Permanent Visas

Skilled – Independent (Migrant) Visa (subclass 175)

This visa allows you to migrate to Australia if you have good English language skills and have skills and qualifications in an occupation in need in Australia.  You do not require sponsorship to apply for this visa. 

 This visa uses a points test to select visa applicants with characteristics needed in the Australian labour market.    On 1 July 2011 the points test underwent significant changes, and the pass mark for this visa is now 65 points.  If you score less than 65 points, your application will be refused.

Applicants must also:

• be under 50 years of age;
• nominate and hold a skilled assessment for an occupation listed on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL);
• have a competent level of English (minimum score of 6 in each of the four IELTS test components;
• have been employed for 12 out of the last 24 months in an occupation listed on the SOL; OR
• have been awarded a qualification in the last six months following at least two years of study in Australia. The qualification must be closely related to the nominated occupation.

For full details of the current skilled migration points test, please click here.