What Is the GSM Program?
The General Skilled Migration (GSM) program is Australia's primary pathway for skilled workers to obtain permanent residency based on their qualifications, work experience, age, and English language ability. Unlike employer-sponsored visas, most GSM visas do not require a job offer before you apply — you are assessed on your potential contribution to the Australian economy.
All GSM visa applicants must submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect before they can be invited to apply. Your occupation must appear on a relevant skilled occupation list, and you must obtain a positive skills assessment from the appropriate assessing authority before lodging your EOI.
The Points Test
To be eligible for an invitation through SkillSelect, you generally need a minimum of 65 points. Points are awarded for:
Age: Maximum 30 points (ages 25–32). Points decrease above and below this range.
English proficiency: Up to 20 points for Superior English (IELTS 8+ in each band); 10 points for Proficient English.
Skilled employment: Up to 20 points for Australian work experience; up to 15 points for overseas experience.
Qualifications: Doctorate (20 pts), Bachelor/Masters (15 pts), Diploma/Trade (10 pts).
State/territory nomination: +5 points (190 visa) or +15 points (491 visa).
Partner skills: +5 points if your partner has a skills assessment and Competent English.
Study in regional Australia: +5 points for 2+ years study in regional areas.
Community language: +5 points for a NAATI-certified credential in a community language.
How the SkillSelect Process Works
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Skills Assessment
Get your occupation assessed by the relevant authority (e.g. Engineers Australia, VETASSESS, ACS). This can take 4–12 weeks depending on the body.
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Lodge Your EOI
Submit your Expression of Interest in SkillSelect with your points score and nominated occupation. EOIs are valid for 2 years.
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Receive an Invitation
The Department of Home Affairs conducts invitation rounds (typically monthly). Highest-scoring EOIs are invited first. Once invited, you have 60 days to apply.
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Lodge the Visa Application
We prepare and submit your complete application, including all supporting documents, health checks, and character requirements.
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Visa Grant
Processing times vary by subclass. Your MARA agent manages all correspondence with the Department until a decision is reached.
Check Your Points Score
Our agents calculate your current score and identify strategies to maximise your chances — free consultation.
GSM Visa Subclasses
Skilled Independent — 189
Permanent visa. No state or employer sponsor required. Points-tested — minimum 65 points. Live and work anywhere in Australia.
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Skilled Nominated — 190
Permanent visa. Nominated by a state or territory government (+5 points). Occupation must appear on state's list.
Skilled Independent — 189
Skilled Work Regional — 491
5-year provisional visa for regional Australia. Pathway to permanent 191 after 3 years. +15 points for state nomination.
Skilled Independent — 189
Temporary Graduate — 485
For recent Australian graduates. Work in Australia for 2–4 years after completing your studies.
