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General Skilled Migration Visa (GSM): Your Pathway to Australian Residency

At Search Education, we specialize in the General Skilled Migration Visa, helping you secure a skilled worker visa in Australia. With our experience and expertise, we assist you with the best ways to achieve Australian residency.

General Skilled Migration Visa (GSM): Your Pathway to Australian Residency

What is GSM Visa

What is GSM Visa
GSM Visa Types
Eligibility Criteria
Application Process
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Types of General Skilled Migration (GSM)

Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)
Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)
Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190)
Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190)
Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491)
Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491)
Skilled Regional Visa (Subclass 191)
Skilled Regional Visa (Subclass 191)

General Skilled Migration Visa (GSM) Australia

The General Skilled Migration (GSM) visa is designed for skilled workers who are willing to live and work in Australia permanently. The aim of this visa is to attract skilled individuals who can contribute to the Australian economy by filling skill shortages in various industries. To be eligible for skilled worker visa, applicants must have an occupation listed on the Australian Skilled Occupation List (SOL) and must meet the necessary eligibility criteria.

General Skilled Migration visa application process is based on a points system, where applicants are assessed based on different factors, such as age, experience, qualification, level in the English language, and other relevant skills.  

Categories within the General Skilled Migration (GSM) Visa program

At Search Education, our migration agent will provide professional guidance and support for every stream of the General Skilled Migration (GSM) Visa program. We will guide you through the complexities of Australian Immigration law so that your application process is simple and smooth without any hurdle. With our tailored solutions, we help you achieve success in securing your General Skilled Migration Visa (Subclass 189, 190, 491, or 191) and clear the path to Australian Citizenship.

Skilled Independent Visa - Subclass 189

Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) is a permanent residence visa for the skilled workers who have the qualifications and expertise to fulfill skill shortages in Australia. This visa is for those individuals who have not been sponsored by employers, relatives, and have not been nominated by a State or Territory Government.

Skilled Nominated Visa - Subclass 190  

Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190) allows skilled workers to live and work in Australia on a permanent basis. It is based on a points system and the applicant must be nominated by state or territory government in Australia.

Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa - Subclass 491

The Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (subclass 491) lets skilled workers, and their families live, work, and study in designated regional areas for five years. It is also based on a point system, and applicants must be nominated by a state/territory government or sponsored by an eligible family member in a regional area.

Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) Visa - Subclass 191

The Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) Visa (subclass 191) grants Australian citizenship to individuals who have lived and worked in designated regional area. To be eligible for subclass 191, applicants must hold a Subclass 491 or 494 regional provisional visa and meet the minimum income requirements for at least three years.

Eligibility Requirements for the General Skilled Migration Visa

Eligibility to lodge an application for a General Skilled Migration (GSM) Visa depends on the specific visa subclass you are applying for. Each subclass has its own set of requirements. The basic eligibility criteria include having an occupation listed on the Australian Skilled Occupation List (SOL), completing a skills assessment, and meeting the points-based selection system. However, additional requirements may apply based on the particular visa subclass, including state or regional sponsorship, minimum income requirements, and more. 

Below are the basic eligibility criteria, but keep in mind that additional requirements may apply based on the visa subclass type. 

  • Age under 45 years.
  • A nominated occupation on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL).
  • Positive skills assessment for the nominated occupation.
  • Competent English proficiency (e.g., IELTS score of at least 6 in each band).
  • Minimum 65 points on the points test. 


For more detailed information, speak with our experienced Immigration advisor. We have in-depth knowledge of each General Skilled Migration (GSM) visa category, including Subclasses 189, 190, 191 and 491. Our team will guide you through every step of securing your Australian skilled work visa and provide the support you need on your path to Australian citizenship.

Application Process for General Skilled Migration Visas

The process of applying for skilled migration visas can be confusing, even for highly skilled professionals. Here, we have clarified the process of getting GSM visas; however, if you still have questions or doubts, you can interact with our Immigration expert for detailed advice. 

  1. Obtain Skill Assessment
  2. Submit Expression of Interest (EOI)
  3. Receive an Invitation to Apply for a General Skilled Migration Visa  


At Search Education, we offer professional advising and counseling to make your application process uncomplicated. We will be with you every step of your skills evaluation, paperwork, and through your visa application. For complete counseling and to start your application, we urge you to contact us today. 

How can Search Education help you?

  • We will provide expert guidance on visa subclass 189, 190, 491, and 191. 
  • We help you obtain a positive skills assessment. 
  • We will assist you in preparing and submitting your Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect. 
  • Our migration agent will evaluate your Points Test results and ensure that all the points are calculated correctly. 
  • Our Immigration consultant will provide continuous support from initial consultation to the final visa decision. 

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Frequently Asked Questions?

What is GSM in Australia?

The GSM, or General Skilled Migration, is a type of visa that is established to attract skilled immigrant workers from around the world who are willing to migrate to Australia to live, work, and settle permanently. The aim of this visa is to fulfill the Australia skill labor shortages by bringing qualified professionals to various industries and helping to boost Australia's economy. 

Who is eligible to apply for the General Skilled Migration Visa?

Do I need to pass a skill assessment?

What is the Skilled Occupation List (SOL)?

How many points do I need for general skilled migration?

How can I get extra points for general skilled migration?

Do I need to take an English language test?

What skilled workers are in need in Australia?

What if my occupation is not in demand in Australia?

Can I apply for the General Skilled Migration Visa if I am already in Australia on a temporary visa?

Can I include my spouse and children in my General Skilled Migration Visa application?

Can I apply for Australian citizenship after getting the General Skilled Migration Visa?

How long does it take to process a General Skilled Migration Visa application?

What does EOI mean?

Do I need a migration agent to apply for the General Skilled Migration Visa?

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