01 / The starting point
What needs to line up.
A useful assessment looks at the requirements together, in the context of your circumstances.
- An approved sponsor must nominate the position. The role and applicant must satisfy the selected stream.
- Core Skills requires a listed occupation; Specialist Skills has eligible occupation-group and income-threshold requirements.
- Core Skills applicants need at least one year of relevant work experience and the required skills and English, subject to applicable exemptions.
A summary of key criteria, not a complete eligibility test. Stream-specific requirements and exceptions need individual assessment.
02 / Prepare with purpose
The evidence behind
your story.
- Nomination details and records of your role, employment history and qualifications.
- English evidence and a skills assessment where required for your circumstances.
- Identity and family records, plus health, character and insurance evidence as applicable.
Keep records accurate and consistent. Agree a secure method before sharing personal documents.
03 / Understand the stages
A clearer view of
the process.
- 01
Match the actual role, occupation and salary to the appropriate stream.
- 02
Coordinate the employer’s sponsorship and nomination steps with your visa preparation.
- 03
Apply with supporting evidence and check the work conditions in the eventual grant notice.
04 / Make informed decisions
Details that matter.
- A job offer alone does not satisfy sponsorship, nomination or visa requirements.
- Salary thresholds change; check current requirements before agreeing the nominated package.
- A later permanent visa requires a separate assessment. Check your conditions before changing jobs.
05 / Plan realistically
Costs, timing
and expectations.
Understand the total
Government charges, professional fees and expenses such as assessments, tests or translations are separate. Confirm the current charges and agreed scope before committing.
Allow for uncertainty
Published processing times are indicative. Individual cases, evidence requests and programme settings can affect timing. Avoid relying on an expected decision date for irreversible plans.
Go to the source
Official information
- Home Affairs — Skills in Demand streams
- Home Affairs — Core Skills stream
- Home Affairs — Labour Agreement stream
General information only. Check current Home Affairs requirements before acting. No invitation, visa decision or processing time is guaranteed.