1. Overview

· This is a points-based visa system based on occupation, education, English proficiency, age, and work experience.

· The points system is also known as SkillSelect (EOI). Points are determined by factors such as education, work experience, and age.

· Before participating in the points calculation and selection process, applicants must ensure they have a valid EOI, which includes:

o Nominated occupation on the relevant skilled occupation list.

o Positive skills assessment.

o Meeting the age requirement.

o Achieving at least competent English proficiency.

o Reaching the minimum required EOI score of 65 points.

· EOI selection is based on ranking among all candidates in the pool. Higher scores increase the chances of receiving an invitation.

· Meeting the minimum criteria does not guarantee an invitation. Applicants are encouraged to improve their EOI score or explore alternative visa options.

· Candidates who receive an invitation can proceed to lodge a formal visa application.

· There is no fixed schedule for invitation rounds.

2. Process

Step 1 - SkillSelect (EOI) Basic Requirements

i. Identifying the Appropriate Occupation on the Skilled Occupation List

· Three visa types (189, 190, 491) correspond to different skilled occupation lists:

o MLTSSL (Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List): Applies to 189, 190, 491.

o STSOL (Short-Term Skilled Occupation List): Applies to 190, 491.

o ROL (Regional Occupation List): Applies only to 491.

ii. Obtaining a Positive Skills Assessment

· Choose an occupation from the skilled occupation list and obtain a positive skills assessment from the relevant assessment authority.

· Skills assessment is usually based on qualifications and relevant work experience; some occupations require a specific English level.

· The assessment outcome is valid for 2-3 years from the date of issuance.

iii. Meeting the Age Requirement (18-45 years)

· Must be at least 18 years old to submit an EOI.

· Applicants must be under 45 at the time of receiving an invitation. Those who turn 45 before receiving an invitation will no longer be eligible.

· Different age brackets receive different points in the EOI system.

iv. Achieving Competent English Proficiency

· Competent English is the minimum requirement for a valid EOI.

· Higher English proficiency levels contribute additional points.

v. Reaching a Minimum of 65 EOI Points

· The points system considers age, education, work experience, Australian study duration, and other factors.

· A minimum of 65 points is required for eligibility.

· EOI selection is based on ranking within the pool, considering both points and occupation quotas.

Step 2 - Submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI)

After meeting the requirements above, submit an EOI via SkillSelect. While waiting for an invitation, applicants can:

· Increase their score by achieving higher English levels, gaining work experience, or obtaining a higher qualification.

· Update their EOI if their circumstances change (e.g., family composition, residency, employment status).

· Each EOI is valid for two years. If no invitation is received, a new EOI must be submitted.

Step 3 - State Nomination Application (Applicable to 190 and 491 Visas)

· Submit a state-specific nomination application (ROI/ITA/Matrix, depending on the state).

· If selected, submit a formal state nomination application (some states require an application fee).

· Submit the nomination application within the deadline (typically 7-28 days).

· If approved, the state will notify the immigration department, and an official EOI invitation will be issued.

Step 4 - Receiving an EOI Invitation

· This is a formal invitation from the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) to lodge a visa application.

· The invitation is valid for 60 days, with no extensions allowed.

· Each EOI can receive a maximum of two invitations. If both are declined or expire, a new EOI must be submitted.

Step 5 - Visa Application

· Gather and prepare required documents.

· Submit the visa application (includes a visa application fee).

· Update any changes in status during processing (e.g., residence, travel history, family changes).

· Complete additional requirements, such as medical exams, biometrics, and police clearance.

· Await the visa decision.

3. After Visa Grant

Entering Australia

· If granted the visa outside Australia, the applicant must enter Australia before the first entry deadline stated in the visa grant letter.

· Due to global travel restrictions, if the initial entry date is missed, entry can be made before the "Must Not Arrive After" date.

· Carry a Facilitation Notice when entering Australia after missing the initial entry date.

Healthcare - Medicare Enrollment

· After arriving in Australia, permanent residents can enroll in Medicare.

· Other government benefits may have waiting periods.

· To apply for Medicare:

1. Download the application form from Services Australia (copy the link into a browser).

2. Prepare the required documents:

§ Completed application form.

§ Passport copy.

§ Visa grant notice.

3. Submit via email or post:

§ Email: mes@servicesaustralia.gov.au

§ Mail: Services Australia, Medicare Enrolment Services, PO Box 7856, Canberra BC ACT 2610.

Work and Study Rights

· Visa holders can work and study anywhere in Australia without restrictions.

· Australian labor laws apply to all workers.

Residency and Travel Rights

· The visa allows permanent residence in Australia.

· The visa allows unlimited travel in and out of Australia for five years from the grant date.

· After five years, a Resident Return Visa (RRV) (Subclass 155 or 157) is required to maintain travel rights.

Renewing Permanent Residency - Resident Return Visa (RRV)

· After five years, permanent residents must apply for an RRV to maintain their PR status.

· If residency requirements are met, a five-year RRV is granted.

· If residency requirements are not met, a 12-month RRV may be issued.

Family Sponsorship Options

Permanent residents can sponsor eligible family members for visas, including:

· Temporary Visit Visas:

o Visitor Visa (Family Stream) (Subclass 600)

o Sponsored Family Visitor Visa (Subclass 600)

o Temporary Parent Visa (Subclass 870)

· Permanent Visas:

o Parent Visa (Subclass 103) or Aged Parent Visa (Subclass 804)

o Contributory Parent Visa (Subclass 143) or Aged Contributory Parent Visa (Subclass 864)

o Partner Visa (Subclasses 309/100, 820/801)

o Prospective Marriage Visa (Subclass 300)

o Child Visa (Subclasses 101, 802, 445)

Australian Citizenship

· Permanent residents can apply for Australian citizenship after meeting the residency requirement.

· Citizenship eligibility is based on holding a PR visa for at least 12 months and meeting the residency timeline.

o If in Australia at visa grant, the 12-month period starts on the grant date.

o If outside Australia at grant, the 12-month period starts on the first entry date.