How to Apply for a Skilled Visa 190/491 in Australia

Posted on December 24, 2023October 29, 2025 by jm_modi45

Skilled Visa 190 and 491 - Complete Guide

Are you planning to make the move to Australia and build a rewarding career? The Skilled Visa 190 and Skilled Regional Visa 491 are popular pathways for skilled workers who want to live and work in Australian states or regional areas. This guide from A Class Migration Education explains eligibility, the application steps, and what you need to prepare.

Understanding the Skilled Visa 190 and 491

The Skilled Visa 190 and 491 are points-based visas created to attract skilled workers to specific states or regional locations in Australia. These visas support regional development and help fill local skill shortages.

Key Eligibility Criteria

Before you start, make sure you meet these core requirements:

Occupation: Your nominated occupation must appear on the relevant skilled occupation list for the visa subclass.
Skills assessment: You must obtain a positive skills assessment from the assessing authority for your occupation.
Points test: You need to meet the minimum points threshold based on factors such as age, English proficiency, education, and work experience.
Nomination: For visa 190 you must be nominated by a state or territory government. For visa 491 you must be nominated by a state or territory government or sponsored by an eligible relative living in a designated regional area.
Age limit: Most applicants must be under 45 years of age at the time of invitation. Some exceptions or variations may apply depending on the state or territory.

Step-by-Step Application Process

Step 1 - Skills Assessment

Obtain a positive skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority for your occupation. This confirms that your qualifications and work experience meet Australian standards for your nominated occupation.

Step 2 - Expression of Interest (EOI)

Submit an Expression of Interest through SkillSelect. Your EOI contains details about your skills, nominated occupation, and points score. Only EOIs selected by states or the Department will be invited to apply.

Step 3 - State or Territory Nomination

For the 190 visa you must secure nomination from an Australian state or territory. Each state has its own list of occupations and nomination criteria. For the 491 visa you can be nominated by a state or sponsored by an eligible relative in a designated regional area.

Step 4 - Invitation to Apply

If your EOI is selected and you meet the nomination criteria, you will receive an invitation to apply. Invitations include a deadline for lodging your visa application, so be ready to act promptly.

Step 5 - Lodge Visa Application

Complete and submit your visa application within the specified timeframe. Include all required documents such as identity documents, skills assessment, English test results, and evidence of nomination or sponsorship.

Step 6 - Health and Character Checks

You and any included family members must undergo medical examinations and provide police clearance certificates or other documents to satisfy health and character requirements.

Step 7 - Visa Decision

Once the Department processes your application, you will receive a decision. If successful, you will be granted the Skilled Visa 190 or 491 and can live and work in Australia under the visa conditions.

Tips to Maximise Your Points

Improve your English language score where possible - higher test results award more points.
Gather strong evidence for skilled employment and qualifications to support higher points claims.
Consider partner points if applicable - a partner with competent English or a suitable skill can add points.
Explore state nomination options - some states offer additional points or relaxed criteria for priority occupations.

Common Questions

What is the difference between visa 190 and 491?

Visa 190 is a state-nominated permanent skilled visa. Visa 491 is a provisional skilled visa that requires regional residence and can lead to permanent residency after meeting specific regional living and work requirements.

How long does the process take?

Processing times vary by individual circumstances and Department workloads. Timeliness depends on document completeness, health and character checks, and whether additional information is requested.

Can I include family members?

Yes. You can include eligible family members in your application. Each dependent will need to meet health and character requirements.

Why Work with A Class Migration Education?

Navigating skills assessments, EOI strategy, and state nomination rules can be complex. A Class Migration Education offers expert guidance to improve your chances of invitation and successful visa grant. Our services include:

Skills assessment assistance
EOI and points strategy
State nomination advice
Complete application preparation and review

Take the Next Step

Applying for a Skilled Visa 190 or 491 requires careful preparation and a clear strategy. If you want expert help to navigate the process and maximise your chances, contact A Class Migration Education for personalised support.

Book your consultation with A Class Migration Education today and start your path to living and working in Australia.

Top Courses in Australia for Permanent Residency (PR) in Australia 2024

Posted on December 22, 2023January 8, 2024 by jm_modi45

Australia is renowned for its high-quality education and is a preferred destination for international students seeking higher education. For those aspiring to make Australia their permanent home, a study visa can pave the way towards Permanent Residency (PR). In this blog, we’ll explore the top courses in Australia that can help you secure a PR pathway, and possibly a well-paid job.

Education & Teaching:

A career in education and teaching is evergreen, with a consistent demand for educators at various levels. Teaching professions such as Early Childhood Teacher, Primary School Teacher, Secondary School Teacher, and others are highly valued and in-demand in Australia.

