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Can onshore applicants submit an EOI for different states or for more than one type of visa?

If you're onshore and considering applying for a skilled visa in Australia such as the 189 Visa, 190 Visa and 491 Visa, you might be wondering about submitting Expressions of Interest (EOIs) for different states or multiple visa types.

The process can be a bit complex, but understanding the rules and best practices can help maximize your chances of success.

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In this blog, we'll break down everything you need to know about submitting EOIs for multiple states, different visa types, and the specific processes involved.

Whether you're interested in applying for state nominations or exploring different pathways to permanent residency, this guide will clarify your options and help you navigate the EOI system effectively.

So, the common question that we receive is: "I am onshore, can I submit an EOI for different states or for more than one type of visa?"

State nomination EOI

1. Multiple States

Can you submit EOIs for multiple states?

    • Yes, you can submit EOIs for multiple states, but each EOI must be specific to one state. In other words, you should not select "Any" state or list multiple states in a single EOI. If you do so, many states will not consider your EOI.
    • Best practice: Submit separate EOIs for each state you're interested in. For example, if you want to be considered for state nominations in Victoria and South Australia, you would need to create two separate EOIs—one for each state.

State Eligibility Requirements:

    • Different states have different eligibility criteria, so you need to ensure you meet the requirements of each state you're applying to. Most states and territories require applicants to be currently residing in the region to be eligible for nomination. However, Western Australia (WA) is an exception, as it is currently open to interstate applicants. For other states, if you are living outside the region, you are not eligible.

Points and Residency Considerations:

    • Always ensure your EOI includes the correct details, such as your work experience, education, and other points criteria for each state. Ensure that you claim the right points (based on age, English language proficiency, work experience, Australian studies, etc.).

2. Multiple Visa Types

Can you submit EOIs for multiple visa types?

Yes, you can submit EOIs for different types of skilled visas simultaneously. Some common visa types that you can apply for are:

Eligibility for Multiple Visas:

      • Each visa type has its own eligibility criteria and points requirements. For example, the 189 visa doesn't require state nomination but requires a higher number of points compared to the 190 visa (which includes the nomination points).
      • Before submitting EOIs for multiple visa types, ensure that you meet the eligibility requirements for each. It’s important to check that you meet the criteria for each visa, as well as the criteria for any states or territories you’re applying to.

    3. State-Specific Processes:

    Some states and territories require extra steps in addition to submitting an EOI. Here’s a breakdown:

      • Victoria, South Australia, Tasmania: After submitting your EOI, you also need to register your interest by completing a Register of Interest (ROI). This allows the state to assess your interest in being nominated.
      • Australian Capital Territory (ACT): For ACT, you need to submit a Matrix application (not just an EOI). The Matrix is a points-based system used to assess whether you are eligible for nomination by the ACT Government. If you do not complete these additional processes (ROI or Matrix), your EOI will be essentially inactive in the system and won't be considered until it expires. So make sure to follow through with these steps after submitting your EOI if required.

    4. Managing Your EOIs

    You can manage your EOIs in the Australian Government's SkillSelect system. The system allows you to keep track of the status of each EOI you submit.

      • Can you update your EOI? Yes, you can update your EOI at any time before you receive an invitation to apply. For example, you may want to update your EOI if you gain more work experience, improve your English language test score, or change your state preferences.
      • Ensure Your EOI is Up-to-Date: If there are significant changes in your circumstances or skills, make sure your EOI reflects this information. It can increase your chances of receiving an invitation from the relevant state or territory.

    EOI application Australia

    Do you need assistance in submitting your EOI?

    Since 2011, Work Visa Lawyers has been assisting thousands of applicants and businesses with immigration matters.

    If you need any help with submitting your EOI or applying for an Australian visa, please book an appointment to discuss your situation.

    Book an Appointment

    Blog author: Wendy Guan – Registered Migration Agent

     

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

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

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

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

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

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

    https://theterritory.com.au/

     

     

     

     
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    189 Invitation Round 2024

    Check the November 2024 189 Invitation Round here

    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. 

    Construction trades Australia

    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
    1. Obtain positive skills assessment and have at least Competent English
    1. You must meet minimum 65 points to be able to lodge an expression of interest (EOI)
    1. Submit an EOI through SkillSelect
    1. 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

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    South Australia Now Open for Offshore Applications

    South Australia Now Open for Offshore Applications

    While Covid is keeping most Australian states and territories closed for offshore applicants, South Australia announced in May 2021 that it is now considering sponsoring offshore applicants for 491 and 190 visas.

     

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    SEPTEMBER 2020 INVITATION ROUND RESULTS – Opportunity for PMSOL & Disappointment for Accountants; ICT Business & System Analysts and Auditors

    SEPTEMBER 2020 INVITATION ROUND RESULTS – Opportunity for PMSOL & Disappointment for Accountants; ICT Business & System Analysts and Auditors

     

    The Department of Home Affairs has released the invitation September 2020 round for Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) and Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491).

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    SkillSelect Invitation Round Results - July & August 2020

    SkillSelect Invitation Rounds in July & August 2020

     

    Here are the results of the 2 most recent SkillSelect invitation rounds in July and August 2020. Chris Johnston comments on the likely future of the subclass 189 and 491 (family-sponsored) visas in the coming months.

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    SkillSelect May & June 2020 Invitation Rounds Affected by COVID-19

    SkillSelect May & June 2020 Rounds

    After months of not releasing the number of invitations issued through SkillSelect, the Department of Home Affairs has finally released the invitation rounds for May and June 2020. Not everyone will be happy with the results.

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    First Invitation Round for New Migration Year 2020-21 (subclass 189 & 491 Family-Sponsored)

    189 and 491 Invitations July 2020

     

    The Department of Home Affairs has sent out the first round of invitations for the 2020-2021 program year on 14 July 2020.

    This first round of invitation for the subclass 189 and 491 (family-sponsored) is a positive indication that the monthly invitation rounds will continue.

    At the current time, the subclass 190 and 491 state sponsored visas are still on hold.

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    Coronavirus (COVID-19) Skillselect round results Devastation - April 2020 – Accountants to 100 points only 50 visa subclass189 offers

    Skillselect April 2020

    Summary and Comments by Chris Johnston, Lawyer and RMA:

    The 11 April 2020 Skillselect round is the first round after the closure of the borders on 20 March 2020.

    So it shows us the policy direction of the Government. The direction is to cut skilled migration dramatically.

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    491 Visa (Skilled Regional) Nomination and Application Success

    Visa 491 banner

    491 Visa - Australian (Skilled Worker Regional) Provisional - Questions and Answers

    As the Visa subclass 491 is still quite a new visa subclass for the Australian Department of Immigration, we have been receiving a huge amount of questions, so we thought we would collate them all in one place. Hopefully you will find these answers useful, if you don’t find the answer to your 491 visa question please email us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

    Living and Working in Regional Australia
    Occupation and Skills
    English Language Skills
    My family and My Visa
    My Health and Character
    Processing Times and Costs
    Moving towards Permanent Residency

     

     

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    Australian Immigration News Video October 2019 - Latest DAMA update, new 491 & 494 visas, and more

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    Australian Skilled Migration Update - September 2019

    Australian Skilled Migration Update - September 2019

    Just three months into the new program year and there are signs that skilled migration invitations are going to be in short supply without a state or territory sponsorship.


    September SkillSelect invitation round

    The latest report on invitations issued by the Department of Home Affairs shows that only 100 were issued for the Skilled Independent subclass 189 visa. This remained at the same level seen in August 2019 but is a significant drop from the 1000 invitations issued in July 2019. The minimum points cut-off score has also increased to 85 points after being at 80 points for the past two months.

    The report also includes invitations issued for the Skilled Regional subclass 489 visa (family sponsored stream). These have remained at 100 invitations, but the minimum cut-off score has also increased to 85 points.

    Occupation specific cut-off scores are also utilised by the Department and several have been increased since the previous round in August. The cut-off score for Accountant has been increased from 85 points to 95 points. Cut-off scores have also been increased for Industrial, Mechanical and Production Engineers (85 points to 95 points), Other Engineering Professionals (90 points to 95 points) and Computer Network Professionals (80 points to 85 points).

     

    Our view

    The report does not include invitations issued by state and territory governments for the state/territory sponsored version of the Skilled Regional subclass 489 visa (soon to be 491 visa) or the Skilled Nominated (permanent residency) subclass 190 visa.

    While many applicants may have a preference for and might meet the minimum requirements for the Skilled Independent subclass 189 visa, the state or territory sponsorship pathway might be the only way to secure a visa without a long wait (or risk missing out entirely).

     

    Do you need help with an Australian visa application?

    At Work Visa Lawyers we are experienced in assisting applicants in all matters relating to Australian visa applications. Our areas of expertise include Partner Visas, Skilled Migration visas, Business Skills Migration visas, Employer Sponsored Work Visas and other Family Migration visas as well as the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT) Review, Judicial Review and Ministerial Intervention.

    If you require further information regarding your Australia visa options you can contact us through:

    (08) 8351 9956 or +61 8 8351 9956 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

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    What we know about changes to the skills points test, including partner points

    What we know about changes to the skills points test, including partner points

    In April we outlined new details on several regional visas to be introduced on 16 November 2019. Coinciding with these new visas are changes to the existing points test for skilled migration.

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    Australian SkillSelect Round Results 2019/2020 - Skilled Independent Visa & Regional Visa Occupation Lists

    Australian SkillSelect Round Results 2019/2020 - Skilled Independent Visa & Regional Visa Occupation Lists

     Skill Select Round Results

    The Most Recent Australian SkillSelect Invitation Round Results for 2019/2020 program year, Occupation Lists for the Skilled - Independent Visa (subclass 189) and Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491)

    (This article was originally posted as "The Most Recent Australian SkillSelect Invitation Round Results for 2018/2019 program year, Occupation Lists for the Skilled - Independent Visa (subclass 189) and Skilled – Regional Visa (Provisional) (subclass 489)" and includes the results from the 2018/2019 program year)


    Skill Select Round Results

    SkillSelect Round Results January 2020

    Good News for Skilled Visa Applicants as Invitations for 189 and 491 (family sponsored) Visas Increase

    January 2020 SkillSelect Invitation Round

    The latest report on invitations issued by the Department of Home Affairs shows that 1,000 invitations were issued for the Skilled Independent subclass 189 visa on 10 January 2020. This is a significant increase from the 250 invitations that were issued for the same visa subclass at the last round in December 2019.

    A total of 300 invitations were issued for the subclass 491 (family sponsored stream) in this invitation round.

    Cut-off Score – 90 Points

    Whilst the number of invitations for both the 189 and the 491 (family sponsored stream) has increased, the minimum points remain high. The minimum points for both visa subclasses are 90 points. This minimum point score may be difficult for offshore applicants to access as most applicants rely on points earnt from studies in Australia or regional areas of Australia.

    Although the positive change is that points awarded for state sponsorship has now increased to 15 points, in comparison to the previous 10 points.

    Visa subclass

    Minimum points score

    Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189)

    90

    Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491) – Family Sponsored)

    90

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

    Still Tough Times for Some Occupations

    Although there has been a slight decrease in the cut-off scores, minimum requirements for some occupations, such as accountants, auditors and electronic engineers, remain high. It is expected that the points for these occupations, particularly for accountants, will remain high or continue to rise. (link to https://www.workvisalawyers.com.au/news/all/accountants-applying-for-australian-migration-face-high-points-requirements-how-to-increase-your-points-for-employer-sponsored-rsms-187-ens-186-independent-189-489-and-state-nomination-190-skilled-visas.html)

    Subclass

    Occupation ID

    Description

    Minimum points score

    189

    2211

    Accountants

    95

    189

    2212

    Auditors, Company Secretaries and Corporate Treasurers

    95

    189

    2334

    Electronics Engineer

    90

    491

    2334

    Electronics Engineer

    95

    189

    2335

    Industrial, Mechanical and Production Engineers

    90

    189

    2339

    Other Engineering Professionals

    90

    189

    2611

    ICT Business and System Analysts

    90

    189

    2613

    Software and Applications Programmers

    90

    491

    2613

    Software and Applications Programmers

    90

    189

    2631

    Computer Network Professionals

    90

    491

    2631

    Computer Network Professionals

    90

    Our View

    Potential for More 189 Invitations

    A total of 16,652 Skilled Independent 189 visas are available for the 2019-2020 financial year (link to https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/what-we-do/migration-program-planning-levels). Based on this number, we expect that the Department of Home Affairs may issue more monthly invitations. If over 1,300 invitations are issued per month for the 189, there is a potential for the point cut-off scores to decrease in future rounds. Regardless, scores for popular occupations, such as accountants, are likely to remain high.

    More Family Sponsored Stream 491 Visas

    There has also been an increase in invitations issued to the subclass 491 (family sponsored stream). In this round, a total of 300 invitations were issued in this stream. Previously, only 10 invitations were issued per month, with a rough estimate of 100 invitations for the year.  This meant that it was practically impossible to receive an invitation under this stream. With the recent increase in the number of invitations, the 491 (family sponsored stream) is becoming a more viable option.

     SkillSelect Round Results February 2019

    The Department of Home Affairs has released the Australian SkillSelect Invitation Round Results for February 2019.

    January marks the sixth month of the 2018/2019 migration year for Skilled Migration Visa invitations to be issued.

    In February 2019, Home Affairs issued 1,490 Skilled Independent (subclass 189) visas and only 10 Skilled Regional (Provisional) (subclass 489) visas.

    Through the past six months, Home Affairs has continued to issue only 10 Skilled Regional (Provisional) (subclass 489) visas, but up until this February, we have seen a significant drop in the amount of Skilled Independent (subclass 189) visas issued each month.

    Visa subclass

    Jul

    Aug

    Sep

    Oct

    Nov

    Dec

    Jan

    Feb

    Mar

    Apr

    May

    Jun

    Total

    Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189)

    1,000

    2,490

    2,490

    4,340

    4,340

    2,490

    2,490

    1,490

           

    21,130

    Skilled Regional (provisional) visa (subclass 489)

    10

    10

    10

    10

    10

    10

    10

    10

           

    80

    Total

    1,010

    2,500

    2,500

    4,350

    4,350

    2,500

    2,500

    1,500

           

    21,210

    *The above figures do not include invitations issued for State and Territory Government nominated visa subclasses. State and Territory Governments nominate throughout the month for specific points tested skilled migration and business innovation and investment visas.

     

    Main Differences

     Through the 2018/2019 program year, we have witnessed some major fluctuations within the SkillSelect round invitations. In December and January there was 2500 total invitations issued which is nearly double the number of visas issued in February. This may be attributed to high amount of invitations issued in October and November. As you can see below, there were less invitations issued at every point requirement. The major difference between the past few months and February were the amount of visa issued at 70 points.

    Accountants tend to face some of the most competition and highest points requirements. Here are some tips on how accountants and other applicants can receive higher points.  

    Below are two charts comparing the invitations issued based on points From November 2018 to February 2019.

    Points For:

    Skilled - Independent (subclass 189)

    70

    75

    80

    85  

    90 

             

    Total

    November

    2,200

    1,199

    764

    170

    <5

             

    4340

    December

    736

    1093

    496

    156

    7

             

    2490

    January       

    848     

    1037

    402  

    200

     

             

    2490

    February

    32

    945

    271   

    229

    10

             

    1490

                                                                            

    While the largest changes are seen above in the Skilled Independent visas, it is worth noting that there was a slight change in the Skilled Regional visas. With that being said, the minimum point requirement for the subclass 489 has stayed firmly at 80 points.

    Points For:

    Skilled – Regional Provisional (subclass 489)

    70

    75

    80

     

    85  

     

    90 

             

    Total

    November

    -

    -

    5

     

    5

     

    -

             

    10

    December

    -

    -

    <5

     

    7

     

    -

             

    10

    January

    -

    -

    7

     

    <5

     

    -

             

    10

    February

    -

    -

                         


    Top 5 Most Popular Occupations

    Currently, there are about 73 occupations on the occupation list. The table below shows the occupations with the most invitations issued and the invitation ceilings for the 2018-2019 program year. Each occupation on the list of eligible skilled occupations can be found using the four-digit ANZSCO code unit group.

    Occupation ID

    Description

    Occupation Ceiling Value 2018-19

    Invitations to 11/02/2019

    1)    2613

    Software and Applications Programmers*

    7,271

    4,764

    2)    2211

    Accountants*

    3,753

    2,460

    3)    2544

    Registered Nurses

    17,322

    1,532

    4)    2631

    Computer Network Professionals*

    2,167

    1,419

    5)    2332

    Civil Engineering Professionals

    3,510

    1,230

    *Occupations that are subject to pro rata arrangements. For Accountants (2211) the occupational ceiling also reflects volumes in other skilled visa categories.

     

    Occupations That Have Zero Invitations Issued

    Below is a list of occupations that have not been issued any invitations and their occupation ceiling. While this is not the complete list, this is the majority of occupations that have yet to receive a single occupation invitation. Furthermore, there are several occupations that have only received between 0 and 50 invitations.  

    Occupation ID

    Description

    Occupation Ceiling Value 2018-19

    Invitations to 11/02/2019

    1213

    Livestock Farmers

    4,841

    0

    2514

    Optometrists and Orthoptists

    1,000

    <5

    2711

    Barristers

    1,000

    0

    3222

    Sheetmetal Trades Workers

    1,000

    0

    3233

    Precision Metal Trades Workers

    1,000

    0

    3332

    Plasterers

    2,081

    <5

    3334

    Wall and Floor Tilers

    1,259

    <5

    3421

    Air-conditioning and Refrigeration Mechanics

    1,836

    <5

    3422

    Electrical Distribution Trades Workers

    1,019

    <5

    3941

    Cabinetmakers

    1,421

    <5

    3991

    Boat Builders and Shipwrights

    1,000

    0


    Monthly Points Requirement Changes

    Due to demand and other factors the monthly invitation round results also release changes in minimum point requirements. These point changes are often

    Occupation ID

    Description

    November Minimum Points Required

    2211

    Accountants

    85

    2212

    Auditors, Company Secretaries and Corporate Treasurers

    80

    2334

    Electronics Engineer

    75

    2335

    Industrial, Mechanical and Production Engineers

    75

    2339

    Other Engineering Professionals

    75

    2611

    ICT Business and System Analysts

    75

    2613

    Software and Applications Programmers

    75

    2631

    Computer Network Professionals

    75

     

     SkillSelect Round Results December 2018

    The Department of Home Affairs has released the Australian SkillSelect Invitation Round Results for December 2018.

    November marks the sixth month of the 2018/2019 migration year for Skilled Migration Visa invitations to be issued.

    In December 2019, Home Affairs issued 2,490 Skilled Independent (subclass 189) visas and only 10 Skilled Regional (Provisional) (subclass 489) visas.

    Through the past six months, Home Affairs has continued to issue only 10 Skilled Regional (Provisional) (subclass 489) visas, but up until this December, we have seen continual growth in the amount of Skilled Independent (subclass 189) visas issued each month.

    Visa Subclass

    Jul

    Aug

    Sep

    Oct  

    Nov

    Dec

     

    Total

    Skilled - Independent (subclass 189)

    1000

    2490

    2490

     4340

    4340

    2490

    17,150

    Skilled – Regional Provisional

    (subclass 489)

    10

    10

    10

    10

    10

    10

     

    60

    Total

    1010

    2500

    2500

     4350

    4350

    2500

     

    17,210

    *The above figures do not include invitations issued for State and Territory Government nominated visa subclasses.

     

    Main Differences

     Through the 2019/2019 program year, we have witnessed some major fluctuations within the SkillSelect round invitations. In October and November there was 4350 total invitations issued which is nearly double the number of visas issued in December. This may be attributed to low amount of invitations issued in July. As you can see below, there were less invitations issued at every point requirement. The major difference between the past few months and December were the amount of visa issued at 70 points.

