What Australian Work Visas Are Open to Indians Now?

Australia offers several working visa options for Indian nationals depending on skills, occupation, sponsorship, and intended duration of stay. Here are the main types:

1. Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa – Subclass 482

• For: Skilled workers sponsored by an Australian employer.

• Streams: Short-term, Medium-term, Labour agreement.

• Stay: Up to 2 or 4 years.

• Requirements: Job on skilled occupation list, sponsorship, English proficiency.

2. Skilled Independent Visa – Subclass 189

• For: Skilled workers not sponsored by an employer or family.

• Points-based visa requiring invitation to apply.

• Permanent residency.

3. Skilled Nominated Visa – Subclass 190

• For: Skilled workers nominated by an Australian state or territory.

• Points-tested and leads to permanent residency.

4. Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) – Subclass 186

• For: Skilled workers nominated by an employer for permanent work.

• Streams: Direct Entry, Temporary Residence Transition, Labour Agreement.

5. Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme – Subclass 187

• For: Workers sponsored to live and work in regional Australia.

• Permanent residency pathway.

6. Temporary Graduate Visa – Subclass 485

• For: Recent graduates from Australian institutions.

• Allows work after studies (18 months to 4 years).

7. Working Holiday Visa – Subclass 417/462

• Not available to Indians under current arrangements. (Check for future changes.)

8. Business Innovation and Investment Visa – Subclass 188

• For: Entrepreneurs and business people investing in Australia.

Tips for Indian Applicants:

• Check if your occupation is on the skilled occupation list.

• Meet the English language requirement (IELTS, PTE, etc.).

• Skill assessment may be required depending on your profession.

• Use the SkillSelect system to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI).