In this article, we will be working through everything you need to know about Working In Australia, the requirements needed, how to apply, and the time frame needed to process your application.
Australia is one of the most popular countries in the world. With over one million Brits living and working in Australia, the country has become a home for all. The country’s friendly and inviting culture has also been able to attract investors and workers.
Working in Australia is safe and secure. The country is keen to attract skilled workers in a variety of sectors, which is great news for graduates and qualified professionals. So, what is needed to work in Australia? Here are the details you should know.
WORKING IN AUSTRALIA: VISA Types
Australia offers a range of work visa options to cater to different skill levels, professions, and sponsorship situations. Here’s a breakdown of the main categories:
Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)
The Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) is a popular pathway to permanent residency in Australia for skilled migrants who don’t have an employer sponsor or a nomination from a state or territory government. Here’s a closer look:
Eligibility:
- Occupation: Your occupation must be listed on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL). This list reflects Australia’s current skill needs and is regularly updated.
- Points Test: You need to achieve a minimum score on a points test that assesses factors like age, English language proficiency, work experience in your nominated skilled occupation, and educational qualifications. A higher score increases your chances of receiving an invitation to apply (ITA) for the visa.
- Skill Assessment: You’ll need a positive skills assessment from a designated assessing authority that verifies your qualifications and experience in your nominated occupation.
Application Process:
- Skill Assessment: Obtain a positive skills assessment from a designated assessing authority for your nominated occupation.
- Expression of Interest (EOI): Submit an EOI through SkillSelect, an online system that expresses your interest in migrating to Australia.
- Invitation to Apply (ITA): If your EOI has a high enough score, you may receive an ITA to apply for the visa formally.
- Visa Application: Submit your visa application, which includes documentation proving you meet all eligibility requirements.
Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)
The Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190) is a permanent residency visa option in Australia specifically designed for skilled workers who can secure a nomination from a state or territory government. Here’s a breakdown of its key features:
How it Differs from Subclass 189:
- State Nomination: Unlike the Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189), the 190 visa requires nomination by a specific Australian state or territory government. This nomination process allows states to attract skilled migrants who align with their specific economic needs and workforce demands.
- Potentially Easier Path: Securing a nomination from a state/territory can sometimes be easier compared to achieving a high score on the points test for the 189 visas. However, requirements can vary by state.
Eligibility:
- Occupation: Your occupation must be on a state or territory nomination list, which might differ slightly from the national SOL.
- Skill Assessment: Similar to the 189 visa, you’ll need a positive skills assessment for your nominated occupation.
- State Nomination Requirements: Each state/territory has its own specific requirements for nomination, which may include factors like work experience, qualifications, and willingness to live and work in a designated area.
Application Process:
- Research State Nominations: Explore the websites of each state or territory government to understand their specific nomination requirements and application processes. Popular choices include New South Wales, Victoria, and South Australia.
- Skill Assessment: Obtain a positive skills assessment for your nominated occupation.
- State Nomination Application: Apply for nomination from your chosen state/territory government, ensuring you meet their specific criteria.
- Visa Application: If nominated, submit your visa application to the Department of Home Affairs.
Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (Subclass 482)
The Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (Subclass 482), often referred to as the TSS visa, caters to temporary skilled worker needs in Australia. It bridges the gap between the available local workforce and occupations experiencing a skills shortage.
Here’s a closer look at the TSS visa:
Eligibility:
- Occupation: Your occupation must be listed on either the Short-Term Skilled Occupations List (STSOL) or the Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL). These lists categorize occupations in high demand across various sectors.
- Employer Sponsorship: You need sponsorship from an approved Australian employer who can demonstrate they’ve genuinely attempted to recruit locally before seeking overseas workers.
- Skill Assessment: For some occupations, a positive skills assessment from a designated assessing authority is mandatory.
- English Language Skills: Meeting the minimum English language proficiency requirements is essential.
Application Process:
- Employer Sponsorship: Secure sponsorship from an approved Australian employer who nominates you for the visa.
- Skill Assessment (if required): Obtain a positive skills assessment for your nominated occupation.
- Visa Application: Submit your visa application, along with supporting documents from your sponsor.
Other Work-Related Visas:
- Global Talent Visa (Subclass 858): Attracts highly skilled and talented individuals in specific fields for permanent residency.
- Pacific Engagement Visa (Subclass 192): Designed to strengthen ties with Pacific Island countries by offering work opportunities in specific sectors.
Working In Australia: Procedures
Working in Australia requires following specific procedures, which can be broadly categorized into three main stages:
1. Understanding Your Eligibility:
- Occupation in Demand: The first step is to confirm if your occupation is listed on a skilled occupation list. This ensures Australia has a current need for your skills and expertise. Key resources include:
- Skilled Occupation List (SOL): https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/working-in-australia/skill-occupation-list
- Short-Term Skilled Occupations List (STSOL): https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/working-in-australia/skill-occupation-list
- Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL): https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/working-in-australia/skill-occupation-list
- Visa Options: Research the various work visa options based on your situation. Popular choices include:
- Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189): Points-based permanent residency for skilled migrants without sponsorship.
- Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190): Permanent residency with nomination from a state/territory government.
- Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (Subclass 482): Fills temporary skill gaps; sponsorship required.
2. Meeting Visa Requirements:
Once you identify a suitable visa, delve into its specific requirements. These typically involve:
- Skills Assessment: Obtaining a positive skills assessment from a designated assessing authority to verify your qualifications in your nominated occupation.
- English Language Skills: Meeting the minimum English language proficiency requirements through tests like IELTS or PTE.
- Age Limitations: Some visas have age limitations, often under 45 years old.
- Health Requirements: Undergoing a medical examination as specified by the Department of Home Affairs.
- Character Requirements: A criminal background check is usually mandatory.
- Financial Requirements: Demonstrating sufficient financial resources for yourself and any dependents (if applicable) for some visa categories.
3. The Application Process:
The application process typically involves:
- Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189): Submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect.
- Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190): Applying for nomination from your chosen state/territory government.
- Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (Subclass 482): Securing sponsorship from an approved Australian employer and then lodging your visa application.
By following these steps and conducting thorough research, you can increase your chances of successfully securing the right to work in Australia and embarking on a rewarding professional journey in this dynamic country.
