Lodging an Expression of Interest (EOI) is an integral part of the skilled visa process.
What is an Expression of Interest?
When applying for a skilled visa – such as subclass 189, 190 or 491 – an applicant needs to successfully submit an Expression of Interest (EOI). The EOI is an online application which includes personal details, skills assessment and English test results.
EOI’s are lodged online via SkillSelect and generate a point score. Points are awarded for the applicant’s age, highest qualification, work experience and more. You can calculate your points score using Visa Go Australia’s online calculator.
It is crucial an applicant completes an EOI correctly, as over-claiming points can result in a visa refusal. If you require migration advice you should consider booking a consultation with a Migration Agent.
EOI invitation rounds are changing
When lodging an EOI for a Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) or Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491), applicants are subject to regular invitation rounds. Invitations are issued to those with the highest point score. Where applicants have the same points, the EOI submitted earliest will take precedence.
Invitation rounds generally take place once a month, however this is changing. The Department will run quarterly invitation rounds for the remainder of 2020-21 the program year. The last invitation round was run in January 2021. The results are yet to be published on the Department website.
EOI points score
Each month, invitation rounds are published on SkillSelect. The results are a good indication of how many points are required to secure an invitation, however COVID has temporarily skewed this.
The most recent results show that 65 points is enough to secure an invitation for a 189 visa, which many people will know has not been the case in years! In comparison, some applicants needed a minimum of 100 points last year.
The likelihood is that those securing invitations on 65 points will have occupations on the Priority Migration Skilled Occupation List (PMSOL). This list was created to support Australia’s economic recovery from COVID-19, and currently contains just 18 occupations. As expected, most roles are in healthcare.
Invitations are not guaranteed and an EOI will expire after 2 years.
How many points do I need for a skilled visa?
Applicants can lodge an EOI on 65 points, however in most cases meeting the minimum threshold is not enough to secure a visa invitation. It has been this way for years, as more people apply than there are spaces available, thus making it competitive.
At Visa Go Australia we believe an applicant requires at least 90 points to have a chance of securing a 189 visa. We do not anticipate this lessening any time soon.
If an applicant’s occupation is on the PMSOL, then there may be an opportunity to secure a visa invitation on 65 points. At Visa Go Australia we are yet to see this.
How can I increase my points?
There are two primary ways to increase your points score; The English Test and State Sponsorship (visa subclasses 190 and 491). State Sponsored visa categories (subclass 190 and 491) are not subject to invitation rounds. States choose applicants according to their skill shortages and own criteria. If State Sponsorship is approved, an applicant is invited to lodge a skilled visa soon after.
To secure State Sponsorship an applicant must check their occupation is on the state’s list. Additionally, states set additional criteria such as financial capacity and providing employability evidence. The minimum points required to apply is 65, however the more points the better.
Currently State Sponsorship options are limited, with many temporarily closed to offshore applicants. However, we expect states to open up again in the next financial year (July 2021) as skills shortages in Australia grow. Tasmania recently opened to offshore applicants.
At Visa Go Australia we are advising clients on how they can be State Sponsorship ready. It is still possible to move forward with a skilled visa application.
To conclude
As Australia rebuilds its economy post-Covid, there are increasing reports of skill shortages and an outcry for overseas workers to fill these gaps. With state nomination being offered to a select number of occupations, we anticipate this to increase during 2021.
You can use Visa Go Australia’s free points calculator to determine your skilled points score. Alternatively, you can seek advice from our licensed Migration Agent Darren Chatt MARN:0211214 by booking a consultation.
Australian Visa Fees Increase – 1 July 2021
AustraliaAustralian Visa Fees Increase
On 1 July 2021, Australian visa application charges (VACs) will marginally increase. The VAC is paid on lodgement of application, and is subject to card surcharges.
New Visa Fees
Australian Visa Fees Increase on 1 July 2021. Details of new fees are listed below:
For further details on Australian visa fees and charges please refer to the Department website.
If you would like a detailed quote, please complete an online assessment. Our migration agent will review your details and provide a breakdown of all costs involved.
Australian State Sponsorship Invitations
Australia, News, Skilled VisaAustralian State Sponsorship Invitations
Some positive news for our skilled visa clients! Last week, nine Visa Go Australia clients received invitations from the South Australian and Tasmanian Government. These clients can now proceed with lodgement of their skilled visa applications.
