Skilled - Independent Visa

The skilled independent visa is the visa of choice for people looking to emigrate to Australia for work and to live. This visa is intended for a candidate that works in a skilled trade and who has yet to find an employer to sponsor them.

What does this visa entitle you to do?

Basically, this visa allows you to become permanent residents of Australia which entitles you to the following:

- permanently live and work in Australia
- makes you eligible for subsidized health care
- apply for Australian citizenship
- allows you to sponsor people for permanent residence

Eligibility

To be successful in your application for this visa, you must accumulate a score of at least 120 on a points test that awards you on everything from age to your skill. The major weighting on this test centers around the skill of the individual looking to emigrate to Australia. You can view the skilled occupation list (SOL) to view what positions are in demand as well as the corresponding points that are awarded. The SOL is actually a PDF document from the Australian Department of Immigration and Citizenship, so be patient with it loading.

A significant amount of points are awarded as well for your English speaking ability. It should come as no surprise that visa candidates whose native tongue is English receive a greater share of points than those who have trouble with the language.

Check your own eligibility

The Australian Department of Immigration and Citizenship have also constructed a points calculator that enables you to determine whether or not you meet the requirements to get this visa. It's quite straight forward and easy to use. You'll be able to quickly determine whether or not you'll likely be successful in your application.

For more information on applying for the skilled independent visa to emigrate to Australia, visit the Australian Department of Immigration and Citizenships website.