Social Work:

Social work courses are gaining popularity due to the increasing demand for professionals in this field. Graduates can make a positive impact on society by helping individuals dealing with personal or social issues. Careers like Social Worker, Community Worker, and Welfare Centre Manager are in high demand.

Automotive:

The automotive industry in Australia is thriving, offering opportunities in fields like automotive engineering and repair. In-demand jobs include Automotive Electrician and Motor Mechanic.

Building & Construction:

The construction industry in Australia boasts a double-digit job growth rate. Trade courses like plumbing, carpentry, and construction management are highly sought after, and they offer a feasible PR pathway.

Plumbing:

Plumbing courses, particularly Certificate III or IV, have a promising job growth rate and excellent PR prospects. Plumbing jobs on the PR list include Air conditioning and Mechanical Services Plumber and Roof Plumber.

Painting & Decoration:

The painting & decoration industry is on the rise due to increased infrastructure development. Courses in this field can provide an easy and lucrative PR pathway, with occupations like Painting Trades Worker in high demand.

Nursing:

Australia’s healthcare sector is expanding, and the demand for nurses is rising. Nursing graduates can pursue careers such as Nurse Practitioner, Nurse (Surgical), and Nurse (Community Health), among others.

Computer and Information Technology (IT):

IT professionals are in demand worldwide, and Australia is no exception. IT courses offer a wide range of career prospects, including computer networks, software development, and web development.

Hospitality:

The tourism and hospitality industry in Australia offers exciting career opportunities. Courses in baking, cooking, and hotel management can lead to PR, especially with relevant work experience.

Accounting:

Accounting offers diverse career options, with roles like Corporate Treasurer, Taxation Accountant, and Management Accountant. Graduates with relevant experience and degrees in accounting have promising career prospects.

Engineering:

Australia’s demand for engineers has been on the rise. Various engineering disciplines such as Civil Engineering, Software Engineering, and Environmental Engineering provide excellent PR opportunities.

Conclusion:

While these courses offer promising pathways to PR in Australia, relevant work experience is crucial. International students should plan their educational journey wisely and seek guidance from MARA agents and education counselors to make informed decisions. Choosing the right course is the first step towards getting closer to achieving PR in Australia and building a successful career. Start early, stay committed to your chosen path, and you could find yourself calling Australia home in the future.

189 Visa Processing Time Guide

Posted on December 10, 2023January 8, 2024 by jm_modi45

The Skilled Independent Visa Subclass 189 is a highly sought-after permanent visa option for skilled workers looking to make Australia their new home. Unlike some other visas, the 189 visa doesn’t require nomination by a state/territory, family member, or employer in Australia. Instead, it relies on a points system for eligibility. To qualify for this visa, applicants must score a minimum of 65 points on the point assessment. The process begins with submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI) and subsequently receiving an invitation to apply (ITA) from SkillSelect. Once you receive the ITA, you have sixty days to submit your application for the 189 Visa.

Holders of the 189 Visa, along with their family members, enjoy the privileges of becoming long-term residents in Australia. This means they can live, work, and pursue education in the country without any time restrictions.

Here are some of the key advantages of the Skilled Independent Visa Subclass 189:

Long-term Residency: You can live, work, and study in Australia as a long-term resident.
Access to Medicare: You can enroll in Medicare, Australia’s national healthcare program.
Sponsor Family Members: You can sponsor eligible family members for immigration to Australia.
Travel Flexibility: Over the next five years, you can enter and exit Australia as needed.
Pathway to Citizenship: If eligible, you can apply for Australian citizenship and obtain an Australian passport.

Visa Processing Time in 2023

Understanding the processing time for the 189 Visa is crucial for planning your move to Australia. While the “Visa Processing Time Guidance Tool” provides a rough estimate, actual processing times can vary based on several factors:

Application Completeness: The completeness of your application and the inclusion of all required supporting documentation play a significant role.
Timely Response: Responding promptly to any requests for additional information from the Department of Home Affairs can expedite your application.
Verification Time: The time needed to verify the submitted supporting data is a variable factor.
External Factors: Delays can occur when waiting for information from external sources, especially related to national security, character, and health criteria.
Programme Availability: The number of available spots in the migration program can impact processing times.

Skilled Independent Visa Processing Time

The Department of Home Affairs processes each 189 Visa application individually, which typically takes several months. Here’s a general overview of the processing times:

25% of applications are processed in approximately 23 months.
50% of applications are processed in around 25 months.
75% of applications are processed in roughly 36 months.
90% of applications are processed in about 39 months.

Accelerate Your Visa Application

If you want to expedite your 189 Visa application process, consider meeting the eligibility requirements and providing all necessary documentation upfront. The Department of Home Affairs may reach out to applicants for additional information, so it’s essential to respond promptly. This proactive approach can significantly speed up your application process.

