This permanent visa category is assessed against the applicant's skills. It is aimed at overseas students who have finished their studies in the last six months and as the name suggests it is independent of sponsorship or other criteria and relies on the applicant's skill base alone.

You must bbe under the age of 50 years when you apply and must have competent english language skills.

This visa is assessed on a points system and 65 points are required to qualify as well as meeting the standard conditions.

Points are awarded in the following categories:

1. Age
2. English Language
3. Australian and Overseas Work Experience
4. Australian Study
5. Qualifications
6. Community Language
7. Regional Australian Study
8. Spouse Skills
9. Professional Year

This visa provides immediate permanent residency to the applicant and his or her immediate family who accompany them on their application.  You must be under the age of 50 years at the time of making application and have good English Skills. You must have skills or qualifications comparable to Australian Qualification in a skilled occupation on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL).

The visa is for those currently in Australia as an overseas student or former overseas student, holders of a Skilled – Graduate (subclass 485) visas or Skilled – Recognised Graduate (subclass 476) visa or a holder of a Trade Skills Training (subclass 471) visa. Students must satisfy the two year study rule within 6 months of making application.

Visa Charges:

1^st installment of $2,960.00 (AUD) is payable at the time of making the application.
2^nd installment of $4,110.00 (AUD) must be paid before the visa is granted if you have dependant 18 years of age or older who have less than functional English.