Securing Australian state sponsorship has become increasingly difficult during the COVID pandemic, especially for offshore applicants. However as the Australian economy recovers sponsorship opportunities are slowly becoming more available.
States offering Sponsorship
Eight of the invitations were from South Australia. This included five subclass 190 invites for occupations 323211 Fitter (General) and 323214 Metal Machinist (First Class). An additional three subclass 491 invites were issued to occupations 331212 Carpenter and 333212 Solid Plasterer. All invitations were for offshore clients.
The South Australian Government has limited details on their website about sponsorship being offered.
“Please be advised that offshore applicants with an existing EOI in SkillSelect may be invited to directly apply for state nomination in the current program year. These applicants have already been identified from a defined range of critical sectors.
Further information regarding our offshore program, including occupations available, will be provided in conjunction with our 2021-2022 program opening in July 2021.”
Our final invitation was a skilled client who secured a local Tasmanian job offer in her nominated occupation of Chef. Her state sponsorship was approved in 3 weeks, and she received an invitation to lodge her skilled visa last week. Overseas applicants with a Tasmanian job offer can apply for state nomination.
Professional advice on State Sponsorship
Our migration agent Darren Chatt MARN:0211214 explains, “For the nine clients who were invited, it confirms that the advice we gave to forge ahead with their skills assessment, English exam and lodgement of the Expression of Interest (EOI) was in fact beneficial. Although we cannot guarantee you will receive a skilled visa in these uncertain times, lodging your EOI places you on the path and ahead of many others once States do re-commence their skills drives and sponsorship offers.”
At Visa Go Australia we work with our clients to provide them with the best opportunity of securing a skilled visa. Using our service means your application is regularly reviewed and updated as required. With a variety of clients and an experienced migration agent, we offer exceptional service and insight into immigration.
Given how difficult it is right now to secure an offer of sponsorship from a State, you can respect there is great demand for an invite. Employing a reputable migration agent can be the difference of securing a skilled visa or not. Enquire about our services today by completing our free visa assessment.
In accepting State Sponsorship, you are committing to live and work in that State for a minimum of 2 years, so please ensure you make the choice that is right for you and your family.
Book a visa consultation today.
VETASSESS Skills Assessment – Revised Criteria for Professionals
Australia, Skilled VisaVETASSESS skills assessment
Obtaining a positive skills assessment is the first key stage of applying for a skilled visa. All primary applicants must complete a skills assessment to ensure their qualifications and/or work experience match Australian workplace requirements.
VETASSESS is Australia’s largest skills assessment provider. Authorised by the Australian Government, VETASSESS assess 28 trade occupations and over 360 professional occupations spanning many industries.
Visa Go Australia work closely with VETASSESS to provide our clients with an exceptional skilled visa service.
See if you qualify for a skilled visa.
Revised Criteria for Professional Occupations
VETASSESS are updating their assessment criteria for the following four professional occupations:
Skill assessing bodies such as VETASSESS sporadically make changes to the assessment criteria. This ensures it stays relevant to Australian industry markets. Detailed information about the latest changes are available here.
This new criteria will be implemented from 21 June 2021.
If you have any questions about these criteria changes you can contact migrate@vetassess.com.au.
If you need professional visa advice you can complete our free online assessment. For a detailed analysis of your visa options we recommend booking a consultation with our licensed migration agent.
See our latest Australian job postings here.
Australia needs skilled migrants
Australia, Skilled VisaThe COVID pandemic brought Australia’s migration program to a halt, with strict travel bans and temporary visa holders advised to return home.
As the country rebuilds its economy, Australian businesses are reporting a shortage of skilled workers. Politicians recognise that Australia needs skilled migrants to support economic growth, whilst protecting jobs for current Australian residents.
A shortage of skilled migrants
During the last year of COVID lockdowns, population growth in Australia reduced for the first time since WW1. With fewer skilled migrants entering the country, businesses are beginning to struggle.
Some of Australia’s employment sectors are suffering with a shortage of workers. Politicians are asking the Government to streamline the skilled migration process, advising that skilled migrants are needed to fill job vacancies and support business growth.
