The Queensland Government has made an important announcement about the reopening of the Migration Queensland Program for the fiscal year 2023-24, a key development that pertains to individuals intending to migrate to Australia.
This program, managed by Trade and Investment Queensland (TIQ), is anticipated to recommence in mid-2023 after a brief hiatus that was implemented due to the COVID-19 pandemic which disrupted global travels and migration. However, applicants should note that no new invitations will be extended until the program’s reopening.
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Additionally, prospective applications are informed of crucial changes to the work and occupation assessment criteria under the Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491). Namely, the years of post-qualification work experience requirement in Queensland has been increased from three to five years. This change extends to both offshore and onshore candidates, substantially increasing the professional experience threshold for program eligibility.
It’s important to mention that these modifications apply solely to the occupations that fall within the Health, ICT/Engineering, and Trade categories. The State Migration team will continue to review other occupations on the Queensland Skilled Occupation Lists (QSOLs).
Occupation Lists
The Queensland Migration Occupation Lists, presented by Business and Skilled Migration Queensland (BSMQ), indicate occupations in demand in Queensland (part of Australia) for visa nomination. These lists vary depending on which visa subclass they are related to. The specific visa subclasses associated are: Subclass 491 – Small Business Owners, Subclass 491 – Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa, and Subclass 190 – Skilled Nominated visa.
With the Subclass 491 – Small Business Owners category, the occupation list isn’t defined. Applicants must own a small business in regional Queensland while living in the region itself to qualify. Under this subclass, additional occupations are accessible without being listed.
For the Subclass 491 – Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa and Subclass 190 – Skilled Nominated visa, there is a clear occupation list. It comprises multiple fields such as managerial, professional, and trade occupations, in sectors like agriculture, arts, administration, construction, health services, hospitality, IT, and more. The primary eligibility requirement is prior work experience in the nominated occupation, though exact criteria may vary depending upon the occupation.
All the subclasses are designed to address specific skills shortages in the region, thus helping the Australian government’s initiative to push growth and investment in regional Australia. It is important to note that meeting the criteria doesn’t guarantee a visa nomination. Also, these lists are subject to amendments without prior notice.
On a general basis, the lists follow a defined professional classification system called Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO). It is a system that collects, publishes, and analyses occupation statistics.
The invitation process from BSMQ happens where eligible EOIs lodged in SkillSelect get picked, which don’t automatically indicate permanent resident visa grant. Additionally, there is a capped number of occupation places and once that limit is reached, the occupation is removed from the list, irrespective of the visa subclass. Several other determinants like age and specific skill assessments also form an essential part of the application process.
Queensland Migration Occupation Lists is a principal guide for aspirants seeking visa nomination based on specific skills shortages in Queensland. Depending upon the visa subclass and occupation, the specifics differ. Nonetheless, being on the list does not guarantee a visa grant, and it’s subjected to various conditions and eligibility rules. These lists are dynamic, adapting to changing needs, and should always be referred to in their most recent format for accurate information.
Skilled Worker Living in Queensland
Several visa options can aid skilled workers to become permanent residents, thus contributing to Queensland’s growing economy. Queensland Government Migration Services website provide a comprehensive guideline on two main subclasses: the Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) subclass 491 visa and the Skilled Nominated subclass 190 visas.
Starting with Subclass 491 visa, it is aimed at qualified individuals who are either working or are ready to work in Queensland, especially in a regional area. The prominent benefits of the 491 visa are the validity period (up to 5 years), the chance to live, work, and study in designated regional areas, the possibilities for unlimited travel in and out of Australia, and priority processing for visa applications. However, to ensure applicant eligibility, the visa has requirements such as an active job offer or employment in a regional area in one of the declared occupations. Also, applicants must obtain a positive skills assessment and demonstrate competent English, among other requirements.
Regarding the Subclass 190 visa, it is intended for those who possess relevant skills and are currently residing and working in Queensland. Unlike the 491 visa, this subclass provides permanent residency. The 190 visa offers several benefits like the right to live, work, and study in Australia with healthcare entitlements and the potential to apply for Australian citizenship. In similar manner, the 190 visa comprises specific criteria that applicants must satisfy. These include working in your nominated or closely related occupation for at least six months, acquiring a permanent, full‐time job offer, and having a positive skills assessment, among others.
Both visa types place a strong emphasis on skills and employment. There is a list of nominated occupations suitable for each visa subclass. Therefore, applicants must assess these lists to see whether their skillset fits. It’s also important to note that some occupations may have additional special requirements.
