Australia has abundance of natural resources and very large area with very small population. To cater the men power demand of growing economy, Australia has a General Skilled Migration (GSM) program to attract skilled people to migrate to Australia in skilled shortage areas of economy. Some GSM visas are points tested. You will be awarded Specific Points depending on your age, English skills, qualifications and work experience. Currently, you must obtain at least 60 points and submit an Expression of Interest (EOI). If your EOI is accepted Immigration department will invite you to apply for the visa. The following information is an overview of the GSM program.

Category Class Subclass Points Notes Duration
Independent SI 189 60 There is no requirement of sponsorship. However, an invitation to apply is required. This application can be lodged onshore or offshore. Permanent
Nominated SN 190 60 There is a requirement of nomination by either state or territory government. Also an invitation to apply is required. This application can be lodged onshore or offshore. Permanent
Regional Provisional SP 489 60 Invitation to apply is required Sponsorship by relative usually resident in a designated area or,Nomination by state or territory government Application can be lodged onshore or offshore 4 years
Temporary Graduate VC 485 N/A There are two streams for this subclass. Post Study Work Stream allows International Student Visa holders to apply for post study work in Australia, who have successfully completed two years of study. Graduate Work Visa Onshore application and visa grant only 18 months from the date of grand 2-4 Years
Recognised Graduate VF 476 N/A This visa is for recognized eligible international students who studied in an eligible institution Application can be lodged onshore and offshore. 18 Months
Regional VB 887 N/A Permanent visa for skilled regional sponsored visas Onshore application and grant only Permanent