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Rockdale
NSW 2216 Australia
Tel: +61-2-7257 7924
Email: info@sbsconsultant.com.au
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Putalisadak
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Tel: +977-01-4525382
Email: ktm@sbsconsultant.com.au
GSM Visa
Introduction
The General Skilled Migration (GSM) visa is Australia’s main pathway for skilled workers who want to live and work permanently in the country. It’s designed for people with in-demand skills and qualifications that Australia needs. This visa lets you live, work, and study anywhere in Australia without needing a job offer first. If you’re a skilled worker dreaming of starting a new life in Australia, the GSM visa could be your ticket to permanent residency and eventually Australian citizenship. The programme is highly competitive, with invitation numbers varying based on Australia’s current economic needs and labour market demands.
Eligibility Requirements
Basic Criteria
- Must be under 45 years old when you apply.
- Can be from any country (no nationality restrictions)
- Must pass health checks and have good character
- No criminal record or serious health issues
Specific Requirements
- Your job must be on Australia's skilled occupation list
- Need at least 65 points on the points test (covers age, English skills, education, and work experience).
- Must have your skills assessed by the right authority for your job
- Need competent English (IELTS 6 or equivalent provides 0 points, while proficient English at IELTS 7 provides 10 points, and superior English at IELTS 8 provides 20 points)
- Must show you have enough money to support yourself and your family
- Work experience must be closely related to your nominated occupation, post-qualification, a minimum of 20 hours per week, and based on job responsibilities rather than job title.
- Educational qualifications that match Australian standards
The points system rewards younger applicants (25-32 years get a maximum of 30 points and those with better English, higher education, and more work experience. Meeting the 65-point threshold is just the starting point, and aiming for a higher score significantly enhances your chances of being invited.
Application Process
Step-by-Step Overview
1
Preparation
Get your skills assessed and English test results.
2
Online Application
Submit Expression of Interest through SkillSelect.
3
Invitation
Wait to receive an invitation to apply (invitation rounds run periodically during the programme year).
4
Full Application
Submit complete application via ImmiAccount.
5
Biometrics
Attend appointment if required.
6
Assessment
The Immigration office reviews your application.
7
Decision
Receive your visa outcome.
Key Tips
- Higher EOI scores (80+ points) typically receive invitations faster.
- Don’t submit incomplete applications – they get refused automatically
- Keep all documents current and translated into English
- Receiving a visa is not guaranteed even if you meet the minimum requirements, as the process is competitive.
Required Documents
Essential Documentation
- Current passport and birth certificate
- Skills assessment from the relevant authority
- English language test results (IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL)
- Educational certificates and transcripts
- Work experience letters and employment contracts demonstrating duties that align with your nominated occupation.
- Health examination results from approved doctors
- Police clearance certificates from all countries you've lived in
Relationship and Family Documentation
- Detailed resume showing all work history
- Professional references from current and previous employers
- Evidence of any professional memberships or licenses
- Partner's skills assessment and English test (if claiming partner points)
- Australian study certificates (if you studied in Australia)
Processing Time & Costs
Application Fee
Current fees require verification from official sources
Additional Costs
Skills assessment, English tests, health exams, police checks
Processing Time
For subclass 190 (state-nominated), the average is 6.5-12 months, with priority occupations processed in 1-3 months, standard occupations in 6.5-12 months, and non-priority occupations in 14-22 months.
Tips for Faster Processing
Submit complete applications with all documents properly certified, respond quickly to any requests for additional information, and consider priority occupations if eligible
Rights and Restrictions
What You Can Do
- Live, work, and study anywhere in Australia permanently
- Access Medicare (Australia's public health system)
- Apply for Australian citizenship after meeting residency requirements
- Sponsor eligible family members for permanent residency
Limitations
- Specific residency requirements for maintaining permanent residency require verification from official sources
- Social security payment restrictions require verification from official sources
Pathway to Permanent Residence
This visa gives you immediate permanent residency. After meeting residency requirements, you can apply for Australian citizenship and get an Australian passport.
Common Challenges & Solutions
Challenge 1: Not getting enough points
Solution: Improve English scores (IELTS 8 gives 20 points vs IELTS 6 giving 0 points), get additional qualifications, or gain more skilled work experience before applying
Challenge 2: Skills assessment rejection
Solution: Ensure your work experience is closely related to your nominated occupation and your duties align with ANZSCO occupation descriptions.
Pro Tip
State nomination visas (subclass 190) provide additional pathways, with state-specific processing times varying from 2 weeks to 5 months depending on the state.
Conclusion
The GSM visa offers an excellent pathway to permanent life in Australia for skilled workers. Start by checking if your occupation is on the skilled list and getting your skills assessed. Consider working with a registered migration agent if your case is complex. Focus on maximising your points score, as higher scores significantly improve your chances of receiving an invitation. Begin your skills assessment and English test preparation to start your Australian journey today.
Note: Some specific details regarding fees, exact document requirements, and certain restrictions require verification from current official Department of Home Affairs sources, as this information was not fully covered in the available search results.