MP Julian Leeser reported “…that skilled migrants create Australian jobs. With over 500,000 temporary visa holders leaving Australia during the COVID pandemic, we need to bring back skilled migration, to fill essential gaps and to help create more jobs for Australians.” Read the full media release here.
Many employment sectors need skilled migrants
In a recent ABC interview, MP Julian Leeser identified massive skill shortages in:
It is impossible to train enough Australians to fill these jobs without a substantial time lag, hence the need for skilled migrants.
Mr Leeser recommended making it easier for businesses to attract overseas skilled workers. This includes finding ways to simplify the skilled migration process. He concluded that businesses cannot grow and employ Australians without skilled migration.
Skilled migrants are a benefit to Australia
Skilled migrants bring global expertise and transferable skills to Australia. They are vital for continued business expansion, creating more jobs for Australians and supporting economic growth.
Skilled migration will play a vital role in Australia’s post-covid economic recovery. With the new migration year approaching (1 July), we are hopeful that more pathways will open to overseas skilled workers.
See if you qualify for a skilled visa
Book a consultation with a licensed Migration Agent
An update from our Migration Agent
Australia, Covid-19 (Coronavirus)Last year our migration agent Darren Chatt travelled to Australia for family and work commitments. As an Australian citizen he can enter the country during the strict COVID travel restrictions.
Below, he explains what Australian life is like during the COVID pandemic. Darren also reveals he is connecting with local employers to provide our clients with exciting job opportunities.
Flight cancellations and hotel quarantine
“After expecting to be in Perth at the start of September, two cancelled flights saw me finally arrive late into November. I experienced 2 weeks in lockdown at a hotel in Perth before being allowed to travel south to my family home near Busselton.
It was a very challenging time and gave me first hand experience of the difficulties faced by fellow citizens and permanent residents trying to return to Australia.
I am due to fly back to Scotland in April, but with no flights available and further international border closures, this is unlikely to happen. Given the current situation, I will be focusing on onshore visa applications and employment opportunities, of which there are many. I have set up an Australian office in Busselton, Western Australia and am working closely with companies looking to sponsor skilled applicants to WA.”
Job opportunities in Australia
“A local company (WA) is looking to sponsor six qualified Painters and Decorators, and the two applications lodged just 6 weeks ago are already at the approval stage.
A Perth company that is set up to sponsor Welders, Metal Fabricators and Metal Machinists is desperately looking for employees. Last year he sponsored over 40 tradesmen under the 482 visa category.
With the State and Australian Government offering A$45,000 to anyone who buys a house and starts building before Feb 2021, the housing industry is booming. There is a huge shortage of Electricians, Carpenters, Tilers, etc. and there are just not enough of these skilled tradesmen to cope with the demand.”
Read more about Australia’s economic response to COVID.
Increasing visa options for our clients
“This is good news for our clients, but we need the Australian Government to start processing the employee sponsored visas again, and subsequently the states to start sponsoring overseas applicants. I am hoping this will happening on the 1st July when the new allocation of visas is declared by the Australian Government.
It is actually a good time for me to be in Australia, and with Kimberley managing the Edinburgh office and Sue the London office, everything is running very smoothly. Recently I met up with some of our previous clients and enjoyed hearing of their experiences in settling into their new lives in Australia. It has been a very positive couple of months and I’m looking forward to securing a wide range of job opportunities for our clients. We just need the Australian government to start opening the borders!”
If you require migration advice you can book a consultation with Darren or complete our free online assessment.
Entering Australia during COVID
Australia, Covid-19 (Coronavirus)Australia continues to have strict border measures, flight caps and quarantine requirements in place. Below, we outline details of entering Australia during COVID.
Who can enter Australia?
Australian citizens, permanent residents and select exempt categories can currently enter Australia. On arrival, passengers must complete 2 weeks quarantine in a designated hotel. The costs must be covered by the passenger. A guide to quarantining can be found on the Department website.
What do I need to do before flying?
Entering Australia during COVID requires preparation. All passengers must complete the following:
Where can I find travel updates?
The Department of Home Affairs website will be updated as circumstances change.
Details on refunds and waivers of visa application charges can be found here: https://covid19.homeaffairs.gov.au/refunds-and-waivers-visa-application-charges
Coronavirus (COVID-19) advice for international travelers is accessed here: https://www.health.gov.au/news/health-alerts/novel-coronavirus-2019-ncov-health-alert/coronavirus-covid-19-restrictions/coronavirus-covid-19-advice-for-international-travellers
If you require visa advice you can book a consultation with our Migration Agent. Safe travels!