Reality testing is crucial before the process for either visa subclass starts. Applicants must be capable of fully supporting themselves and dependent family members while maintaining health insurance, since Medicare benefits (available to permanent residents and citizens) will not be available during the visa application process. In some cases, applicants might require more proof of financial capacity, particularly if they are new to Queensland or have substantial dependents to consider.
Queensland Government Migration Services recommends keenly considering these factors when deciding to apply for either of these visas. Also, applicants are reminded to check Australia’s Department of Home Affairs website for additional information due to the potential for changes to visa options, conditions, and nomination criteria.
The visa classes 491 and 190 offer provisional and permanent options, assisting skilled workers in settling into the region and contributing to its continual growth. It’s a process that demands attention and due diligence to ensure all the standards are met. Nevertheless, such process can lead to a fruitful career and way of life for skilled workers in Queensland.
Skilled Worker Living Offshore
The Skilled Workers Living Offshore can avail different visas that enable them to work and live in Queensland. Comprehending these visa options is crucial for making an informed decision about your migration journey.
Firstly, Queensland’s Business and Skilled Migration Queensland (BSMQ) nominates skilled migrants for visas, such as the Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491), and the Skilled Nominated (Permanent) visa (subclass 190). However, securing nomination is not a guarantee of visa approval, as it is subject to Immigration Department’s decision.
The subclass 491 visa, designed for skilled workers wanting to live and work in regional areas of Australia, allows you to work in a designated regional area for five years, and your immediate family can also apply for this visa. To be considered, you must be nominated by an Australian state or territory or sponsored by an eligible family member residing in a designated regional area.
Eligibility involves submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI) in SkillSelect, having an occupation listed on the current Department of Home Affairs’ eligible skilled occupations list, and meeting the Australian Department of Home Affairs’ eligibility criteria. Additionally, you should meet BSMQ criteria which include having a job offer in your nominated occupation and full-time working rights, demonstrating sufficient settlement funds, and a commitment to live and work in Queensland. Post-visa grant, you must reside and work in a regional area for a minimum of two years.
The subclass 190 visa is a permanent visa for skilled workers who meet the eligibility criteria and have skills in demand in Australia’s labour market. Like the subclass 491 visa, you must submit an EOI in SkillSelect, meet the Department of Home Affairs’ eligibility criteria, including having an occupation listed on the current eligible skilled occupations, and fulfill BSMQ criteria.
The additional BSMQ requirements for subclass 190 mandate you to be working in your nominated occupation for a minimum of six months and having an ongoing job offer from your employer for your nominated occupation. The visa obliges you to live and work in Queensland for two years after visa grant, although you can travel in and out of Australia while fulfilling this obligation.
For both visas, BSMQ reviews your EOI after you have received an invitation to apply. The review takes into account your occupation, work experience, English language ability, and skills assessment outcome. It’s worth noting that initial contact from BSMQ will be via email, so you must regularly check your inbox as well as ‘junk’ or ‘spam’ folders. Following the assessment, BSMQ may send out an invitation to lodge an application for the state nomination.
Keep in mind that the Australian government charges a visa application charge, with a further charge for each secondary applicant. There may also be cost implications for skills assessment, English testing, and health checks. The process of gaining a nomination from Queensland could take between two to eight weeks. During this time, you should not contact BSMQ, as it will not speed up the assessment or result in a positive outcome.
Skilled Visa Options for Graduates of a Queensland University
The Queensland government offers several skilled visa options for graduates from Queensland universities, making career transitions a smoother experience. These visas enable students to apply their knowledge and skills gained during their studies to their desired profession within the Australian workforce. Understanding these options can help potential applicants make informed decisions and start their career journey in the right professional direction.
Primarily, Queensland offers two skilled visa subclasses for recent graduates - subclass 190 and subclass 491 - both aimed at helping graduates seek permanent residency in Australia. Subclass 492, commonly known as the Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa, is another pathway towards permanent residency in Australia.
The Subclass 190 (Permanent) visa is a points-tested stream available to all eligible international graduates who have completed a higher level degree such as a Doctorate, Masters or Bachelors degree from a Queensland university. This visa allows recent university graduates to live, work, and study anywhere within Australia, leading towards permanent Australian residency.
On the other hand, the Subclass 491 (Provisional) visa, also a points-tested stream, provides a temporary residencies pathway. This visa is exclusively for international students who have recently graduated with either a degree or a trade qualification from a recognized Queensland institution. Unlike the Subclass 190, this visa requires graduates to live and work in a regional area of Australia for a minimum of three years to qualify for permanent residency.