    Accountants tend to face some of the most competition and highest points requirements. Here are some tips on how accountants and other applicants can receive higher points.  

    Below are two charts comparing the invitations issued based on points From September 2018 to December 2018.

    Points For:

    Skilled - Independent (subclass 189)

    70

    75

    80

    85  

    90 

     

     

     

     

     

    Total

    September

    605

    1,202

    545

     0

     5

     

     

     

     

    2,490

    October

    1,913

    1,458

    807

    157

     5

     

     

     

     

     

    4340

    November

    2,200

    1,199

    764

    170

    <5

     

     

     

     

     

    4340

    December

    736

    1093

    496

    156

    7

     

     

     

     

     

    2490

     

    While the largest changes are seen above in the Skilled Independent visas, it is worth noting that there was a slight change in the Skilled Regional visas. With that being said, the minimum point requirement for the subclass 489 has stayed firmly at 80 points.

     

    Points For:

    Skilled – Regional Provisional (subclass 489)

    70

    75

    80

     

    85  

     

    90 

     

       

     

     

    Total

    September

    -

    -

    5

     

    -

     

     5

     

     

     

     

    10

    October

    -

    -

    4

     

    6

     

     -

     

     

     

     

     

    10

    November

    -

    -

    5

     

    5

     

    -

     

     

     

     

     

    10

    December

    -

    -

    <5

     

    7

     

    -

     

     

     

     

     

    10

     

    Top 5 Most Popular Occupations

    Currently, there are about 73 occupations on the occupation list. The table below shows the occupations with the most invitations issued and the invitation ceilings for the 2018-2019 program year. Each occupation on the list of eligible skilled occupations can be found using the four-digit ANZSCO code unit group.

    Occupation ID

    Description

    Occupation Ceiling Value 2018-19

    Invitations to 12/11/2018

    1)    2613

    Software and Applications Programmers*

    7,271

    3,834

    2)    2211

    Accountants*

    3,753

    1,980

    3)    2544

    Registered Nurses

    17,322

    1,255

    4)    2631

    Computer Network Professionals*

    2,167

    1,147

    5)    2332

    Civil Engineering Professionals

    3,510

    981

    *Occupations that are subject to pro rata arrangements. For Accountants (2211) the occupational ceiling also reflects volumes in other skilled visa categories.

     

    Occupations That Have Zero Invitations Issued

    Below is a list of occupations that have not been issued any invitations and their occupation ceiling. While this is not the complete list, this is the majority of occupations that have yet to receive a single occupation invitation. Furthermore, there are several occupations that have only received between 0 and 50 invitations.  

    Occupation ID

    Description

    Occupation Ceiling Value 2018-19

    Invitations to 11/08/2018

    1213

    Livestock Farmers

    4,841

    0

    2514

    Optometrists and Orthoptists

    1,000

    <5

    2711

    Barristers

    1,000

    0

    3222

    Sheetmetal Trades Workers

    1,000

    0

    3233

    Precision Metal Trades Workers

    1,000

    0

    3421

    Air-conditioning and Refrigeration Mechanics

    1,836

    <5

    3422

    Electrical Distribution Trades Workers

    1,019

    <5

    3941

    Cabinetmakers

    1,421

    <5

    3991

    Boat Builders and Shipwrights

    1,000

    0

     

    Monthly Points Requirement Changes

    Due to demand and other factors the monthly invitation round results also release changes in minimum point requirements. These point changes are often

    Occupation ID

    Description

    November Minimum Points Required

    2211

    Accountants

    80

    2212

    Auditors, Company Secretaries and Corporate Treasurers

    80

    2334

    Electronics Engineer

    75

    2335

    Industrial, Mechanical and Production Engineers

    70

    2339

    Other Engineering Professionals

    75

    2611

    ICT Business and System Analysts

    75

    2613

    Software and Applications Programmers

    70

    2631

    Computer Network Professionals

    70

     

    SkillSelect Round Results November 2018

    The Department of Home Affairs has released the Australian SkillSelect invitation round results for November 2018. November marks the fifth month of the 2018 migration year for Skilled Migration Visa invitations to be issued.

    In November 2018, Home Affairs issued 4340 Skilled Independent (subclass 189) visas and only 10 Skilled Regional (Provisional) (subclass 489) visas.

    Through the past five months, Home Affairs has continued to issue only 10 Skilled Regional (Provisional) (subclass 489) visas, but we have seen continual growth in the amount of Skilled Independent (subclass 189) visas issued each month.

    Visa Subclass

    Jul

    Aug

    Sep

    Oct  

    Nov

                

     

    Total

    Skilled - Independent (subclass 189)

    1000

    2490

    2490

     4340

    4340

     

    14,660

    Skilled – Regional Provisional

    (subclass 489)

    10

    10

    10

    10

    10

       

    50

    Total

    1010

    2500

    2500

     4350

    4350

       

    14,710

    *The above figures do not include invitations issued for State and Territory Government nominated visa subclasses.

     

    Main Differences

    With the obvious difference being the amount of Skilled Independent (subclass 189) visas issued, there was a vast difference in the range of points for clients who were invited to apply. In fact, there was major growth in the amount of invitations issued at lower points. This is a welcomed change as many of our clients have found it extremely difficult to gain the necessary amount of points. Moreover, gaining the minimum amount of points does not mean that you will receive an invitation. For example, while a minimum requirement for a certain occupation could be 70 points, Home Affairs may issue the majority of invitations for that certain occupation at 80 points. This means that due to the high competition many qualified applicants still may not be issued an invitation.

    Accountants tend to face some of the most competition and highest points requirements. Here are some tips on how accountants and other applicants can receive higher points.  

    Below are two charts comparing the invitations issued based on points in September 2018 and October 2018.

    Points For The

    Skilled - Independent (subclass 189)

    70

    75

    80

    85  

    90 

     

     

     

     

     

    Total

    September

    605

    1,202

    545

     0

     5

     

     

     

     

    2,490

    October

    1,913

    1,458

    807

    157

     5

     

     

     

     

     

    4340

    November

    2,200

    1,199

    764

    170

    <5

     

     

     

     

     

    4340

    While the largest changes are seen above in the Skilled Independent visas, it is worth noting that there was a slight change in the Skilled Regional visas.

