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There are three main options for skilled migration as an individual for applicants outside Australia. Two of these are permanent, one temporary. Most skilled worker visas not involving employer sponsorship are points tested. Thresholds vary based on the situation of the applicant. Sponsored and regional options provide slightly relaxed requirements and thus offer a lower points threshold. 1. Skilled - Independent (Migrant) visa The applicant must be under 45 and meet English language requirements. Their occupation must be on a skilled occupation list and they must have relevant work experience in 12 of the 24 months leading up to the application. Previous relevant work experience will also be points tested. 2. Skilled - Sponsored (Migrant) visa The requirements for this visa are similar to the visa above, but has a lower points requirement. Applicants must be either sponsored by an eligible relative living in Australia or a participating state government. 3. Skilled - Regional Sponsored (Provisional) visa This is a three-year visa also with a lower points test requirement for applicants seeking to live in a regional area. After living in Australia for two years, and working in a regional area for at least one year applicants are eligible to apply for a permanent visa. Sponsorship can be provided by an eligible relative living in a designated area of Australia or by a participating state government. The remaining options are narrower and require more specific qualifications or skills: Skilled - Recognised Graduate (Temporary) visa This option is limited to those who have gained an engineering degree from a limited number of overseas educational institutions. After the visa has been granted, visa holders have 18 months to gain work experience in Australia and can then apply for the permanent visa in Australia, which will be points tested. Distinguished Talent visa This option is not points tested. The applicant is required to be nominated by an Australian sponsor on the basis of their internationally recognised record of exceptional and outstanding achievement in a profession, the arts, sport, research or academia. |
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