Migration Queensland has announced the commencement of accepting expressions of interest (EOI) for the Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491) and the Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190) from 20 January 2023 for the 2023-24 program year. The state now has restored its full skilled occupation list. However, applicants will need to meet additional criteria such as living and working in Queensland for the subclass 190 visa. Applications of those already living and working in regional Queensland for at least 3 months and have an ongoing job offer will highly be considered for both subclasses.
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When is the Migration Queensland Program for the year 2023-2024 opening?
The Migration Queensland Program will be opening on 1 July 2023 for the 2023-2024 program year.
What is the goal of the Migration Queensland Program for the year 2023-2024?
The goal of the program is to attract highly skilled migrants in targeted occupations that have been identified as in demand in Queensland and deliver a range of economic, social, and cultural benefits.
Which skilled immigration programs will the Migration Queensland administer?
The program will administer the skilled immigration programs • Subclass 190 – Skilled Nominated • Subclass 491 – Skilled Work Regional (Provisional).
Where can I find updates related to the Migration Queensland Program?
All updates are published on the Business and Skilled Migration Queensland (BSMQ) website and subscribed stakeholders will be sent an update via email. To subscribe, visit the BSMQ website and fill the subscription form.
Will the program be opening for business nominations as well?
Yes, the Migration Queensland Program will be opening for business nominations including Subclass 188 – Business Innovation and Investment (Provisional) visa including Significant Investor stream from 1 July 2023 simultaneously.
When will the state nomination skilled migration program open?
The program is currently open since on 5 September 2023
Occupation Lists FAQ
What is the "Occupation List" on the Queensland Migration website?
The Occupation List is a comprehensive and curated list of occupations that are in demand in the region of Queensland, Australia. It provides information on the skilled occupations which are currently in demand and available for migration purpose to applicants who wish to move to Queensland.
How many types of Occupation Lists are available on the website?
There are four types of lists available on the Queensland Migration website: the Queensland Skilled Occupation Lists (QSOL), the Offshore and Onshore Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List, Long Term Skill Shortage List, and Regional Provisional visa (subclass 491) - Medium term stream occupation list.
How can I use the Occupation List?
The Occupation Lists are used in conjunction with the Queensland Skilled Migration Nomination Program. If your occupation is listed, you may be eligible to apply for a state-nominated visa. Each occupation listed also has an associated ANZSCO code which you can use to further research about the occupation.
Can I apply for a visa if my job is not in the list?
If your occupation is not on the list, you may not be eligible for state-nominated migration to Queensland. However, you may still be eligible for other types of visas. It is advised to consult with a registered migration agent or seek legal advice.
Are these lists regularly updated?
Yes, the Queensland occupation lists are regularly updated based on the current demand for specific skilled occupations within the state and changes in the national skills shortage list from the Department of Home Affairs.
What is the purpose of ANZSCO codes?
The Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO) is a system that collects, publishes, and analyses occupation statistics. On the Queensland Occupation Lists, each occupation is listed with its corresponding ANZSCO code which you can use to explore more about the nature of work, skill level, specialisation, and other required information about that occupation.
How can I find the right Occupation List?
To find the appropriate occupation list that suits you, start by understanding the eligibility requirements and suitability of each list. It also depends upon your visa type, residence (onshore or offshore), skillset, and years of experience. If you are unsure, it is always advisable to seek counsel from a registered migration agent.
Is the Skilled Occupation List the only pathway for skilled migration to Queensland?
No, the Skilled Occupation List is one of the many pathways for skilled migration to Queensland. There are other migration options available like Employer-sponsored visa, Regional Provisional visa, Business visas, Sponsored family visas which might not require your occupation to be on the list.
Who develops and maintains the Occupation Lists?
The lists are developed and maintained by Business and Skilled Migration Queensland (BSMQ), a unit of Trade and Investment Queensland that actively promotes Queensland as an attractive destination for business and skilled migrants.
What kind of occupations are listed on Queensland's occupation lists?
The occupation lists cover a wide range of professions - from health, education and ICT to trades, manufacturing and engineering sectors. The lists are exhaustive and include around 600 occupations.
Skilled Worker Living in Queensland FAQ
Please refer to the official site for any updates or changes in guidelines before proceeding with visa applications.The following are frequently asked questions related to Skilled Workers Living in Queensland:
Who is eligible for the Skilled Workers in Regional Queensland program?
The Skilled Workers in Regional Queensland (SWRQ) program is designed for those who have been working for a minimum of three months in a designated regional area of Queensland in their nominated occupation.
Do I need a job offer to apply for the SWRQ program?
