Author: Pradeep Brar – Director of Ten Heads Immigration & Registered Migration Agent (MARN: 1575911)
Visa Guide for Professionals/Business Owners
For professionals and business owners considering migration to Australia, this comprehensive guide highlights various visa options, their quotas, and essential information to help you make an informed decision.
Learn about the different pathways such as the Global Talent Visa (SC 858) and how to navigate the application process.
Visa Name | Quota for FY 24-25 | Visa Type | Eligibility Criteria | Application Process |
4,000 | Permanent Residency | For individuals with high achievements and prominence in one of 10 future-focused sectors. Current and expected earnings should be more than the high-income threshold ($167,500 AUD+). | Submit Expression of Interest (EOI), receive an invitation, lodge visa application. | |
300 | Permanent Residency | International recognition in your field and sustained record of achievements in the field in a profession, sport, the arts, or academia/research. | Apply directly for the visa. | |
SC 189: 16,900, SC 190: 33,000, SC 491: 33,000 | Permanent Residency (189, 190) Temporary Residency (491) | Must be under 45 years old. Points-based competitive visas, your occupation should be in a relevant list. | Submit EOI after receiving a positive skill assessment. Receive an invitation and submit visa application | |
44,000 | Permanent Residency (186) Temporary Residency (482, 494) | Nominated by an Australian employer for a job in Australia. Occupation must be on the nominated list. | Employer nominates position though a nomination application, then submit visa application. | |
1,000 | PR | Closed for new applications after 30 Jun 24. Business owners and investors can apply for other visa programs if they meet the eligibility criteria. | N/A | |
Visitor Visa and other temporary work visas | N/A | Temporary visa | Visitor visas – for tourism, family visits, business meetings, and short-term stays in Australia. Temporary work visas (SC 407, SC 403 etc) – Depending on the requirement and eligibility – there are temporary work visas that could allow you to work in Australia Working Holiday – Citizens of select countries can apply for Working Holiday or Work and Holiday visas. | Process depends on the visa. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What are the specific sectors recognized under the Global Talent
Visa? The Global Talent Visa targets sectors including Resources,
Agri-food and AgTech, Energy, Health Industries, Defence, Advanced
Manufacturing and Space, Circular Economy, Digitech, Infrastructure and
Tourism, and Financial Services and FinTech.
- How can I prove my international recognition and achievements? To
prove international recognition, you can provide evidence such as awards,
patents, publications, and endorsements from recognized authorities in
your field. Additionally, you will need a nominator who is an Australian
citizen or organization with a national reputation in your field.
- What is the income threshold, and how do I demonstrate that I meet
it? The income threshold for the Global Talent Visa is currently set
at AUD 167,500. You can demonstrate this by providing employment
contracts, pay slips, or tax returns that show your earnings meet or
exceed this amount.
- What constitutes exceptional and outstanding achievements for this visa? Exceptional and outstanding achievements can include significant contributions to your field recognized internationally, such as major awards, published works, patents, or exceptional performance in sports or the arts.
- How do I provide evidence of my international recognition? Evidence can include endorsements from recognized authorities, publications, media coverage, awards, and records of your contributions to the field that are acknowledged internationally.
- What are the main benefits of the Distinguished Talent Visa? The main benefits include permanent residency in Australia, the ability to work and study in Australia, access to Medicare, the opportunity to sponsor family members, and the possibility to apply for Australian citizenship while meeting a easier residency requirement.
- What occupations are listed on the skilled occupation list? The skilled occupation list includes professions in fields such as healthcare, engineering, IT, education, and trades.
- How does the points-based system work for skilled visas? Points are awarded based on factors such as age, English language proficiency, work experience, education, and other criteria. Applicants need to meet a minimum points threshold to be eligible for these visas. Generally, the invitations are extended to applicant who have the high points.
- What are the age and language proficiency requirements? Generally, applicants must be under 45 years of age and demonstrate competent English language proficiency, through nominated tests such as IELTS, PTE Academic or TOEFL.
- Which occupations are eligible for employer-sponsored visas? Eligible occupations for employer-sponsored visas are listed on the relevant skilled occupation lists, which include a variety of professions across different industries.
- What are the steps for an employer to nominate a position? The employer must demonstrate a genuine need for the position, meet salary requirements, and show efforts to hire locally before nominating an overseas worker. They need to lodge a nomination application with the Department of Home Affairs.
- How can I demonstrate my skills and qualifications for the nominated position? You can provide documentation such as academic qualifications, professional registrations, work experience, and skills assessments from recognized authorities.
- What are the eligibility criteria for a Visitor Visa? Eligibility criteria include having a valid reason for visiting, sufficient funds for the duration of the stay, and a genuine intent to return to your home country. You must also meet health and character requirements.
- How long can I stay in Australia on a Visitor Visa? Visitor Visas typically allow stays of up to 3, 6, 12 months or longer, depending on the visa granted.
- What documents do I need to apply for a Visitor Visa? Required documents generally include a valid passport, proof of sufficient funds, a return ticket, and any documents supporting the purpose of the visit, such as an invitation letter if visiting family or friends.
For more detailed and specific information, it is recommended to consult with a Registered Migration Agent.
Below are other useful links:
- Australian Government Department of Home Affairs
- MARA
- Visa Finder
- Study in Australia
- Live in Melbourne
Contact Us for Personalized Consultation
Ten Heads assists with all stages of all visa processes and provides personalized advice and assistance with your migration journey.
Please contact us at:
- Phone: +61 452 577 272
- Email: contact@tenheadsimmigration.com
- Office Address: Brisbane Technology Park, 3 Clunies Ross Court, Eight Mile Plains 4113 QLD Australia
Our team of experienced migration agents is here to help you navigate the complexities of the Australian migration process and achieve your goals. For more information about our services, feel free to navigate to our About Us or Visa Services Page.