The Subclass 492 or Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa is designed for significant investors or business owners who wish to operate a new or existing business in regional Queensland. It provides applicants with temporary housing for their family, and the opportunity to enrol their children in Queensland’s education system, amongst other benefits.
The qualifications a graduate can apply with can range from a Certificate III completed in 2 years in a Queensland location, to a Masters by Research or a PhD degree from a Queensland institution. Depending upon your degree, different stipulations apply. Graduates of a PhD or Masters by Research from a Queensland institution, are not required to meet additional work experience after graduation. For undergraduates (Bachelor’s degree) or trade qualifications, graduates are required to meet the work experience requirement or job offer criterion.
There are some conditions applicants must meet for their visa applications to be accepted. They must be under 45 years of age, competent in English, nominated for a role that matches their skills, and invited through a SkillSelect expression of interest. For the Subclass 190 visa, applicants must hold a degree or have completed a trade qualification within the last two years and meet the work experience requirement, while for the Subclass 491 visa, no experience is necessary, but applicants must be willing to live, work or study in regional Australia.
It’s essential for applicants to score high on the migration points test, based on their age, English language ability, skilled employment outside Australia, educational qualifications, and other factors. Obtaining higher points can significantly increase the chance of receiving an invitation to apply for the visa.
Applicants who wish to bring their family members to live with them in Australia can do so once they gain status as permanent residents. Both visas also include access to Medicare, Australia’s governmental healthcare provider, ensuring that applicants and their families receive the medical care they need.
Seeking Australian permanent residency as a skilled worker is an excellent opportunity for qualified and aspiring individuals.
Small Business Owners Visa in Regional Queensland
The Queensland Government offers visa options for small business owners aspiring to operate in regional Queensland. The two key options include the Subclass 491 - Small Business Owners Pathway and the Subclass 188 - Business Innovation visa.
The Subclass 491 Small Business Owners (SBO) Pathway is a temporary visa program allowing small business owners to live and operate a business in regional Queensland. It offers an avenue for obtaining permanent residency under the Subclass 191 Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) visa.
To qualify for the Subclass 491 SBO Pathway, you must live and operate a small business in regional Queensland for at least six months before lodging an Expression of Interest (EOI). Your business should have a minimum turnover of AUD$100,000 in the year preceding the EOI submission and you must hold or be eligible to hold an active 491 visa. You must be a 49% or more owner of the business, and cannot work elsewhere. The business should also create employment.
The Subclass 188 - Business Innovation visa is a pathway for successful business owners or investors from overseas to operate new or existing businesses in Queensland. It is a four-year provisional visa, that offers a route to permanent residency through the Business Innovation and Investment (Permanent) visa (subclass 888).
To be eligible for the Subclass 188 visa, there is a points-based system and other significant requirements. An applicant must be under 55 years of age (exceptions apply), have an overall successful business career, and no involvement in unacceptable business activities. The main business requirements include owning the business for at least two out of four years before lodging an EOI; having at least AUD$500,000 net business and personal assets; and having a business turnover of at least AUD$500,000 in two of the last four fiscal years.
The application process for these visas involves applying online and providing the necessary supporting documents. Successful applications will receive a State Nomination from Business and Skilled Migration Queensland (BSMQ).
Though there are certain conditions to maintain the visas, both offer enticing benefits. They provide a pathway to permanent residence while allowing business owners to bring their family members to Queensland. Along with this, visa holders have the freedom to travel to and from Australia multiple times during the visa period.
Both visa types emphasize the importance of contributing positively to the Queensland economy. Beneficiaries are encouraged to take up initiatives that drive economic growth, promote job creation, and enhance business innovation in the regional areas.
For business owners looking to migrate to Australia, these visa options offer a great opportunity. Queensland, known for its robust economy, safe environment, world-class infrastructure, and quality lifestyle, makes an ideal choice for international business aspirants planning to establish in regional areas.
Take note that it is highly recommended to seek professional advice and assistance when applying for these visas. The eligibility requirements might appear complex and individual circumstances can significantly affect the application’s outcome. Be sure to work closely with an experienced migration agent to ensure a smooth and successful process.
Conclusion
The forthcoming reopening of the Migration Queensland Program continues to uphold the state’s international reputation as a preferred destination for skilled migrants. The opportunity for building a prosperous career in this dynamic and inclusive destination has always been a magnet, attracting a diverse pool of professionals from across the globe.
The refinement of the Migration Queensland Program mark a positive step forward, reflecting Queensland’s commitment to attract high-quality overseas talent while ensuring a fair and equitable process for all applicants.