Yes, a permanent, full-time job offer from an employer in your field in a designated regional area of Queensland is necessary to apply for the program.
What does a 'permanent' job mean?
A 'permanent' job refers to ongoing, long-term employment with no set end date. It must be for a minimum of 35 hours per week.
What is a 'designated regional area'?
A designated regional area refers to specific parts of Queensland that are listed under the relevant Australian immigration guidelines as being regional.
Do I have to live and work in the same regional area?
Yes, you are required to live and work in the same designated regional area of Queensland after you receive your visa.
What is a Skilled Nominated (Permanent) visa (subclass 190)?
This is a permanent visa option for skilled workers who are nominated by a state or territory. It allows you to live and work in Australia as a permanent resident.
What is a Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491)?
This is a provisional visa for skilled workers who want to live and work in regional Australia, and are nominated by a state or territory or by a family member living in a designated regional area. The visa is valid for five years.
Can I include family members in my visa application?
Yes, you can include certain family members in your visa application. The specific family members who can be included vary depending on the visa subclass.
How long does it take to process a visa application?
The processing times vary depending on the applied visa subclass, the complexity of the application, and the caseload of the processing office.
Can I apply for the SWRQ if I have already submitted an Expression of Interest (EOI) to another state or territory?
No. To apply for the SWRQ, you are required to submit a new EOI and indicate Queensland as your preferred state.
Skilled Worker Living Offshore FAQ
The Queensland Government website provides comprehensive information about the visa options for skilled workers living offshore. In this FAQ section, we will outline important details about the application process, eligibility criteria, and other related topics.
What are skilled visas?
Skilled visas are for skilled workers who are not Australian residents and want to live and work in Australia. They are designed to address skill shortages and enhance the economy.
Who is eligible for a skilled visa?
To qualify for a skilled visa, you must be a skilled worker living offshore with an occupation that fits within the relevant Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations. A points-tested stream is also available for workers who are not sponsored.
How can I apply for a skilled visa?
To apply for a skilled visa, you must submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) via the Department of Home Affairs' SkillSelect. If invited to apply, you submit a full application to the Department of Home Affairs.
What is the role of the Queensland government in the skilled visa process?
The Queensland government can nominate you for a skilled visa if your occupation is on the Queensland Skilled Occupations List and you meet other eligibility criteria. However, the final decision on visa grants is made by the Department of Home Affairs.
What is a nomination from a state or territory government?
A nomination from a state or territory government can help you meet the requirements of certain visas. However, it does not guarantee a visa grant - the final decision is made by the Department of Home Affairs.
What does the Queensland Skilled Occupations List represent?
The Queensland Skilled Occupations List identifies occupations that have a high demand in Queensland. Only workers in these occupations could be nominated by the Queensland government for a skilled visa.
What is the points-tested stream?
The points-tested stream is for workers who are not sponsored by an employer or family member or nominated by a state or territory government. Applicants are assessed based on points for skills, employment history, and English language ability.
What happens after I submit an EOI?
After you submit an EOI, you will enter into a pool of prospective visa applicants. The Australian government will invite you to submit a full application if you are one of the highest ranked candidates in your chosen visa category.
What does being invited to apply mean?
Being invited to apply means that you have passed the EOI stage and are now invited to submit a full application to the Department of Home Affairs. This will include more detailed information and any necessary fees.
Can I include my family in my skilled visa application?
Yes, you can include certain family members in your application. They must meet certain requirements, and might need to pass health, character, and security checks.
For more detailed and personalized advice, it is recommended to consult with a registered migration agent or the Department of Home Affairs.
Skilled Visa Options for Graduates of a Queensland University FAQ
What is a Skilled Visa for Graduates of a Queensland University?
The Skilled Visa for Graduates of a Queensland University, also termed as Subclass 190 or Subclass 491, is specifically tailored for graduates who have completed their studies in Queensland. This visa is a point-based system that enables these graduates to live, study and work in Australia permanently. It is an excellent pathway for international students who wish to gain valuable work experience and engage in a professional career in Queensland.
Who is eligible to apply for this visa?
To be eligible to apply for this visa, the applicant must be a graduate who has completed their studies at a recognised Queensland-based institution. They should hold an eligible qualification and have a valid occupation in line with the Queensland Skilled Occupation Lists (QSOL). This visa requires a skills assessment and the applicant must also meet the standard visa criteria established by the Department of Home Affairs.
Do I need a job offer to apply for this visa?
No, it is not imperative to have a job offer to apply for this visa. However, some occupations may require a job offer owing to the limited number of places available.
