General Skilled Migration (GSM)
The General Skilled Migration (GSM) program is Australia’s most popular pathway to permanent residency without employer sponsorship. This points-based system allows skilled workers to migrate independently.
If your occupation is on Australia’s skilled occupation list, you may qualify for one of the following skilled migration visas:
The General Skilled Migration (GSM) program is one of the most popular pathways for skilled professionals who wish to live and work in Australia permanently. It is designed to attract highly skilled individuals that possess the qualifications, experience, and English proficiency needed to contribute to Australia’s workforce — particularly in high-demand and regional areas.
The GSM pathway is a points-based system, assessed on factors such as age, English ability, qualifications, work experience, and partner skills.
You can calculate your eligibility score through the EOI Points Calculator.
Core GSM Visa Subclasses
| Visa Subclass | Status | Nomination Requirement | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) | Permanent | None | Live and work anywhere in Australia with immediate permanent residency. |
| Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190) | Permanent | State or Territory Government | Earn 5 extra points; permanent residency tied to your nominating state. |
| Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491) | Provisional (5 Years) | State/Territory Government or Eligible Relative | Earn 15 extra points; pathway to permanent residency (subclass 191) after 3 years in a regional area. |
General Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for any of the GSM visas (189, 190, or 491), applicants must meet the following baseline criteria at the time of their Invitation to Apply:
General Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for any of the GSM visas (189, 190, or 491), applicants must meet the following baseline criteria at the time of their Invitation to Apply:
General Skilled Migration Steps
- 1
Skills Assessment: Obtain a formal skills assessment from the relevant authority (e.g., VETASSESS, ACS, Engineers Australia). Click here to find out more about Skill Assessment.
- 2
Submit Expression of Interest (EOI): Lodge your EOI via SkillSelect, nominating the visa subclass you wish to apply for and providing your supporting details.
- 3
Wait for Invitation: Your EOI is ranked based on your total points. For subclass 190 or 491, you must first receive a nomination from a state, territory, or eligible relative.
- 4
Receive Invitation to Apply (ITA): If selected, you will receive an official ITA to lodge your visa application.
- 5
Lodge Visa Application: Within 60 days of receiving the ITA, submit your application to the Department of Home Affairs with all supporting evidence.
- 6
Visa Grant: Once approved, you will receive your visa — allowing you to live, work, and study in Australia.
Let Us Help You Secure Your Skilled Migration Pathway
At Hays Migration, we understand that applying for a skilled visa can be complex and overwhelming — but you don’t have to do it alone.
Our experienced team of MARA-registered agents and migration lawyers are here to guide you through every step, from assessing your eligibility and improving your EOI score to managing your skills assessment, state nomination, and visa lodgement with care and precision.
We’ll help you identify the right visa pathway — whether it’s subclass 189, 190, or 491 — and create a clear strategy that aligns with your long-term goals in Australia.
Let us help you turn your skills into opportunity.
Contact us today and take the first step towards building your future in Australia with confidence.
