Australian PR Pathways for Management Consultants (General Skilled Migration)

Introduction

In Australia, where skilled professionals are in high demand to support economic growth, management consultants find a thriving market with ample opportunities. Management Consultant is recognised as a priority occupation under Australia’s Skilled Occupation List (MLTSSL), which qualifies it for consideration under all the three visa subclasses:

Australia’s General Skilled Migration Program, which includes:

1. Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189),
2. Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190) and
3. Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (subclass 491 Visa)

This offers management consultants a direct independent route to bring their expertise to the Australian shores.

At Ten Heads Immigration, we understand the complexities of Australia’s immigration processes and the unique challenges faced by professionals. This blog provides an in-depth guide on how management consultants can leverage the subclass 189, 190 and 491 visas to migrate to Australia, with insights into eligibility, requirements, and practical steps to ensure a smooth application.

Australia’s Need for Skilled Management Consultants

Australian companies across sectors—such as finance, healthcare, technology, and manufacturing—are actively seeking professionals who can deliver fresh perspectives and solutions. Management consultants are well-positioned to address these needs, offering a unique combination of analytical skills, strategic insight, and industry-specific knowledge. Their role often includes helping companies optimise processes, enhance profitability, and foster innovation.

Eligibility Requirements for General Skilled Migration Program for Management Consultants

All three visas under the GSM require applicants to meet laid down eligibility criteria to demonstrate their qualifications and professional capabilities.

Below, we outline the key requirements for management consultants aiming to apply through either of these skilled migration pathways.

Skills Assessment by VETASSESS

For a successful application, management consultants must undergo a skills assessment by VETASSESS, (the relevant authority for this occupation). The assessment process verifies that applicants possess the qualifications and professional experience necessary for a career in management consulting in Australia. To achieve a positive skills assessment, applicants typically need:

• A Bachelor’s degree or higher qualification in a related field.
• A minimum number of years of relevant experience, minimum three years work experience as a management consultant.

Understanding and preparing for the VETASSESS assessment process is crucial, as a positive outcome validates your application and helps strengthen your position in Australia’s immigration points system.

Qualifications and Experience Needed

Candidates are expected to demonstrate formal education in fields such as business administration, management, economics, or a similar discipline. Work experience in consulting roles where applicants contributed to business planning, strategy development, or efficiency improvements is essential. The assessment body places emphasis on hands-on experience, so clearly documenting job roles and achievements within consulting engagements is vital.

Visa Pathways: SC 189 vs. SC 190 vs. SC 491 – Key Differences

Subclass 491 visa is a 5-year temporary visa with a pathway for permanent residency after a minimum of 3 years. Whereas, both the Subclass 189 and 190 visas are permanent residence visas

• SC491 (Temporary Visa): Visa holders must live and work in a designated regional area
• SC190 (Permanent Visa): Nominees commit to living and working in the nominating state or territory
• SC189 (Permanent Visa): No regional commitment required, Visa holder is free to live and work anywhere inside Australia.

Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)

The Skilled Independent Visa (SC 189) is a points-tested visa for skilled workers who wish to live and work anywhere in Australia. It does not require a nomination from a state or territory, making it an attractive option for those who prefer greater flexibility in choosing where to settle in Australia.

• Points Requirement: Subclass 189 is based on a points system, with the minimum points threshold set by the Department of Home Affairs. Points are awarded for factors such as age, English proficiency, educational qualifications, and work experience.
• Expression of Interest (EOI) Process: Applicants need to submit an EOI through SkillSelect, indicating their interest in migrating to Australia. If an applicant meets the points requirement and ranks highly among other candidates, they may receive an invitation to apply.
• Advantages: SC 189 allows the freedom to live and work anywhere in Australia, making it ideal for those who value location flexibility and do not wish to be bound to a specific state or territory.

Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)

The Skilled Nominated Visa (SC 190) is also a points-tested visa, but it requires nomination by an Australian state or territory. Applicants must meet both the general points criteria and the specific requirements of the nominating state, which may include demand for their occupation and commitment to live in that state.

• State Nomination: To qualify, applicants must first receive a nomination from an Australian state or territory. This requirement typically includes an assessment of the state’s current demand for management consultants, as states nominate applicants based on local labour market needs.
• Points Requirement and EOI: Similar to SC 189, applicants submit an EOI through SkillSelect. State nomination typically adds points to an applicant’s overall score, potentially making this visa option more accessible for those who may fall slightly short on points.
• Advantages and Obligations: Subclass 190 grants priority processing and adds points to an applicant’s score, which can be beneficial for candidates who need a boost to reach the required threshold. However, recipients of SC 190 are usually expected to live and work in their nominating state for at least two years.

Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491)

The Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (SC 491) is a points-tested, temporary visa designed for skilled workers who are willing to live, work, and study in designated regional areas of Australia. This visa offers a pathway to permanent residency after meeting specific requirements, making it an appealing choice for those open to regional opportunities.

• Temporary Visa with Pathway to PR: The SC 491 is a 5-year visa that provides a pathway to permanent residency through the Subclass 191 visa, available after a minimum of 3 years of continuous residence and employment in a designated regional area.
• Regional Requirement: Visa holders must reside and work in designated regional areas, which cover a large portion of Australia outside of major metropolitan areas. This requirement supports regional development by attracting skilled workers to areas experiencing workforce shortages and economic growth needs.
• State or Family Sponsorship: To qualify for the SC 491 visa, applicants must either be nominated by an Australian state or territory or sponsored by an eligible family member residing in a designated regional area. This nomination or sponsorship requirement adds points to the applicant’s overall score, increasing the likelihood of receiving an invitation to apply.

Points Calculation for Management Consultants

Australia’s skilled migration system uses a points-based system to determine eligibility for all three visa subclasses. Understanding the points system can help management consultants maximise their score and improve their chances of receiving an invitation.

Overview of the Points System

Points are awarded based on a range of factors, including:

• Age: Younger applicants (typically between 25-32) receive the highest points.
• English Proficiency: Higher points are awarded for superior English language skills, as demonstrated by an IELTS or PTE Academic test.
• Work Experience: Points are granted for both overseas and Australian work experience in relevant fields.
• Educational Qualifications: A Bachelor’s degree or higher in a relevant field is advantageous.
• State or Family Nomination (SC 190 or SC 491): 5 Additional points are awarded if nominated by an Australian state/territory (SC 190). 15 Additional points are awarded if nominated by an Australian state/territory (SC 491)

Summary

Migrating to Australia as a management consultant opens the door to a world of professional and personal opportunities. The nation’s emphasis on skilled migration and its demand for management expertise means that qualified consultants have a competitive edge in the migration process.

At Ten Heads Immigration, our team specialises in guiding management consultants and other professionals through Australia’s skilled migration pathways. With expert advice, personalised support, and a commitment to simplifying the process, we help our clients realise their dreams of living and working in Australia. Ready to take the next step? Book a consultation with us today.