    Points For The

    Skilled – Regional Provisional (subclass 489)

    70

    75

    80

     

    85  

     

    90 

     

       

     

     

    Total

    September

    -

    -

    5

     

    -

     

     5

     

     

     

     

    10

    October

    -

    -

    4

     

    6

     

     -

     

     

     

     

     

    10

    November

    -

    -

    5

     

    5

     

    -

     

     

     

     

     

    10

     

    Top 5 Most Popular Occupations

    Currently, there are about 73 occupations on the occupation list. The table below shows the occupations with the most invitations issued and the invitation ceilings for the 2018-2019 program year. Each occupation on the list of eligible skilled occupations can be found using the four-digit ANZSCO code unit group.

    Occupation ID

              Description

    Occupation

    Ceiling Value 2018-19

    Invitations to 11/11/2018

    1)    2613

    Software and Applications Programmers*

    7,271

    3,253

    2)    2211

    Accountants*

    3,753

    1,680

    3)    2544

    Registered Nurses

    17,322

    1,081

    4)    2631

    Computer Network Professionals*

    2,167

    969

    5)    2332

    Civil Engineering Professionals

    3,510

    835

    *Occupations that are subject to pro rata arrangements. For Accountants (2211) the occupational ceiling also reflects volumes in other skilled visa categories.

     

    Occupations That Have Zero Invitations Issued

    Below is a list of occupations that have not been issued any invitations and their occupation ceiling. While this is not the complete list, this is the majority of occupations that have yet to receive a single occupation invitation. Furthermore, there are several occupations that have only received between 0 and 50 invitations.  

    Occupation ID

              Description

    Occupation

    Ceiling Value 2018-19

    Invitations to 11/08/2018

    1213

    Livestock Farmers

    4,841

    0

    2514

    Optometrists and Orthoptists

    1,000

    <5

    2711

    Barristers

    1,000

    0

    3222

    Sheetmetal Trades Workers

    1,000

    0

    3233

    Precision Metal Trades Workers

    1,000

    0

    3421

    Air-conditioning and Refrigeration Mechanics

    1,836

    <5

    3422

    Electrical Distribution Trades Workers

    1,019

    <5

    3941

    Cabinetmakers

    1,421

    <5

    3991

    Boat Builders and Shipwrights

    1,000

    0

     

    Monthly Points Requirement Changes

    Due to demand and other factors the monthly invitation round results also release changes in minimum point requirements. These point changes are often

    Occupation ID

    Description

    November Minimum Points Required

    2211

    Accountants

    80

    2212

    Auditors, Company Secretaries and Corporate Treasurers

    80

    2334

    Electronics Engineer

    75

    2335

    Industrial, Mechanical and Production Engineers

    70

    2339

    Other Engineering Professionals

    75

    2611

    ICT Business and System Analysts

    75

    2613

    Software and Applications Programmers

    70

    2631

    Computer Network Professionals

    70

     

    What To Expect In The Coming Months

    With major differences seen from September to October/November it is tough to say exactly what is to come. With that being said, if the past two months are giving us a look into what is to come, we will see lots more invitations issued.

    What we do know is that Home Affairs has allocated a total of 43,990 invitations to be issued for the 2018-2019 migration year. This meant that Home Affairs would have to issue approximately 3,665 invitations per month to reach the 43,990 cap. Up until October, it seemed unlikely that the cap would be met considering Home Affairs had been issuing significantly lower amounts of invitations per month. With only 5 months having past, we are sitting at an average of 2,942 invitations having been issued. Meaning there is still a gap of 723 invitations issued per month before we meet the cap.

    With Home Affairs releasing 4,350 invitations in October and November it has brought the current total to 14,710 invitations issued, meaning that they seem to be back on track to meet the invitation ceiling. If we look at the round results from November 2017, we can see that there was a total to 11,321 invitations issued, significantly less than 2018.

    All in all, it is great that David Coleman and Home Affairs have stepped up and began issuing a responsible amount of monthly invitations. We can only hope that this continues.

     

    Do you need help with an Australian visa application?

    At Work Visa Lawyers we are experienced in assisting applicants in all matters relating to Australian visa applications. Our areas of expertise include Skilled Migration visas, Business Skills Migration visas, Employer Sponsored Work Visas, Partner and other Family Migration visas as well as the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT) Review, Judicial Review and Ministerial Intervention.

    If you require further information regarding your Australia visa options you can contact us through:

    (08) 8351 9956 or +61 8 8351 9956

    or   This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

     

    SkillSelect Round Results October 2018

    The Department of Home Affairs has finally released the long-awaited Australian SkillSelect round results for October 2018 .

    October marks the fourth month of the 2018 migration year for Skilled Migration Visa invitations to be issued.

    In October 2018, Home Affairs issued 4340 Skilled Independent (subclass 189) visas and only 10 Skilled Regional (Provisional) (subclass 489) visas.

    Through the past four months, Home Affairs has continued to issue only 10 Skilled Regional (Provisional) (subclass 489) visas, but we have seen continual growth in the amount of Skilled Independent (subclass 189) visas issued each month.

    Visa Subclass

    Jul

    Aug

    Sep

     

    Oct 

                 

    Total

    Skilled - Independent (subclass 189)

    1000

    2490

    2490

     

     4340

               

    10,320

    Skilled – Regional Provisional (subclass 489)

    10

    10

    10

     

     10

                 

    40

    Total

    1010

    2500

    2500

     

     4350

                 

    10,360

    *The above figures do not include invitations issued for State and Territory Government nominated visa subclasses.

     

    Main Differences

     

    With the obvious difference being the amount of Skilled Independent (subclass 189) visas issued, there was a vast difference in the range of points for clients who were invited to apply. In fact, there was major growth in the amount of invitations issued at lower points. This is a welcomed change as many of our clients have found it extremely difficult to gain the necessary amount of points. Moreover, gaining the minimum amount of points does not mean that you will receive an invitation. For example, while a minimum requirement for a certain occupation could be 70 points, Home Affairs may issue the majority of invitations for that certain occupation at 80 points. This means that due to the high competition many qualified applicants still may not be issued an invitation.

    Accountants tend to face some of the most competition and highest points requirements. Here are some tips on how accountants and other applicants can receive higher points.  

    Below are two charts comparing the invitations issued based on points in September 2018 and October 2018.

    Points For The

    Skilled - Independent (subclass 189)

    70

    75

    80

     

    85  

     

    90 

     

     

     

     

     

    Total

    September

    605

    1,202

    545

     

     0

     

     5

     

     

     

     

    2,490

    October

    1,913

    1,458

    807

     

    157

     

     5

     

     

     

     

     

    4340

     

    While the largest changes are seen above in the Skilled Independent visas, it is worth noting that there was a slight change in the Skilled Regional visas.

