The contents of this article are correct as at 6 August 2012.
On 1 August 2012 DIAC issued the first round of invitations under the new SkillSelect system for General Skilled Migration visas. Under SkillSelect applicants must submit an Expression of Interest listing the skills and experience which prove their suitability for the Australian labour market. Various aspects of the applicants’ skills and experience attract points and applicants must reach at least 60 points to be eligible for an invitation.
The system is designed to give DIAC maximum flexibility in determining who should receive an invitation to apply for a General Skilled Migration visa. This was evident in the first round of invitations to issue which saw only applicants with a score of at least 75 points being issued with invitations.
While we have since seen invitations issued to applicants with a pass mark of 60 points, it is worth noting that DIAC has created a system where they have ultimate control over who can and can’t apply for a general skilled migration visa. Being able to satisfy the points test is not sufficient in itself to ensure an invitation will be issued.
If you would like further information about the SkillSelect application process for a General Skilled Migration visa please feel free to contact us.