased points for state nomination
✔️ Pathway to permanent residency
 ✔️ Priority processing

4. State and Territory Nominations

Each state and territory has its own nomination criteria. The state nomination visa process is crucial for candidates applying for Subclass 190 Visa and Subclass 491 Visa.

A. Occupation Field Requirements for State Nominations

6. Onshore vs. Offshore GSM Visa Applications

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