Conclusion

The Skilled Independent Visa Subclass 189 offers a fantastic opportunity to live, work, and study in Australia through its point-based immigration system. While the visa processing times can be influenced by various factors, including application completeness and external delays, staying organized and responsive throughout the process can help ensure a smoother and faster experience.

For expert guidance and assistance in navigating the Skilled Independent Visa 189 application process, consider consulting with an immigration agent. They can help you with form filling, document collection, accuracy verification, and timely responses, ultimately reducing the time it takes for your visa to be processed.

Subclass 820 Partner Visa: Your Path to Australian Partnership

Posted on December 10, 2023January 8, 2024 by jm_modi45

Are you dreaming of bringing your loved one to Australia to start a new life together? The Subclass 820 Partner Visa might be your answer. In this blog, we will walk you through the essential details of this visa, from its requirements to processing times and costs. Let’s get started!

What is the Subclass 820 Partner Visa?

The Subclass 820 Partner Visa, also known as the Temporary Partner Visa, allows your partner to join you in Australia while awaiting the approval or withdrawal of their Subclass 801 Permanent Partner Visa application. With this visa, your partner can live, work, and study in Australia. However, it’s essential to note that only Australian citizens or permanent residents can sponsor this visa.

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for the Subclass 820 Partner Visa, you need to meet several requirements, including:

Being in a committed and substantial relationship with your partner.
Fulfilling specific character and health requirements.
Providing evidence to support your claims.
The option to include dependent children under the age of eighteen in your application.

Partner Visa Processing Time

The processing time for the Subclass 820 Temporary Partner Visa can vary depending on individual circumstances and the subclass. However, here’s a general timeframe:

Three months for 25% of applications.
Six months for 50% of applications.
16 months for 75% of applicants.
34 months for 90% of applications.

This visa serves as the initial step towards obtaining the Subclass 801 Permanent Partner Visa.

Factors Influencing the Processing Time

Several factors can influence the actual processing time of your application:

The completeness of your application and the submission of all required supporting documentation.
Your prompt response to requests for additional information.
The time needed to scrutinize the evidence submitted, especially concerning national security, character, and health criteria.
The availability of spots for permanent migration visa applicants.
The duration required for citizenship processing, attending a citizenship ceremony, and obtaining a citizenship certificate.

Partner Visa Australia Requirements

Before applying for the Subclass 820/801 visa, you must meet the following partner visa requirements for Australia:

Be at least eighteen years old (except for married individuals).
Be married to an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or qualified New Zealand citizen or be in a de facto relationship with one of these individuals.
Ensure your sponsor is at least eighteen years old (with exceptions for married individuals) and meets character criteria.
Your Australian partner must sponsor you, or in certain cases, your partner’s parent or legal guardian must nominate you if they are under 18.
Meet character and health requirements.
Either fulfill extra requirements or possess a substantive visa without a bridging visa.

Partner Visa Cost

To complete your visa application, you must pay the following partner visa fees:

Principal applicant: AUD 8,085.00 (covers both the 820 temporary and 810 permanent visas).
Over-18 secondary applicant: AUD 4,045.00.
Secondary applicant under the age of 18: AUD 2,025.00.

Additional costs may apply for police and health checks.

Partner Visa Australia Checklist

To ensure a smooth application process, you must attach scanned copies of all required documents from the partner visa Australia checklist. Here’s a list of essential documents:

Necessary Forms

Form 80 (Applicant’s Character Assessment) for individuals aged 16 and up.
Two or more Statutory Declarations from outside parties attesting to your partnership (Form 888).

Personal Documents

Biodata page of the passport for the applicant and dependents.
Passport-size photos of you and your dependents.
Birth certificates for you and your dependents.
Further proof of identity, if applicable.

Evidence of Relationship

Proof of shared accommodation, joint financial commitments, and other evidence of your genuine relationship.

Supplementary Records for Dependent Child

Documentation proving parental responsibility for minors under eighteen.
Child adoption documents if applicable.
Form 80 for dependent children aged sixteen and above.
Australian Federal Police clearance for dependents aged sixteen and above.
Offshore police clearances for dependents aged sixteen and above.

Sponsors Individual Records

Biodata page of the sponsor’s passport.
Two passport photos of the sponsor.
Full certificate of birth for the sponsor.
Evidence of service during the preceding two years.
Proof of the sponsor’s citizenship or permanent residency.
Australian Federal Police clearance for the sponsor.
Offshore police clearances, if applicable.
Character and health certificates.

How to Apply for Partner Visa 820?