     

    Points For The

    Skilled – Regional Provisional (subclass 489)

    70

    75

    80

     

    85  

     

    90 

     

       

     

     

    Total

    September

    -

    -

    5

     

    -

     

     5

     

     

     

     

    10

    October

    -

    -

    4

     

    6

     

     -

     

     

     

     

     

    10

     

    Top 5 Most Popular Occupations

     

    Currently, there are about 73 occupations on the occupation list. The table below shows the occupations with the most invitations issued and the invitation ceilings for the 2018-2019 program year. Each occupation on the list of eligible skilled occupations can be found using the four-digit ANZSCO code unit group.

    Occupation ID

    Description

    Occupation Ceiling Value 2018-19

    Invitations to 11/08/2018

    1)    2613

    Software and Applications Programmers*

    7,271

    581

    2)    2211

    Accountants*

    3,753

    300

    3)    2544

    Registered Nurses

    17,322

    293

    4)    2332

    Civil Engineering Professionals

    3,510

    230

    5)    2621

    Database and Systems Administrators and ICT Security Specialists

    2,660

    204

    *Occupations that are subject to pro rata arrangements. For Accountants (2211) the occupational ceiling also reflects volumes in other skilled visa categories.

     

    Occupations That Have Zero Invitations Issued

     

    Below is a list of occupations that have not been issued any invitations and their occupation ceiling. While this is not the complete list, this is the majority of occupations that have yet to receive a single occupation invitation. Furthermore, there are several occupations that have only received between 0 and 50 invitations.  

    Occupation ID

    Description

    Occupation Ceiling Value 2018-19

    Invitations to 11/08/2018

    1213

    Livestock Farmers

    4,841

    0

    2514

    Optometrists and Orthoptists

    1,000

    0

    2711

    Barristers

    1,000

    0

    3222

    Sheetmetal Trades Workers

    1,000

    0

    3233

    Precision Metal Trades Workers

    1,000

    0

    3421

    Air-conditioning and Refrigeration Mechanics

    1,836

    0

    3422

    Electrical Distribution Trades Workers

    1,019

    0

    3941

    Cabinetmakers

    1,421

    0

    3991

    Boat Builders and Shipwrights

    1,000

    0

     

    Why Were the Results Released So Late?

     

    When asking this question, it is important to remember that Home Affairs has still been issuing the invitations in a timely manner. It is just the monthly round result statistics presented to the public that we have been awaiting. While we are unsure as to why the October round results were released in December, it could be due to a couple of factors. First, Home Affairs is currently in the process of upgrading their website and during the month of October, for the most part, their website was down. Second, after viewing the invitations issued it could be due to the sheer amount of invitations actually issued. Lastly, this is the first time Home Affairs has attempted to release monthly statistics. In the past, the round results had been released quarterly.

     

    What To Expect In The Coming Months

     

    With major differences being seen from September and October it is tough to say exactly what is to come.

    What we do know is that Home Affairs has allocated a total of 43,990 invitations to be issued for the 2018-2019 migration year. This meant that Home Affairs would have to issue approximately 3,665 invitations per month to reach the 43,990 cap. Up until October, it seemed unlikely that the cap would be met considering Home Affairs had been issuing significantly lower amounts of invitations per month.

    With Home Affairs releasing 4,450 invitations in October it has brought the current total to 10,360 invitations issued, meaning that they may be on track to meet the invitation ceiling. If we look at the round results from October 2017, we can see that there was a total to 10,616 invitations issued. So, now that it seems as though that that amount of invitations issued is back on track, this leads us to believe that Home Affairs may begin to level off the amount of invitations issued and begin to issue a consistent number of invitations.  With that being said, it is important to remember that we have still yet to see the round results for November, which was scheduled to be released 11 December.

     

    Do you need help with an Australian visa application?

    At Work Visa Lawyers we are experienced in assisting applicants in all matters relating to Australian visa applications. Our areas of expertise include Skilled Migration visas, Business Skills Migration visas, Employer Sponsored Work Visas, Partner and other Family Migration visas as well as the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT) Review, Judicial Review and Ministerial Intervention.

    If you require further information regarding your Australia visa options you can contact us through:

    (08) 8351 9956 or +61 8 8351 9956

    or   This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

     

    SkillSelect Round Results September

    After the political spill in late August and several weeks, Home Affairs has released the Australian Skill Select Round Results for September.

    In September 2018, Home Affairs issued another 2490 Skilled Independent (subclass 189) visas and only 10 Skilled Regional (Provisional) (subclass 489) visas.

    This is the exact same number of visas that were issued for the month of August, which bring the total amount of visas issued to 6010 since the beginning of the migration year.

    Visa subclass

    Jul

    Aug

    Sep

     

                   

    Total

    Skilled - Independent (subclass 189)

    1000

    2490

    2490

                   

    5980

    Skilled – Regional Provisional (subclass 489)

    10

    10

    10

                     

    30

    Total

    1010

    2500

    2500

                     

    6010

    *The above figures do not include invitations issued for State and Territory Government nominated visa subclasses.

     

    Main Differences

     

    While the total number of visas issued stayed the same, there was a vast difference in the points range for clients who were invited to apply.

     Skilled – Independent

    605 visas granted to applicants with 70 points 

    1,202 visas granted to applicants with 75 points

    545 visas granted to applicants with 80 points

    5 visas granted to applicants with 90 points

    Skilled - Regional (Provisional)

    5 visas granted to applicants with 80 points

    5 visas granted to applicants with 90 points

     

    Top 5 Most Popular Visas

     

    Below you will see the current top 5 most popular visas bases on the amount of invitations issued to date.

    Occupation ID

    Description

    Occupation Ceiling Value 2018-19

    Invitations to 11/09/2018

    2613

    Software and Applications Programmers*

    7,271

    1,231

    2211

    Accountants

    3,753

    636

    2332

    Civil Engineering Professionals

    3,510

    339

    2335

    Industrial, Mechanical and Production Engineers*

    1,780

    301

    2633

    Telecommunications Engineering Professionals

    1000

    251

     

    Occupations That Have Zero Invitations Issued

     

    On the other side of the spectrum, there are occupations that have had zero invitations issued. These are not in an order and there are plenty of other occupations that have not issued invitations, see the chart below.

    Occupation ID

    Description

    Occupation Ceiling Value 2018-19

    1213

    Livestock Farmers

    4,841

    2711

    Barristers

    1,000

    3211

    Automotive Electricians

    1,000

    3222

    Sheetmetal Trades Workers

    1,000

    3421

    Air-conditioning and Refrigeration Mechanics

    1836

     

    Change between August & September

     

    While there are significant changes between the August and September SkillSelect Round Results, it is also important to remember that there was a change in leadership and subsequent new Minister for Immigration in late August. Understandably, this could be the reason September’s results were released so late and why they look so different.

    A major change we witnessed during the September round results was that there were invitations issued for people with 95 and 100 points. Another major change from August to September is that there was not a single invitation issued to any applicants that held 85 points.

