No, a job offer is not required. Under the General Skilled Migration (GSM) program (Subclasses 189, 190, or 491), you can qualify, apply for, and be granted a visa based on your skills and qualifications alone. Once your Permanent Residency (PR) visa is granted, you are free to work in any role in Australia.

You can look for job openings through major Australian job boards like Seek.com.au or by updating your LinkedIn profile.

Note: Most employers require you to have a valid visa before applying. Once your visa is granted, Respall Migration Australia will provide you with direct links and resources to help you apply for jobs online.

Visa application charges vary based on the specific subclass and the number of dependents included:

• Primary Applicant: AUD $6,135 (Subclass 189) to AUD $6,140 (Subclasses 190 & 491).

• Secondary Applicant (18 years or older): AUD $3,070.

• Secondary Applicant (under 18 years old): AUD $1,535.

Once we assess your profile, we will invite you to a consultation to discuss the complete cost breakdown and application process.

To get a Skilled Nominated Visa, you must:

1. Pass the General Skilled Migration points assessment (minimum 65 points).

2. Ensure your occupation is on the open skills list for a specific state or territory.

3. Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) and secure a formal invitation/approval for nomination from that state or territory.

The minimum requirement to submit a valid application is 65 points. However, because these visas are competitive, aiming for a higher score significantly increases your chances of receiving an invitation to apply.

A Skills Assessment is a mandatory evaluation that verifies whether your qualifications and work experience meet Australian standards for your nominated occupation.

To get one, your documents must be submitted to and positively evaluated by the specific assessing authority designated for your profession. A positive outcome is required before lodging your Expression of Interest (EOI).

• Subclass 189 (Skilled Independent Visa): A Permanent Resident (PR) visa that lets you live, work, and study anywhere in Australia without restriction.

• Subclass 190 (Skilled Nominated Visa): A Permanent Resident (PR) visa sponsored by a specific state or territory. You must live and work in the nominating state for your first 2 years.

• Subclass 491 (Skilled Work Regional Visa): A 5-year Provisional (Temporary) visa. You must live and work in a designated regional area for 3 years, which creates a pathway to Permanent Residency

An EOI remains active for 2 years from the date of submission, provided that your Skills Assessment and English test results remain valid during that period.

There is no single “easiest” state, as requirements depend on which occupations each state or territory is actively targeting at any given time. However, you can submit an EOI to multiple states simultaneously—whichever state approves your nomination first will allow you to move forward with your visa application.