Can I immigrate to Australia without a job offer? This is a question that has been asked frequently. The short answer to this is a ‘YES’.
If you have been considering immigrating to Australia to start a new life, you have probably already determined that one of the fastest ways to do this is by securing a job offer in Australia prior to your application. Well, this is the best scenario in the ideal world!
But how feasible is it to make the move and then search for work when you arrive? There are several recognised paths you can take to achieve this, read on to find out more.
The Australian Immigration System uses a points-based system to determine eligibility for permanent residency in Australia, and having a solid job offer, or sponsorship, gives you extra points but is not required for your application to be considered.
Other factors are taken into account such as age, English proficiency, previous work experience, educational qualifications, and niche skills.
Anyone applying for residency who is well educated, highly skilled, and will contribute to the Australian economy may have options. Likewise, people with a spouse, sibling, parent or equally close relative who already has permanent resident status may be able to apply themselves.
Australia Subclass 189 Visa
The subclass 189 visa (sometimes referred to as the Skill Independent Visa Subclass 189 visa) looks at the overall profile of the applicant and does not require a job offer.
Points are awarded for language ability and skills, and to apply you must select one of the occupations from the Skilled Occupations List in which you have the relevant experience, and then submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) to the Australian immigration authorities who will process your interest.
You will only be considered if you have an IELTS language test score of 6 or over, obtain a skill evaluation certificate from an appropriate authority, and achieve 65 points under the points-based system.
If you receive an invitation to apply, you must complete your application within 60 days.
Australia Subclass 190 Visa
The subclass 190 visa is a state or territory-nominated permanent visa for skilled migrants which you can fill out an EOI (Express of Interest) without a firm offer of a job. The conditions that need to be met are the same as for the subclass 189 visa, apart from the fact that the applicant must have expertise in one of the occupations listed in the Consolidated Sponsored Occupation List (CSOL).
These visas are used to assist Australia to fulfil shortages in particular territories, although once granted, there is no obligation to stay in that territory.
The application process after choosing the CSOL occupation that best suits your skill set, involves submitting an EOI, and if successful, submitting your application, along with achieving a score of 6 or more in the IELTS, and 65 points from the points-based system. You will also need a health certificate and a police clearance check.
Other Possible Routes For Immigrate to Australia Without A Job Offer
Although subclass 189 and 190 visas are the main routes to permanent residence without a job offer in Australia, they are not the only ones. If you think that neither of these visas is suitable, you may still be eligible under one of the following schemes:
- Family-Sponsored Visas – You can use a close relative such as a parent, sibling, or spouse to sponsor your permanent residence visa.
- Business Innovation and Investment visa – This option may be available for people who own and manage a business in Australia, or who want to invest in a business venture in Australia. If successful, initially you will get a provisional residence visa, but you are then eligible to apply for permanent residence after 3 years
- Global Talent visa – This visa is available for highly skilled and talented individuals that can prove they have an internationally recognised record of their achievements and are still active in their field.
- Distinguished Talent visa – although similar to the Global Talent visa, the DTV is for gifted people that do not fit into the targeted sectors of the GTV. This includes exceptional sports people, academics, or people involved in the arts.
Australia has a well-earned reputation for being very selective about whom it grants permanent residence to, but we hope this article has highlighted that there are multiple paths to entry without the need for a firm job offer when you arrive.
Do You Need Help With Employment Or Staffing Solutions?
If you are currently looking to immigrate to Australia, consulting reputable Australian immigration advisors is a smart decision. Here at Southern Cross Personnel, we have been helping many overseas skilled workers find jobs in Australia as well as providing support for immigration needs. So, please do not hesitate to get in touch for more information.
If you are an Australian employer looking to recruit a candidate for your company but are unable to find a local candidate to fill your open position, we’re here ready to assist you. Please get in touch to discuss how we can help you with your staffing requirements.
Please contact us on Tel: +61 (0) 8 8155 6025 if you have any questions about employment and migration to Australia, we’re here to help you.