Flights into Australia are capped
John Mason International Welcomes New Owner
Australia, NewsOne of the UK’s largest independent removal, storage and shipping companies, with bases in Liverpool and London has sold, marking the first time in it’s 137 year history that it hasn’t been owned by the Mason family.
There’s a new man at the helm of John Mason International, one of the UK’s largest independent removal, storage and shipping companies.
Simon Hood, the company’s Sales and Marketing Director is the new owner of the highly-regarded family firm, which was established in 1884.
A multi-award-winning marketing expert with 12 years’ experience in the international shipping and global mobility sector, Simon is keen to maintain the family values that have helped make the company so successful.
With its head office in Liverpool and a regional office on the outskirts of London in Hemel Hempstead, John Mason International provides both consumer and trade groupage and full container load shipping services to destinations across the world. In addition to its storage and vehicle storage solutions, the firm also specialises in moving companies around the world with UK import services.
No immediate major changes are planned under the new ownership, but Simon is focusing on the company’s high standard of service delivery for customers, both during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.
This commitment not only safeguards the jobs at John Mason International, but it will also help to sustain and develop the global network of partners, which the firm works with to help drive the international moving industry.
John Mason International has earned its reputation as an efficient and reliable international removals service by helping thousands of UK customers each year to move their families and their household goods to new locations around the world.
Simon said: “I am really honoured to be the new owner of John Mason International. This is the first time it has ever been out of the Mason family’s control and I am determined to build on its reputable name and values to take the company forward in the future.
“Taking over in the middle of a pandemic is challenging, but the business continues to remain fully operational. The safety of our customers and employees is my priority and we have a number of safety measures in place to ensure we are ‘COVID Secure’ at all times.
“Having worked with the team before I took over ownership, I know how focused everybody is on providing first-class removal, shipping and storage solutions.
“The current team will remain with John Mason International and together we will continue to ride out the COVID-19 pandemic with a professional and friendly service and come out stronger on the other side.”
Former Owner of John Mason International, Caroline Mason commented“I can’t think of a safer pair of hands to take the business forward, especially in the current climate. Although it’s the first time that the owner has not been part of the Mason family, Simon knows the requirements of the business better than anyone.
“Importantly, his experience and expertise in marketing mean that he puts the needs of the customer at the forefront of all decisions. So, I have every confidence that, with Simon in charge, the future of the company is bright.”
Find out more at www.johnmason.com
New South Wales opens 491 nominations
NewsAs we enter the second half of the migration year, New South Wales opens their regional state nomination program.
Learn more about the 491 visa here.
New South Wales opens 491 nominations
On 15 Feb 2021, New South Wales regional sponsorship opened. Applicants who meet the specified criteria can apply to NSW for 491 Regional state sponsorship.
The basic nomination criterion is the main applicant must nominate an occupation on the NSW 491 List.
And apply under one of the following streams:
Stream 1: Living and working in regional NSW
Stream 2: Completed study in regional NSW
Stream 3: Living and working outside of regional NSW and
a) formal job offer in regional NSW or;
b) at least five years skilled employment experience (offshore applicants) or;
c) close family ties in regional NSW
If you meet the criteria…
NSW is split into a total of 13 regions, and we have looked over all 13 websites to see which are accepting nominations. Currently only a few regions are open, and those that are will not accept offshore applicants.
The only exception is Far South Coast which is open to Stream 3a (job offer).
For full details of NSW 491 nomination criteria you can visit their website.
Our advice to skilled applicants
We recommend reaching out to employers and recruiters in regional NSW and Tasmania. These states are opening to offshore applicants with job offers. A couple of contacts we have include:
Use recruitment agents, search for jobs online and speak with Australian employers.
We remind you that because of COVID-19 and significant reductions in Australia’s Migration Program Planning Levels 2020/21, the chances of being nominated are currently low. However, the opening of these states is a step in the right direction. We continue to work with our clients to give them the strongest opportunity of securing a skilled visa.
If you require professional migration advice, you can complete our free assessment and arrange a consultation today.
Skilled Migration – What is an Expression of Interest?
