What is the GSM Visa Program?
The General Skilled Migration (GSM) visa is a points-tested scheme designed for highly skilled workers with occupations in demand in Australia. If you meet the criteria, such as being on the skilled occupation list, having a positive skills assessment and achieving the required points score, you may be eligible for permanent residency through subclasses like 189, 190 or 491. Click Consulting Group’s MARA-registered migration agents guide you through each step of the process.
Types of General Skilled Migration Visas
1. Subclass 189 – Skilled Independent Visa
- For skilled workers not sponsored by an employer, family member, or state/territory.
- Permanent residency visa.
- Points-tested; no need for a job offer or nomination.
- Can live and work anywhere in Australia.
2. Subclass 190 – Skilled Nominated Visa
- For skilled workers nominated by an Australian state or territory.
- Permanent residency visa.
- Must commit to living in the nominated state for at least two years.
3. Subclass 491 – Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa
- For skilled workers nominated by a state/territory or sponsored by an eligible relative in a regional area.
- Temporary visa (5 years), but provides a pathway to permanent residency through the Subclass 191 after 3 years of living and working in regional Australia.
- Requires living and working in designated regional areas.
How the General Skilled Migration Visa Application Process Works
Applying for a GSM Visa in Australia involves several key steps. The process is designed to ensure that only qualified professionals with in-demand skills are invited to apply for permanent residency.
Application Process Overview:
- Check your occupation
Confirm that your profession is listed on Australia’s Skilled Occupation List (SOL). - Complete a skills assessment
Have your skills formally assessed by the authorised assessing body for your occupation. - Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)
Lodge your EOI through SkillSelect and enter the points-tested pool of applicants. - Receive an invitation to apply
If your score is competitive, you’ll receive an invitation for a GSM visa subclass (189, 190 or 491). - Lodge your visa application
Submit supporting documents, health and character checks, and evidence of eligibility. - Visa outcome
Once granted, you can begin living, working and building your future in Australia.
With Click Consulting Group, you receive step-by-step guidance, documentation support, and a strategy to maximise your eligibility and improve your invitation chances.
How the GSM Points Test Works
The General Skilled Migration Visa operates under a structured points-based test used by the Australian Government to rank eligible applicants. The higher your score, the more likely you are to receive an invitation through SkillSelect.
Points are awarded for factors such as:
- Age – Applicants aged 25–32 usually receive the highest points, with decreasing points for older age groups.
- English Language Ability – Higher scores in tests like IELTS or PTE increase your total.
- Skilled Employment Experience – Both overseas and Australian work experience are recognised, with extra weighting for local experience.
- Educational Qualifications – Bachelor’s, Master’s or PhD-level qualifications can significantly boost your score.
- Australian Study Requirement – Completing an eligible study in Australia can add additional points.
- Partner Skills – Eligible spouses or partners can contribute extra points if they meet skill and English criteria.
- State or Territory Nomination – Subclass 190 and 491 applicants may earn bonus points from a state/territory government nomination.
- Regional Study or Specialist Education – Completing a study in a designated regional area or in a specialised field can also improve your score.
A minimum of 65 points is required to submit an Expression of Interest, although higher scores are often needed for highly competitive occupations.
GSM Points Test Breakdown
Below is an overview of how points are typically awarded for the General Skilled Migration (GSM) Visa in Australia.
Use this as a guide to estimate your eligibility before submitting your Expression of Interest (EOI).
| Points Factor | Criteria / Description | Maximum Points |
| Age | 18–24 years (25 pts) 25–32 years (30 pts) 33–39 years (25 pts)40–44 years (15 pts) | 30 |
| English Language Ability | Competent (0 pts) Proficient (10 pts)Superior (20 pts) | 20 |
| Skilled Employment Experience (Outside Australia) | 3–4 years (5 pts)5–7 years (10 pts) 8+ years (15 pts) | 15 |
| Skilled Employment Experience (In Australia) | 1–2 years (5 pts)3–4 years (10 pts)5–7 years (15 pts)8+ years (20 pts) | 20 |
| Educational Qualifications | Diploma/Trade (10 pts) Bachelor’s/Master’s (15 pts)Doctorate (20 pts) | 20 |
| Australian Study Requirement | Completion of a course in Australia (min. 2 academic years) | 5 |
| Specialist Education Qualification | Master’s by research or PhD in a STEM field from an Australian institution | 10 |
| Partner Skills | Partner meets age, skill and English requirements (10 pts) Partner has competent English (5 pts) Single applicants (10 pts) | 10 |
| State/Territory Nomination (Subclass 190) | Nomination by a state or territory government | 5 |
| Regional Nomination (Subclass 491) | Nomination by a regional state/territory or an eligible relative | 15 |
Benefits of a GSM Visa
Sponsor eligible relatives for permanent residence.
Pathway to permanent residency and Australian citizenship.
Freedom to live, work, and study anywhere in Australia (189 and 190).
Access to Medicare (Australia’s public health system).
Why Choose Click Consulting for Your GSM Visa Application?
MARA-registered migration agents with deep experience in GSM visas (189, 190, 491).
Proven track record helping skilled professionals achieve Australian residency.
Expert points-test reviews, state/territory nomination strategy and full application support.
Personalised migration plans built around your skills, goals and timeline.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What is the minimum score required for a GSM visa?
To be eligible for a General Skilled Migration Visa, you must score at least 65 points on the GSM points test. However, competitive occupations often require a higher score to receive an invitation.
Q2. Who is eligible for the General Skilled Migration visa?
You may be eligible if you have an occupation on Australia’s Skilled Occupation List, a positive skills assessment, meet the English proficiency requirement, and score at least 65 points through the points test.
Q3. Is my occupation required to be on the Skilled Occupation List?
Yes. Only applicants whose occupations appear on the relevant Skilled Occupation List (SOL) can apply under the GSM program, as it ensures your skills are in demand in Australia.
Q4. Do I need a skills assessment to apply?
Yes, a skills assessment from the authorised assessing body is mandatory. It confirms that your qualifications and work experience match Australian standards for your nominated occupation.
Q5. What factors can increase my GSM points score?
Higher English test results, additional work experience, postgraduate qualifications, Australian study, regional study, or state nomination can all add extra points and improve your invitation chances.
Q6. How do I submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)?
You must create a profile and submit your Expression of Interest through SkillSelect, the Australian Government’s online portal. Your EOI outlines your points claim and is assessed before invitations are issued.
Q7. What happens after I receive an invitation to apply?
Once invited, you must lodge your visa application within the specified timeframe, submit supporting documents, and complete medical and character checks.
Q8. How long does the GSM visa process take?
Processing times vary by visa subclass and invitation demand. On average, applicants can expect a timeline of 6 to 12 months after receiving an invitation to apply.
Q9. Do I need a job offer to apply for a GSM visa?
No. Unlike employer-sponsored visas, the GSM program is skills and points-based, meaning you do not need a job offer or employer sponsorship to apply.
Q10. Can I apply while I am still outside Australia?
Yes. You can apply from overseas as long as you meet the eligibility and skills assessment requirements. Many successful applicants lodge their GSM visa from outside Australia.
Q11. Can my family be included in my GSM visa application?
Yes, you can include your spouse/partner and dependent children in your application. They will also receive the same visa rights once granted.
