Australia Increases Allocation for Subclass 190 Visa

January 24, 2024 – The Australian government has announced a significant increase in the allocation for the Subclass 190 Skilled Nominated visa for the 2024-2025 migration program. The number of visas available has been raised from 10,300 to 16,500, marking a substantial 60% increase. This move is part of a broader strategy to attract more skilled professionals to address labor shortages in various sectors across the country.

Key Details and Requirements

The Subclass 190 visa is designed for skilled workers who are nominated by an Australian state or territory. To be eligible, applicants must meet the following requirements:

1. Occupation: Your occupation must be on the relevant skilled occupation list.
2. Skills Assessment: You must have a positive skills assessment for your nominated occupation.
3. Points Test: You need to score at least 65 points on the points test.
4. State Nomination: You must be nominated by an Australian state or territory.
5. Age: You must be under 45 years old at the time of application.
6. English Proficiency: You need to demonstrate competent English language skills.
7. Health and Character: You must meet health and character requirements, including passing a medical examination and a police background check.

Eligibility and Benefits

To be eligible for the Subclass 190 visa, applicants must:

• Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect.
• Be nominated by an Australian state or territory.
• Have a positive skills assessment for their nominated occupation.
• Score at least 65 points on the points test.
• Be proficient in English.
• Meet health and character requirements.

The benefits of the Subclass 190 visa include:

• Permanent Residency: You can live and work anywhere in Australia.
• Work and Study: You have the right to work full-time or part-time in any skilled occupation and study any course.
• Healthcare: Access to Medicare, Australia’s public healthcare system.
• Social Security Benefits: Eligibility for certain social security benefits.
• Pathway to Citizenship: After four years of living and working in Australia, you can apply for Australian citizenship.

State-Specific Allocations

The increase in allocations varies by state and territory. For example:

• Tasmania: The allocation has increased from 600 to 2,100 (a 250% increase). This aims to boost the state’s economy and fill skill shortages in sectors such as healthcare, education, and construction.
• Western Australia: The allocation has risen from 1,500 to 3,000 (a 100% increase). This will help address labor shortages in mining, agriculture, and technology industries.
• Victoria: The state has seen an increase from 3,000 to 5,500, focusing on attracting professionals in the fields of healthcare, engineering, and information technology.
• New South Wales: The allocation has increased from 3,200 to 5,000, targeting skilled migrants in sectors such as finance, healthcare, and education.

Government’s Vision

The Australian government aims to address labor shortages through targeted migration policies. By increasing the allocation for the Subclass 190 visa, Australia hopes to attract highly skilled professionals who can contribute to the economy and help fill critical gaps in various industries. The increase in visa numbers is also expected to promote regional growth and development, as many states and territories face specific skill shortages that hinder their economic progress.

Application Process

Applying for the Subclass 190 visa involves several steps:

1. Expression of Interest (EOI): Submit an EOI through SkillSelect, detailing your skills, qualifications, and experience.
2. State Nomination: Obtain a nomination from an Australian state or territory, which involves meeting their specific requirements and demonstrating how you will contribute to their economy.
3. Invitation to Apply: If selected, you will receive an invitation to apply for the visa.
4. Visa Application: Submit your visa application, including all required documents such as your skills assessment, English language test results, and health and character checks.
5. Processing and Approval: The Department of Home Affairs will assess your application. If approved, you will be granted a Subclass 190 visa.

Conclusion

The increase in the Subclass 190 visa allocation is a positive development for skilled professionals looking to migrate to Australia. It provides more opportunities for individuals to contribute to the Australian economy and address labor shortages in various sectors. This move reflects Australia’s commitment to building a robust and diverse workforce capable of supporting the country’s economic growth and development.

With the increased allocation, now is an ideal time for skilled professionals to explore the opportunities offered by the Subclass 190 visa and consider making Australia their new home.