Queensland State Sponsorship Closure

Business & Skilled Migration Queensland (BSMQ) have announced temporary closure of their state sponsorship programme due to a backlog of applications. BSMQ will no longer be issuing new invitations for applicants to apply for state sponsorship. As a result skilled and business applicants will no longer be able to apply for Queensland state sponsorship. BSMQ have not stated when they will re-open applications.

Barriers to State Sponsorship

As a result of Immigration reducing the number of invitations available, the points required for securing an invitation to apply (ITA) for a skilled visa has fluctuated to 70 and beyond. Previously the points required for an ITA were 60, and while you can still successfully lodge an EOI on 60 points it is highly unlikely you will receive an invitation at this given time. This in turn has seen people waiting substantially longer to receive an invitation to apply for a 189 Skilled Independent Visa, with many people opting for alternative solutions such as State Sponsorship. Consequently it’s becoming more difficult to secure state sponsorship.

The ACT skilled migration programme has been closed since 23 August 201 to overseas applicants and no date has been released as to when (and if) it will re-open. While other states remain open, there are strict criteria in place which create barriers for potential migrants. Common criteria include meeting financial requirements or evidencing employability in the main applicant’s profession. Additionally, many states are increasing their processing times for state sponsorship applications. The Northern Territory are currently taking 6-8 months to make a decision on submitted applications.

Identifying the best Skilled Visa pathway for you

As skilled migration becomes more difficult it can be hugely beneficial to seek professional advice from an experienced Migration Agent. Darren at Visa Go has over 15 years experience in the industry and has helped hundreds of families successfully move to Australia. You can complete a free online visa assessment here: https://visa-go.visasystems.com/australia/assessment/skilled/default.aspx