    All in all, we witnessed over 200 less independent visa invitations issued at 70 points, over 100 more issued at 75 points, 100 less issued at 80 points, and 100 less invitations issued at 85 points.

     

    What can we expect for October?

     

    We have seen a large difference between August and September which leaves the question, what should we expect for October?

    Hopefully we will see a lot more visas being issued. By 20 September in the 2017-2018 program, Home Affairs had already issued a total of 8059 invitations; 7500 Skilled- Independent visas, and 559 Skilled Regional Visas. With that being said, the 2017-2018 program year only issued 16,296 of the available 43,990 invitations. If Home Affairs were to utilize the entire 43,990 possible invitations they would need to average approximately 3,665 invitations per month.

    If Home Affairs does attempt to reach their invitation cap of 43,990 for the 2018-2019 program year, the next rounds will need to have significantly more invitations. For this to happen we may see further movement within the minimum points required for certain occupations.

    Remember, the Invitation rounds for Skilled - Independent (subclass 189) and Skilled - Regional Provisional (subclass 489) visas will be run once a month. Invitation rounds are anticipated to run on the 11th day of each month but dates for the rounds are subject to change as we have seen from the month of September.

    Invitation numbers in each round may vary depending on the number of applications being processed by the department.

    Expect more changes and more difficult requirements for independent, employer, and state-sponsored visas as the competition for these phases will be high, in particularly, for those occupations that cannot get through the 189.

    We have already seen a number of changes from states including the ACT Tasmania and South Australia in relation to sponsorship required months for the 190 and 489 Visas.

    On 11 August Home Affairs released the second SkillSelect round results for the 2018 program year.

     

    SkillSelect Round Results August 

    For the month of August 2018 Home Affairs issued a total of 2500 invitations. While the amount of Independent 189 visas skyrocketed to 2490, the Regional 489 Visa invitations remained at exactly 10.

    In July 2018 there were a total of 1010 invitations issued; 1000 Independent 189 and 10 Regional 489 Visa invitations sent. July 2018 round results here.

     

    More Invitations to Follow Leadership Change?

     

    The recent spill and leadership change happened on 21 August. This round of results is from before the leadership change. While we are still unsure as to how or if the leadership change will affect the upcoming round results, we are anticipating that having a dedicated Home Affairs Minister could help. Especially because the policy under Dutton seemed to have been aimed towards lowering the number of approvals.

    It is also important to remember that the new Minister for Immigration, Citizenship and Multicultural Affairs, David Coleman, celebrates diversity and understands the pain of exclusion. Therefore, we are excited to see what impact he has on the remaining SkillSelect round results.

     

    Top 5 Occupation Invitations Issued

    Occupation ID

    Description

    Total # of Invitations Issued

    Invitation Ceiling    2018/2019

    2613

    Software and Applications Programmers*

    581

    7,271

    2211

    Accountants*

    300

    3,753

    2544

    Registered Nurses

    293

    17,322

    2332

    Civil Engineering Professionals

    230

    3,510

    2621

    Database and Systems Administrators and ICT Security Specialists

    204

    2,660

    *Occupations that are subject to pro rata arrangements. For Accountants (2211) the occupational ceiling also reflects volumes in other skilled visa categories.

     

    Occupation Point Requirement Changes

     

    For the majority of occupations within the 189 Independent Visa the minimum points required is set at 70 points. For the skilled regional sponsored 489 the minimum points required is 80 points. With that being said, the minimum required points have changed for some occupations since the last round results in July.

    Occupation ID

    Description

    July Minimum Points Required

    August Minimum Points Required

    2211

    Accountants

    85

    80

    2335

    Industrial, Mechanical and Production Engineers

    75

    70

    2339

    Other Engineering Professionals

    80

    75

    2613

    ICT Business and Systems Analysts

    80

    75

    2631

    Computer Network Professionals

    75

    70

     

    Invitations Issued Based on Points Score

    Skilled – Independent

    834 visas granted to applicants with 70 points

    1,094 visas granted to applicants with 75 points

    453 visas granted to applicants with 80 points

    107 visas granted to applicants with 85 points

    2 visas granted to applicants with 90 points

    Skilled - Regional (Provisional)

    9 Visas granted to applicants with 80 points

    1 Visas granted to applicants with 85 points

     

    Expect Even More Invitations Issued

    As of 11 August 2018, there have been a total of 3510 invitations issued; 1010 in July and 2500 in August. During the 2017-2018 program Home Affairs had already issued a total of 4,466. With that being said, the 2017-2018 program year only issued 16,296 of the available 43,990 invitations. If Home Affairs were to utilize the entire 43,990 possible invitations they would need to average approximately 3,665 invitations per month.

    If Home Affairs does attempt to reach their invitation cap of 43,990 for the 2018-2019 program year, the next rounds will need to have significantly more invitations. For this to happen we may see further movement within the minimum points required for certain occupations.

     

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    Do you need help with an Australian visa application?

    At Work Visa Lawyers we are experienced in assisting applicants in all matters relating to Australian visa applications. Our areas of expertise include Skilled Migration visas, Business Skills Migration visas, Employer Sponsored Work Visas, Partner and other Family Migration visas as well as the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT) Review, Judicial Review and Ministerial Intervention.

    If you require further information regarding your Australia visa options you can contact us through:

    (08) 8351 9956 or +61 8 8351 9956

    or   This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

     

     

     

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    Australian SkillSelect Invitation Round Results July 2018: More Struggles and Stress for Accountants, Engineers, and ICT Occupations

    Australian SkillSelect Invitation Round Results July 2018: More Struggles and Stress for Accountants, Engineers, and ICT Occupations

    Home Affairs has released the first SkillSelect round invitation results for the 2018-19 program year.

    The invitation round to apply for the Skilled - Independent (subclass 189) and Skilled - Regional (Provisional) (subclass 489) was conducted on 11 July 2018. This month there were 1000 Independent 189 Visa invitations while only 10 Regional 489 Visa invitations sent. The total number of positions planned for the 2018-19 Skilled Independent Visa remains at 43,990.

    Invitation rounds are anticipated to run on the 11th day of each month. Dates for the rounds are subject to change but expect the points to remain high at 70 points or higher within this program year.

    Continue reading

    Australia General Skilled Migration SkillSelect Invitation Round Results – 6 June 2018

    Australia General Skilled Migration SkillSelect Invitation Round Results – 6 June 2018

    Results for the latest SkillSelect invitation round on 6 June 2018 have been published. Here is a summary of the results:

    • 300 Skilled Independent visa invitations were issued
      • applications with 75 points or more were invited
      • applications submitted 31 May 2018 have been invited
    • 5 Skilled Regional Sponsored visa invitations were issued
      • applications with 80 points or more were invited
      • applications submitted 8 May 2018 were invited

     

    Continue reading

    BREAKING: Department of Home Affairs INCREASES Pass Marks for General Skilled Migration Visas!

