General Skilled Migration
Australia needs skilled people. If you’ve got the experience, qualifications, and English skills, the General Skilled Migration (GSM) program could be your ticket to a new life Down Under.
But before you start dreaming of kangaroos and coastal cafes, there’s a process to follow. And yes, it can get complicated. That’s where we come in.
At CIA Lawyers, we break it all down for you—clear, simple, and with expert legal help every step of the way.
What Is the General Skilled Migration (GSM) Program?
The GSM program allows skilled workers who aren’t sponsored by an employer to apply for a visa based on their skills and potential to contribute to the economy. It’s a points-tested system, meaning your eligibility is based on things like your age, English level, qualifications, and work experience.
In short: if you’ve got the skills, Australia might want you. But you’ve got to score well.
Visa Subclasses Under GSM
There are a few different visas under the GSM umbrella. Each comes with its own conditions and benefits.
- Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189) – No sponsorship needed. Permanent residency straight up.
- Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190) – Requires nomination from an Australian state or territory. Also gives permanent residency.
- Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (subclass 491) – For those willing to live and work in regional areas. Leads to permanent residency via subclass 191.
- Skilled Regional Visa (subclass 191) – For people who’ve held the 491 for 3 years and meet the income requirement.
- Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485) – For international students who’ve recently graduated from an Australian institution.
The Points Test – How It Works
To qualify for most GSM visas, you’ll need to score at least 65 points on the points test. But here’s the thing: 65 is the minimum. The higher your score, the better your chances of receiving an invitation.
Here’s how the points break down:
Age
- 25–32 years: 30 points
- 18–24 or 33–39: 25 points
- 40–44: 15 points
- 45+: Not eligible
English Language Skills
- Superior English (IELTS 8 or equivalent): 20 points
- Proficient English (IELTS 7): 10 points
- Competent English (IELTS 6): 0 points
Work Experience
In Australia:
- Up to 8 years: 5–20 points
Outside Australia:
- 3+ years: 5–15 points
Education
- Doctorate: 20 points
- Bachelor/Master: 15 points
- Trade qualification: 10 points
Other Ways to Boost Points
- Australian study requirement: 5 points
- STEM research-based degree: 10 points
- Partner skills: Up to 10 points
- Credentialed community language: 5 points
- Regional study: 5 points
- Professional year program: 5 points
- State or territory nomination (subclass 190): 5 points
- Regional sponsorship (subclass 491): 15 points
Want to calculate your points? Use the official Department of Home Affairs Points Calculator.
What’s the Application Process?
Here’s what you need to do if you’re serious about migrating under the GSM program:
- Check if your occupation is on the Skilled Occupation List. You can find it on the official Home Affairs website.
- Get a positive skills assessment from the right assessing authority for your occupation.
- Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect.
- If you’re eligible and score well, you may receive an invitation to apply.
- Lodge your visa application within 60 days of receiving the invitation.
- Wait for the decision. Be patient—it can take several months.
Important: Even if you meet all the criteria, there’s no guarantee of getting an invitation. It’s competitive. The higher your score, the better your chances.
State and Territory Nominations
Want to boost your chances? Consider state or territory nomination. Each state has its own skilled occupation list and criteria.
Check out the official state nomination programs:
- New South Wales
- Victoria
- South Australia
- Queensland
- Western Australia
- Tasmania
- Northern Territory
- ACT
Tips to Improve Your Points
Want to give yourself the best chance?
- Boost your English test score
- Gain more relevant work experience
- Complete further studies
- Apply for a state nomination
- Make sure your partner meets the skill criteria
- Study in regional Australia for extra points
Why Choose CIA Lawyers?
At CIA Lawyers, we take the stress out of applying for a General Skilled Migration visa.
Whether you’re figuring out your points score, preparing a skills assessment, or lodging your EOI, our team is here to support you from start to finish — no guesswork, no overwhelm.
We’ll help you avoid delays, cut through the confusion, and boost your chances of getting approved.
Leave the paperwork to us and focus on what matters most — reach out to CIA Lawyers today and take the next step towards your future in Australia.
Conclusion
The General Skilled Migration program offers a real opportunity for skilled workers to live and work permanently in Australia. But it’s not a walk in the park. It’s competitive. It’s technical. And it’s worth doing right.
With the right help, you’ll avoid the common traps, boost your chances, and move one step closer to your Australian dream.
And when you’re ready to take that step, CIA Lawyers will be here to guide you through it all—no stress, no guesswork.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What’s the minimum score I need for a GSM visa?
A: You need at least 65 points—but the higher your score, the better your chances of receiving an invitation.
Q: Can I apply for GSM while in Australia?
A: Yes, depending on your visa conditions. You don’t always have to be offshore.
Q: What if my skills assessment expires before I get an invitation?
A: You’ll need to get a new one. It must be valid at the time of invitation and application.
Q: Can I include my family in my visa application?
A: Yes. Your partner and children can be included in most GSM visa subclasses.
Q: What happens if I claim points I’m not eligible for?
A: You risk your visa being refused. Always be honest—it’s not worth the risk.
Our Process
Connect with a qualified solicitor to discuss your immigration needs and determine the best strategy for securing your visa under Australian immigration law.
Our legal consultants will guide you through the preparation of all required documentation, including any necessary written or oral submissions.
We stand by your side throughout the entire process, advocating on your behalf and supporting you until your visa application is successfully approved.
Visa Services
- Visitor Visas (Subclass 600)
- Student Visas (Subclass 500)
- Work Visas
- Partner Visas (Subclass 820/801)
- Family Visas
- Business & Investment Visas
- Skilled Migration
Let Us Help You !
we are dedicated to helping you achieve your visa and immigration goals.
