What is the Skilled-Independent Category ?

Skilled independent visa categories refer to those applicants who meet the requirements for a skilled visa and do not have a sponsor.

There are four categories under which you can apply for a Skilled-Independent category visa :

• Skilled-Independent : you must be under 45 years of age, be highly skilled and have education and employability, that will contribute quickly to the Australian economy. You must satisfy the basic requirements and pass the points test.
• Skill Matching : this subclass is not points tested. Consider this subclass if you satisfy the basic requirements but it is unlikely you will pass the Points test.
• Skilled-Independent Overseas Students : this subclass is available to eligible overseas students in Australia who want to apply for permanent residence. You must satisfy the basic requirements and pass the Points test.
• Skilled Independent New Zealand : this subclass is available to New Zealand citizens in Australia who want to apply for permanent residence. You must satisfy the basic requirements and pass the Points test.

What are the basic requirements for a Skilled-Independent category visa ?

To apply for a Skilled-Independent category visa you, or your spouse, must be able to satisfy basic requirements :

• under 45 years of age when you apply;
• sufficient English language ability for working in Australia;
• post-secondary (such as university or trade) qualifications;
• skills assessed by the relevant assessing authority for your nominated occupation before you apply;
• nominate an occupation which fits your skills and qualifications when you apply. Your nominated occupation must be on the Skilled Occupations List (SOL);
• recent work experience.

Note : You may not need to meet the work experience requirement if you have completed an Australian post-secondary qualification less than 6 months before lodging your visa application.

If you are not able to satisfy these basic requirements, you should NOT continue with a Skilled Migration application.

How do I apply for a Skilled-Independent category visa using Skill Matching ?

Skill Matching aims to improve the dispersal of skilled migrants within Australia by matching them with identified skill shortages. Skill Matching links General Skilled Migration applicants with :

• a State or Territory where the applicant's skills have been identified as being in shortage, or
• an employer with a specific skilled vacancy.

The Skill Matching category is not points tested. You should consider this category if :

• you are not certain or it is unlikely you will pass the points test,
• you satisfy the basic requirements for skill, age and English language proficiency but with a lesser recent work experience requirement.

Skill Matching is made possible through a skill matching database. Your details will be placed in the database and stay there for up to 2 years.
This database is designed to help regional employers or State/Territory Government agencies find people who have applied to migrate to Australia and who could possibly fill specific skilled work vacancies. It is NOT a job search facility.

More information on the skilled-independent visas

The first step on this process is to complete a skills assessment. We will then be able to advise you of your eligibility to migrate to Australia. Click here