New changes have been introduced to the point test visa for General Skilled Migration visa.
These changes will be effective from 16 November 2019 and sill be relevant to existing subclass 189,190,489 and new Skilled Work Regional visa 491.
The changes to the point test include:
15 points for applicants who are nominated by a State or Territory government, or who are sponsored by a suitable family member (only for Subclass 489 visa or the new Subclass 491 visa) – Currently 10 points.
10 points for applicants with a skilled spouse or de facto partner (must be under 45 with Competent English, suitable skills assessment and with an occupation on the same skilled occupation list). – Currently 5 points.
10 points for applicants who do not have a spouse or de facto partner or who have a spouse or de facto partner who is an Australian citizen or a Permanent resident – New
10 points for Specialist Educational qualifications – Currently 5 points.
Invitations will be ranked in the below order:
First: applicants with a skilled de facto partner or spouse
Equal First: applicants without a de facto partner or spouse
Second: applicants with a de facto partner or spouse or who demonstrates Competent English but who does not have the skills to obtain skilled partner points.
Third: Applicants with a de facto partner or spouse who is ineligible for either competent English or Skilled partner points.
The above ranking will apply when all points except partner qualifications are equal.
If you are not sure how these new changes affect you and you are worried about your future in Australia, get in touch with Get Your Visa on 08-9388-9193 and we will assess your circumstances, qualifications and experience to check to see if you are still on the right path and give you peace of mind.
