The 2024-25 Victorian Skilled Visa Nomination Program is now officially open, offering skilled professionals both in Victoria and overseas a unique opportunity to secure their future in Australia. This program is specifically designed to attract individuals with the skills and expertise that align with Victoria’s economic needs, particularly in sectors experiencing significant growth and demand. The program is an essential pathway to Australian permanent residency, allowing skilled professionals to contribute to the state’s economy while establishing themselves in one of the most liveable regions of the world.
Understanding the Visa Pathways: Subclass 190 and Subclass 491
Victoria’s Skilled Visa Nomination Program offers two key visa pathways:
- Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190)
The subclass 190 visa is a permanent residence visa that enables skilled professionals to live and work anywhere in Victoria. It is designed for individuals with skills that are in high demand across the state. Once granted, visa holders can enjoy the full benefits of Australian permanent residency, including access to Medicare, education, and social services. This visa also allows you to sponsor eligible relatives for permanent residence. - Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (subclass 491)
The subclass 491 visa is a provisional visa, valid for five years, specifically tailored for those willing to live and work in regional Victoria. This visa provides a pathway to permanent residency after living and working in a designated regional area of Victoria for at least three years. It is an attractive option for those who wish to contribute to the development of regional communities while working towards permanent residency.
Key Steps to Apply for Victorian Skilled Visa Nomination
To be considered for Victorian skilled visa nomination under the 2024-25 program, applicants must follow a two-step process:
- Expression of Interest (EOI) via SkillSelect
The first step is to submit or update your Expression of Interest (EOI) through the Australian Government’s SkillSelect system. This is a crucial step as it allows you to indicate your interest in the Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190) or the Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (subclass 491). The EOI will detail your skills, qualifications, and experience, and will be assessed against the points test criteria. - Registration of Interest (ROI) with Victoria
Once your EOI is submitted, the next step is to submit a Registration of Interest (ROI) with the Victorian Government. This step is necessary to be considered for nomination by Victoria. The ROI allows you to provide additional information to demonstrate why you should be selected for Victorian nomination, including your commitment to living and working in Victoria, either in metropolitan Melbourne or regional areas.
Victoria’s Skilled Visa Allocation for 2024-25
For the 2024-25 program year, the Australian Government has allocated 5,000 skilled visa nomination places to Victoria, divided as follows:
- Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190) – 3,000 places
- Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (subclass 491) – 2,000 places
These allocations reflect Victoria’s ongoing commitment to attracting skilled migrants who can fill critical gaps in the workforce, particularly in industries that are vital to the state’s economic recovery and growth.
Legal Considerations for Skilled Visa Applicants
While the Victorian Skilled Visa Nomination Program offers an attractive pathway to Australian residency, it is important to be aware of certain legalities and obligations associated with these visas:
- Compliance with Visa Conditions
Visa holders must comply with the conditions attached to their visa. For instance, holders of the subclass 491 visa are required to live and work in a designated regional area of Victoria. Non-compliance with visa conditions can result in visa cancellation and loss of eligibility for permanent residency. - Meeting the Points Test Requirements
To be invited to apply for a visa, you must meet the points test requirements. This includes factors such as age, English language proficiency, skilled employment experience, educational qualifications, and other relevant criteria. It is crucial to ensure that all information provided in your EOI and ROI is accurate and up to date. - Adhering to Australian Employment Laws
If you are employed in Australia under a skilled visa, you are protected by Australian employment laws. This includes minimum wage standards, working conditions, and the right to work in a safe environment. Understanding your rights as an employee is essential to ensuring fair treatment in the workplace. - Pathway to Permanent Residency
For subclass 491 visa holders, transitioning to permanent residency requires meeting specific criteria, including living and working in regional Victoria for at least three years and earning a minimum taxable income as stipulated by the Department of Home Affairs. It is important to plan your employment and living arrangements accordingly to meet these requirements.
Secure Your Future with Expert Guidance
The Victorian Skilled Visa Nomination Program presents an excellent opportunity for skilled professionals to advance their careers and secure a future in Australia. However, navigating the complexities of visa applications and understanding the associated legalities can be challenging. At NB Migration Law, our team of experienced migration lawyers is here to guide you through every step of the process, ensuring that your application is strong and meets all legal requirements.
Book a complimentary consultation with our team today and take the first step towards securing your future in Victoria. Whether you are currently in Australia or overseas, we can provide the expert advice and support you need to make your migration journey a success. Contact us now to discuss your eligibility and explore the best visa options for your circumstances.