Skilled Migration Visas, Geelong, Victoria

The visa options for skilled workers have become more complicated in the last year. Instead of one skilled occupation list there are now four, with the promise that the main list is going to change frequently.

The clear trend in migration is for applicants to find sponsorship, either via an employer or via the state. Processing times for skilled migration are faster than if you apply independently.

Major differences in the skilled migration program:

Independent migration

• Points tested
• Primary applicant must be under 50yo
• IELTS result must be 6/4 or better
• NO fast track
• Skills assessment required
• Click here for the current Skilled Occupation List for independent migration

State sponsored migration

• Points tested
• Primary applicant must be under 50yo
• IELTS result must be 6/4 or better
• Wider list of skilled occupations applies

Employer sponsored migration

• NO points test
  
• Employer and position must also be approved
  
• Concessions for AGE and ENGLISH
  
• Skill testing may be required but not mandatory in all cases
  
• Wider list of skilled occupations applies
• Can be fast tracked

As of July 2011 a new points test applies to state sponsored and independent skilled migration.