Discover 3 Australian work visas that don’t require a job offer in 2024-2025. Get permanent residency and start your journey.
Introduction
Traditionally, people believed that having a job offer was essential to apply for Australian permanent residency.
However, if you’re planning to move to Australia in 2024–2025, several visa options allow you to secure permanent residency without the need for a job offer.
In this guide, we explore the top three work visas that allow you to move to Australia and live permanently without securing a job beforehand.
These visas include the Nominated Visa Subclass 190, the Skilled Independent Visa Subclass 189, and the Family Sponsorship Visa.
Explore 3 Work Visas That Don’t Require a Job
1. Nominated Visa Subclass 190
The Nominated Visa Subclass 190 is an excellent option for skilled professionals seeking permanent residency in Australia without a job offer. To apply, you need to be nominated by an Australian state or territory.
Key Requirements:
- Skilled Occupation List: Select a job from the Skilled Occupation List (SOL), which varies across states based on labor demand.
- Skills and Qualifications: Your qualifications must align with an occupation on the SOL and meet the specific state or territory requirements.
- Expression of Interest (EOI): Submit an EOI, and after approval, receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) to complete your visa application.
Processing Time:
The processing time for this visa is around 16 to 17 months.
Benefits of Subclass 190:
- Permanent residency status.
- Access to public healthcare and social benefits.
- Freedom to Reside and Work in the Nominating State: You will have the ability to live and work anywhere within the state that sponsors you.
2. Skilled Independent Visa Subclass 189
The Skilled Independent Visa Subclass 189 allows skilled workers to obtain permanent residency without the need for a job offer, nomination, or sponsorship.
Key Requirements:
- Points-Based System: This visa uses a points-based system under the General Skilled Migration (GSM) program. Factors like age, education, work experience, and language skills determine your points.
- Skill Assessment: You must undergo a positive skills assessment for your occupation, which must also be listed on Australia’s Skilled Employment List.
- Expression of Interest (EOI): Like Subclass 190, submit an EOI and wait for an ITA.
Processing Time:
The application processing time is approximately 18 to 19 months.
Benefits of Subclass 189:
- Permanent residency without any state restrictions.
- Ability to Live and Work Anywhere: You will have the freedom to reside and work in any location across Australia.
- The ability to bring family members to Australia.
3. Family Sponsorship Visa
The Family Sponsorship Visa allows you to obtain permanent residency if you have a family member in Australia who is a citizen or permanent resident.
Key Requirements:
- Eligible Family Members: You must have a spouse, parent, child, or legal partner who can sponsor your visa application. In some cases, extended family members can sponsor you.
- No Job Offer Required: This visa type is perfect for those with close relatives in Australia, eliminating the need for a job offer.
Benefits of Family Sponsorship Visa:
- Permanent residency status.
- The opportunity to reunite with family members.
- Eligibility for Public Services: You will have access to essential public services, including healthcare and education.
Benefits of Moving to Australia Without a Job Offer
Opting for one of these visa types offers numerous advantages:
- Permanent Residency: Each of these visas grants you permanent residency, allowing you to live, work, and study in Australia indefinitely.
- Access to Benefits: Enjoy social security, public healthcare, and education benefits.
- Path to Citizenship: After a few years, you can apply for Australian citizenship.
- No Immediate Employment Pressure: You can move to Australia without the pressure of securing a job beforehand, giving you time to settle and find suitable work.
Eligibility Criteria for These Visas
To qualify for any of the visas mentioned above, certain eligibility criteria must be met:
- Age Requirement: You must be younger than 45 years at the time you submit your application.
- Skilled Occupation: Your profession must be on the Skilled Occupation List (for Subclass 189 and 190 visas).
- Health and Character: You must pass health and character checks.
- Points Requirement: A minimum of 65 points is required for both the Subclass 189 and Subclass 190 visas.
Required Documents
Each visa application requires the submission of specific documents:
- Proof of identity (passport).
- Skills assessment certificate.
- Evidence of qualifications.
- English language proficiency (IELTS, PTE).
- Expression of Interest (EOI) approval letter.
- Health and character certificates.
- Sponsorship documents (for Family Sponsorship Visa).
How to Apply for Australian Visas Without a Job Offer
Here’s a step-by-step guide to applying for Australian visas without a job offer:
- Check Eligibility: Ensure you meet the visa’s eligibility criteria (age, skills, occupation).
- Complete a Skills Assessment: Get your qualifications evaluated by an authorized assessing body.
- Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI): Submit your EOI through SkillSelect, detailing your qualifications, skills, and experience.
- Wait for an Invitation to Apply (ITA): If your profile is strong enough, you’ll receive an ITA from the Department of Home Affairs.
- Prepare and Submit Your Application: Provide all necessary documents and pay the application fee.
- Await Decision: Wait for your visa application to be processed, which may take 16 to 19 months.
Leveraging Time After Permanent Residency Approval
Once you receive permanent residency, there is usually a grace period (up to a year) to move to Australia. Use this time to:
- Research job opportunities: Explore job portals, recruitment agencies, and networking platforms like LinkedIn.
- Update your CV: Ensure your resume meets Australian standards.
- Understand Australian work culture: Prepare for your transition by learning about workplace expectations and practices.
Points-Based System for Permanent Residency
For visas like Subclass 189 and 190, points are a key factor in determining eligibility. The higher your score, the greater your chances of receiving an ITA.
Factors That Influence Points:
| Factor | Points |
|---|---|
| Age (25–32) | 30 |
| English proficiency | 20 |
| Skilled work experience | 15 |
| Qualifications | 10–20 |
| Partner’s skills | 10 |
Conclusion
Moving to Australia without a job offer is achievable through the Nominated Visa Subclass 190, the Skilled Independent Visa Subclass 189, or the Family Sponsorship Visa. Each of these pathways grants permanent residency and provides access to benefits, such as healthcare and education, while giving you time to search for employment. If you meet the eligibility criteria and submit all required documents, you can start your new life in Australia in 2024-2025.
FAQs
- Can I move to Australia without a job offer?
Yes, you can apply for visas like Subclass 190, 189, or the Family Sponsorship Visa without a job offer. - What is the processing time for Subclass 190?
The processing time is generally 16 to 17 months. - How do I earn points for an Australian visa?
Points are awarded based on age, qualifications, work experience, and English language skills. - Can family members join me in Australia?
Yes, most visas allow you to bring immediate family members. - Do I need a skills assessment for these visas?
Yes, a positive skills assessment is required for Subclass 189 and 190 visas.