Skilled Independent Visa Australia

The Skilled Independent Visa provides an opportunity for skilled professionals to work in Australia without a sponsor. This visa requires a points test to evaluate the abilities of the potential immigrant. The Skilled Independent Visa is a permanent visa.

Eligibility:
Applicants for this visa must:

• Be under the age of 50
• Have competent ability to speak and understand English
• Nominate an occupation listed on the Australia Skilled Occupation List (SOL)
• Complete skills assessment for chosen occupation
• Have met Australian study requirement or have a history of 12 months total skilled employment experience over past 24 months
• Have met location requirement
• Have met health and character requirements
• Have signed the Australian Values Statement
• Score 65 on the points test

The points test is a system by which Australian immigration determines which people will be a positive addition to the Australian workforce. The points are measured by categories including:

• Age
• English Language Ability
• Australian Study Requirement
• Skilled Employment
• Qualifications
• Credentialed Community Language
• Regional Australia Study
• Partner Skills
• Professional Year

Once awarded this visa, the applicant becomes an Australian permanent resident. Permanent residents of Australia are able to live in Australia and work in any occupation of their choosing. They are free to study at universities or at vocational training schools. They are also able to receive Australian healthcare, access social security pending a waiting period. Permanent residents are not citizens, but they can apply for citizenship once a permanent resident. Permanent residents are also able to sponsor other people for visas or permanent resident.

Once this visa is awarded, the new permanent resident is allowed to travel feely in and out of the country for five years after the visa is granted. If the visa holder wishes to travel in and out of the country beyond the period of five years, he/she must apply for a Resident Return Visa (RRV).

In order to apply for this visa, applicants must submit all necessary forms. Applications can be made online or by post. Applicants must make sure to prove English abilities, proven work or study history, skilled occupation and skills assessment. There are many qualifications for this visa as there is no sponsor required. This visa is for skilled workers hoping to find steady work to improve the economy of Australia and increase the workforce.

Student Visa Transfers:
The Skilled Independent Visa is open to students currently living in Australia on student visas. The student can apply for the Skilled Independent Visa up to six months after completing the course of study. Those eligible include:

• Overseas or former overseas student
• Those who have a Skilled-Graduate visa or a Skilled- Recognised Graduate visa
• Those have a Trade Skills Training visa

Students applying for this visa must still nominate and occupation, provide a skills test and proof of English language ability. These applicants must also score 65 or above on the points test.