Skilled migration is usually staged. The outline below reflects common points-tested pathways.

Five steps

  1. Initial assessment: confirm occupation direction, approximate points, and whether independent or state-nominated options fit better.
  2. Skills assessment: lodge with the relevant assessing authority and wait for the outcome.
  3. EOI / state nomination: submit an Expression of Interest in SkillSelect; for state pathways, also meet nomination criteria.
  4. Invitation then formal lodgement: lodge the visa application within the required timeframe and prepare English, health and character documents.
  5. Further information and decision: respond to any requests within deadlines.

Prepare in parallel

  • English score targets and validity windows.
  • Employment evidence that aligns with the nominated occupation.
  • Extra state criteria such as local study, work or residence.
  • Invitation competitiveness—meeting the minimum points threshold does not guarantee an invitation.

If points are not competitive, evaluate English improvement, state/regional options or employer-sponsored backups instead of waiting on one outcome only.