Before applying, ensure you meet the eligibility criteria and have gathered all the necessary documentation. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Assemble all required documentation.
Apply online through your ImmiAccount.
Choose “New Application” and then “Family.”
Select “Stage 1 Partner or Prospective Marriage Visa.”
Complete the application, attaching up to 100 documents.
Pay the visa fee(s).
Record the TRN (transaction reference number) and provide it to your sponsor, who must apply for sponsorship separately.
Monitor the progress of your application through your ImmiAccount.

Conclusion

Embarking on the journey of obtaining a partner visa for Australia can be both exciting and challenging. With the assistance of a migration agent and by providing comprehensive and well-prepared documentation, you can increase your chances of a successful outcome. Rest assured that your commitment to your partner will lead you to a bright future together in Australia.

If you have any questions or need further clarification, don’t hesitate to seek professional guidance. Your dream of living together in Australia is within reach, and the right steps will ensure a smooth transition to your new life down under.

Australia Tourist Visa Processing Time Demystified

Posted on December 10, 2023January 8, 2024 by jm_modi45

Are you planning a trip to Australia to explore its breathtaking beaches, vibrant cities, and rich cultural heritage? If so, you may need an Australian tourist visa to make your dream vacation a reality. In this blog, we will unravel the mysteries of Australia tourist visa processing times, ensuring that your journey Down Under goes as smoothly as possible. Let’s dive in!

Australia Tourist Visa Overview

Before we delve into the processing times, let’s understand what an Australia tourist visa entails. This visa allows foreign nationals to visit Australia temporarily, whether it’s for leisure, to visit family or friends, or even for short-term studies or training. However, it’s important to note that this visa does not grant permission for professional or therapeutic purposes. If your main reason for visiting Australia is to enroll in classes, you should consider applying for a study visa instead.

Processing Times for Australia Tourist Visa Subclass 600

The processing time for an Australian tourist visa can vary depending on the specific stream you apply for. Here’s a breakdown of the processing times for each stream:

Tourist Visa Stream:

25% of applications are processed in less than a day.
50% of applications take around six days.
75% of applications are processed within 26 days.
90% of applications get processed within 37 days.

Business Traveler Stream:

25% of applicants receive approval in less than a day.
50% of applications take approximately three days.
75% of applications are processed within nine days.
90% of applications receive a decision within 25 days.

Sponsored Family Visa Stream:

25% of applicants are approved within 28 days.
50% of applications take around 36 days.
75% of applications are processed within 45 days.
90% of applications receive a decision within 50 days.

It’s important to note that these processing times are not specific to your application and are subject to change based on various factors.

Factors Affecting Visa 600 Processing Times

Several factors can influence the processing time of your visitor visa application, including:

Inclusion of all necessary supporting documents with your application.
Timely response to requests for additional information.
The time taken by authorities to verify the information in your application.
Gathering additional information related to your health, character, and national security.

To ensure a smooth application process, it’s advisable to apply for your visa well in advance of your intended departure date. Keep in mind that working is not permitted on this visa, but you have the freedom to travel throughout Australia and choose your preferred places to stay. The duration of the visa can range from three months to a year.

In conclusion, the processing time for an Australian tourist visa can vary depending on multiple factors, including the type of visa you’re applying for and your unique circumstances. To ensure your application is processed in a timely manner, it’s best to apply well in advance of your travel dates.

For a hassle-free visa application, consider seeking assistance from immigration experts who can guide you through the process. With the right planning and information, your journey to Australia can be a memorable and enjoyable experience. So, start planning your Australian adventure today!

How to Apply for a Skilled Visa 190/491 in Australia

Skilled Visa 190 and 491 - Complete Guide

Understanding the Skilled Visa 190 and 491

Key Eligibility Criteria

Step-by-Step Application Process

Step 1 - Skills Assessment

Step 2 - Expression of Interest (EOI)

Step 3 - State or Territory Nomination

Step 4 - Invitation to Apply

Step 5 - Lodge Visa Application

Step 6 - Health and Character Checks

Step 7 - Visa Decision

Tips to Maximise Your Points

Common Questions

What is the difference between visa 190 and 491?

How long does the process take?

Can I include family members?

Why Work with A Class Migration Education?

Take the Next Step

Our Blog

Top Courses in Australia for Permanent Residency (PR) in Australia 2024

Our Blog

189 Visa Processing Time Guide

Visa Processing Time in 2023

Skilled Independent Visa Processing Time

Accelerate Your Visa Application

Conclusion

Our Blog

Subclass 820 Partner Visa: Your Path to Australian Partnership

What is the Subclass 820 Partner Visa?

Conclusion

Our Blog

Australia Tourist Visa Processing Time Demystified

Our Blog

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