    BREAKING: Department of Home Affairs INCREASES Pass Marks for General Skilled Migration Visas!

    Key terms: Subclass 189 Skilled Independent visa – Subclass 190 Skilled Nominated visa – Subclass 489 Skilled Regional Sponsored visa – SkillSelect – Expression of Interest (EOI) – Invitation to Apply

     

    Earlier today the Minister for Home Affairs and Minister for Immigration and Border Protection, Peter Dutton introduced a new legislative instrument which will increase the minimum points required for skilled visa applications.

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    Australia General Skilled Migration SkillSelect Invitation Round Results – 23 May 2018

    Australia General Skilled Migration SkillSelect Invitation Round Results – 23 May 2018

    Key terms: SkillSelect – Invitation to Apply – Skilled Independent subclass 189 - Skilled Regional Provisional subclass 489 – Expression of Interest – Points Test

    Results for the latest SkillSelect invitation round on 23 May 2018 have been published. Here is a summary of the results:

    • 300 Skilled Independent visa invitations were issued
      • applications with 75 points or more were invited
      • applications submitted 18 May 2018 have been invited
    • 5 Skilled Regional Sponsored visa invitations were issued
      • applications with 80 points or more were invited
      • applications submitted 26 April 2018 were invited 
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    85 points required for subclass 489 Skilled Regional Sponsored visas!

    85 points required for subclass 489 Skilled Regional Sponsored visas!
    Australia General Skilled Migration SkillSelect Invitation Round Results – 6 December 2017

    Key terms: SkillSelect – Invitation to Apply – Skilled Independent subclass 189 - Skilled Regional Provisional subclass 489 – Expression of Interest – Points Test

    Results for the latest SkillSelect invitation round on 6 December 2017 have been published. Here is a summary of the results:

    • 300 Skilled Independent visa invitations were issued
      • applications with 75 points or more were invited
      • applications submitted 18 October 2017 have been invited
    • 5 Skilled Regional Sponsored visa invitations were issued
      • applications with 85 points or more were invited
      • applications submitted 4 January 2017 were invited
    The invitation for subclass 489 Skilled Regional Sponsored visas went back to applications submitted January 2017 (from 30 October 2017 in the previous round). This might be due to an earlier application achieving more points and having its EOI updated.
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    Australia General Skilled Migration SkillSelect Invitation Round Results – 26 July 2017

    Australia General Skilled Migration SkillSelect Invitation Round Results – 26 July 2017
    Key terms: SkillSelect – Invitation to Apply – Skilled Independent subclass 189 - Skilled Regional Provisional subclass 489 – Expression of Interest – Points Test

    Results for the latest SkillSelect invitation round on 26 July 2017 have been published. Here is a summary of the results:
    • 1000 Skilled Independent visa invitations were issued
      • applications with 70 points or more were invited
      • applications submitted 15 July 2017 have been invited
    • 210 Skilled Regional Sponsored visa invitations were issued
      • applications with 60 points or more were invited
      • applications submitted 25 July 2017 were invited

     

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    Subclass 189 Skilled Independent Visa age eligibility lowered! NEW skilled visa pathway for NZ citizens in Australia!

    Subclass 189 Skilled Independent Visa age eligibility lowered! NEW skilled visa pathway for NZ citizens in Australia!

    Key terms: Migration Policy Changes – Skilled Independent Visa – Subclass 189 visa – New Zealand visa stream – SkillSelect – Age Requirements – New Zealand citizens in Australia - Subclass 444 Special Category visa

    New Changes for the Subclass 189 Skilled – Independent Visa from 1 July 2017

    The Australian Government has introduced new changes for the subclass 189 Skilled Independent visa. Effective from 1 July 2017 the following applies:

    ·         applicants will need to be below 45 years of age to receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA)

    ·         New Zealand (NZ) citizens will be eligible to apply for the subclass 189 visa if they meet requirements for the NZ visa stream

     



    New age ceiling for subclass 189 Skilled Independent visa

    The new requirement for applicants to be under age 45 will be implemented on 1 July 2017. This change will not affect you if:

    ·         you have receive an Invitation to Apply from SkillSelect before 1 July 2017, and you have submitted the visa application before 1 July 2017

    ·         you are applying as a secondary applicant


    New visa stream for the subclass 189 Skilled Independent visa

    New Zealand citizens in Australia who hold the subclass 444 Special Category visa will be eligible to apply for the subclass 189 Skilled Independent visa if they meet the following requirements:

    ·         usually resident in Australia, on or before 16 February 2016, for a continuous period for at least five years immediately before the date of application

    ·         the taxable income of the applicant for four (4) out of the last five (5) years are as follows:

    o   2012/13 - $51,000

    o   2013/14 - $53,900

    o   2014/15 - $53,900

    o   2015/16 - $53,900

    o   2016/17 - $53,900

    ·         meet health and character requirements

    The visa application charge (VAC) for the NZ visa stream is payable in two stages – at time of application and before the grant of visa.

    Need to know more about the changes? Contact Work Visa Lawyers to discuss further.


    Sources:

    https://www.legislation.gov.au/Details/F2017L00549

    This information is accurate on 22 May 2017


    Comments by Chris Johnston – Principal Lawyer and Registered Migration Agent at Work Visa Lawyers

    The changes are continuing for Australia’s migration programme. Prospective applicants should aim to complete a visa application before 1 July 2017 before the new changes take place. If you are affected by the new and lower age requirements for the subclass 189 Skilled Independent, you may need to seek more points such as better English scores, claiming additional work experience, assessing spouse skills and so on to increase your Expression of Interest (EOI) points. Having a higher EOI score will allow you to be in a better position to receive an ITA.

    We can advise you on the requirements of the subclass 189 Skilled Independent visa application, including the skills assessment, English testing, points test and work experience required.

    Please check with a Registered Migration Agent or Lawyer to understand your options and to determine if you are affected by the newly introduced changes, which will come in effect on 1 July 2017.


    Do you need help with an Australian visa or citizenship application?

    At Work Visa Lawyers we are experienced in assisting applicants in all matters relating to Australian visa applications. Our areas of expertise include Skilled Migration visas, Business Skills Migration visas, Employer Sponsored Work Visas, Partner and other Family Migration visas as well as the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT) Review, Judicial Review and Ministerial Intervention. We have also assisted applicants with Australian citizenship applications, especially for those with unusual circumstances.

    If you require further information regarding your Australia visa or citizenship options you can contact us through:

    (08) 8351 9956 or +61 8 8351 9956

    or   This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
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