NewsLodging an Expression of Interest (EOI) is an integral part of the skilled visa process.
What is an Expression of Interest?
When applying for a skilled visa – such as subclass 189, 190 or 491 – an applicant needs to successfully submit an Expression of Interest (EOI). The EOI is an online application which includes personal details, skills assessment and English test results.
EOI’s are lodged online via SkillSelect and generate a point score. Points are awarded for the applicant’s age, highest qualification, work experience and more. You can calculate your points score using Visa Go Australia’s online calculator.
It is crucial an applicant completes an EOI correctly, as over-claiming points can result in a visa refusal. If you require migration advice you should consider booking a consultation with a Migration Agent.
EOI invitation rounds are changing
When lodging an EOI for a Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) or Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491), applicants are subject to regular invitation rounds. Invitations are issued to those with the highest point score. Where applicants have the same points, the EOI submitted earliest will take precedence.
Invitation rounds generally take place once a month, however this is changing. The Department will run quarterly invitation rounds for the remainder of 2020-21 the program year. The last invitation round was run in January 2021. The results are yet to be published on the Department website.
EOI points score
Each month, invitation rounds are published on SkillSelect. The results are a good indication of how many points are required to secure an invitation, however COVID has temporarily skewed this.
The most recent results show that 65 points is enough to secure an invitation for a 189 visa, which many people will know has not been the case in years! In comparison, some applicants needed a minimum of 100 points last year.
The likelihood is that those securing invitations on 65 points will have occupations on the Priority Migration Skilled Occupation List (PMSOL). This list was created to support Australia’s economic recovery from COVID-19, and currently contains just 18 occupations. As expected, most roles are in healthcare.
Invitations are not guaranteed and an EOI will expire after 2 years.
How many points do I need for a skilled visa?
Applicants can lodge an EOI on 65 points, however in most cases meeting the minimum threshold is not enough to secure a visa invitation. It has been this way for years, as more people apply than there are spaces available, thus making it competitive.
At Visa Go Australia we believe an applicant requires at least 90 points to have a chance of securing a 189 visa. We do not anticipate this lessening any time soon.
If an applicant’s occupation is on the PMSOL, then there may be an opportunity to secure a visa invitation on 65 points. At Visa Go Australia we are yet to see this.
How can I increase my points?
There are two primary ways to increase your points score; The English Test and State Sponsorship (visa subclasses 190 and 491). State Sponsored visa categories (subclass 190 and 491) are not subject to invitation rounds. States choose applicants according to their skill shortages and own criteria. If State Sponsorship is approved, an applicant is invited to lodge a skilled visa soon after.
To secure State Sponsorship an applicant must check their occupation is on the state’s list. Additionally, states set additional criteria such as financial capacity and providing employability evidence. The minimum points required to apply is 65, however the more points the better.
Currently State Sponsorship options are limited, with many temporarily closed to offshore applicants. However, we expect states to open up again in the next financial year (July 2021) as skills shortages in Australia grow. Tasmania recently opened to offshore applicants.
At Visa Go Australia we are advising clients on how they can be State Sponsorship ready. It is still possible to move forward with a skilled visa application.
To conclude
As Australia rebuilds its economy post-Covid, there are increasing reports of skill shortages and an outcry for overseas workers to fill these gaps. With state nomination being offered to a select number of occupations, we anticipate this to increase during 2021.
You can use Visa Go Australia’s free points calculator to determine your skilled points score. Alternatively, you can seek advice from our licensed Migration Agent Darren Chatt MARN:0211214 by booking a consultation.
Family violence protection for visa holders
NewsThe Australian Government has produced a document about family violence protection for visa holders. You can access this document on our website.
The document details what constitutes as unacceptable behaviour, and how individuals can seek help. You can refer to the Government website for further information: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/family-violence-and-your-visa
The Australian Government has zero tolerance for family and domestic violence against anyone in the Australian community, including permanent and temporary visa holders.
Australia remains committed to protecting its population from family violence, which includes those emigrating to the country. The family visa stream accounts for a large proportion of Australia’s migration program, and 2021 brings changes to the processing of partner visas.
To further combat domestic violence, Australian sponsors will first have to be approved before they can sponsor their partner to emigrate to Australia. There will also be a new English language requirement. You can read more about the changes on our recent news item.