How can one apply for this visa?
The process of applying for this visa is straightforward. First, you need to submit an Expression of Interest via SkillSelect. Upon receiving an invitation, you are required to lodge an application with the Department of Home Affairs and apply separately to Business and Skilled Migration Queensland (BSMQ) for a nomination.
What benefits does this visa offer?
The Skilled Visa for Graduates of a Queensland University offers a range of benefits. It not only allows the holder to live, study and work in Australia permanently, but also includes benefits like accessing Medicare (Australia's national health scheme), sponsoring eligible family members to join them in Australia, and the ability to apply for Australian citizenship, subject to eligibility.
Can I apply for this visa if I have completed my studies at a university in another Australian state?
No. This specific visa type is only available for international students who have completed their studies in Queensland. If you have graduated from a university in another Australian state or territory, you would need to explore other visa options that may be available to you.
How long does the visa process take?
The processing time for the Skilled Visa for Graduates of a Queensland University can vary. It largely depends on the individual circumstances of the applicant, the total number of applications received, and the time it takes to verify the information that has been provided in the application.
Can I include my family members in the application?
Yes, you can include certain family members in your application, provided they meet the eligibility requirements. This includes your partner, and your or your partner's dependent children.
If my occupation is not in the QSOL, can I still apply for this visa?
If your occupation is not on the QSOL, unfortunately, you might not be qualified to apply under this visa subclass.
Can I apply for this visa while I am outside Australia?
Yes, applicants can apply for this visa from outside Australia. However, it is important to note that you must abide by the application process and provide proof of your Queensland qualification and skilled occupation.
491 Small Business Owners (SBO) pathway FAQ
FAQs on Small Business Owners Operating in Regional Queensland
What is the Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491)?
Subclass 491 is a skilled work visa issued by the Australian government, allowing individuals to migrate to regional Queensland and operate a small business. The visa holders are required to live, work, and operate the business in regional Queensland for a minimum of 3 years before applying for a permanent visa.
How do I qualify for this visa?
To qualify, you need to have a significant ownership in a small business in regional Queensland (at least 50% ownership). You must have been actively involved in the daily management and operation of the business for at least 6 months prior to the application for nomination.
What is the Business and Skilled Migration Queensland (BSMQ)?
BMSQ is the state nominating body for the Queensland government, initiating migration to the state. BSMQ assists in migration to regional Queensland specifically through this visa program as it contributes to local economies and regional growth.
Is there an age limit to apply for this visa?
Yes, you must be under 55 years of age to apply.
What is the definition of 'regional area'?
Regional areas are defined by specific postcodes. The entirety of Queensland, excluding the greater Brisbane area and the Gold Coast, counts as a regional area for the purposes of this visa.
Can family members be included in the visa?
Yes, spouses and dependent children can also be included in the visa application. They must meet health and character requirements, and secondary applicants over 18 must also demonstrate functional English proficiency.
If my business is located in Brisbane or Gold Coast can I apply for subclass 491 visa?
No, the subclass 491 Small Business Owners pathway is intended for businesses located in regional Queensland only, which excludes greater Brisbane and Gold Coast regions.
How long should I have run the business for before applying?
You should have operated the business for at least 6 months before applying for nomination under this pathway.
Which businesses are considered ineligible for this visa program?
Businesses engaged in property development, rental/leasing, or involved in passive or speculative investment are ineligible for this visa program.
How do I prove my active involvement in the business?
You can provide evidence documents such as business activity reports, commercial lease agreement, and financial reports among others. For selecting the right document, please refer to the application form for precise information.
Can I apply for a permanent visa later?
Yes, you can apply for a permanent visa after holding the '491' visa and complying with all its conditions for a minimum of 3 years.
Do I need a job offer to apply for this visa?
No, a job offer isn't necessary. You only need to own and actively operate a small business in regional Queensland to apply.
Do I need to maintain my skills during my visa period?
Yes, maintaining your skills through continual employment in your nominated occupation or a closely related occupation is essential during your visa period.
Can I apply for other visa sub-classes while holding a Subclass 491 visa?
No, the 491 visa holders are generally restricted from applying for most other skilled and family visa sub-classes until they have completed the required 3-year period in regional Queensland.
What happens if my business fails?
If your business encounters difficulty, you should seek advice from BSMQ as soon as possible. Depending on the circumstances, they may guide you on how you can meet your visa conditions or suggest alternative pathways.
NOTE: Information accurate as per the provided website link. Please refer to the official site for any updates or changes in guidelines before proceeding with visa applications.