Australia’s General Skilled Migration (GSM) program is one of the most popular pathways for skilled professionals, including Nigerians, who wish to live and work in Australia. The GSM system is merit-based, with a points test that determines eligibility for skilled visas. The points test takes into account factors such as age, education, English language proficiency, and work experience, helping to select candidates most suited to contribute to the Australian economy.
In this blog post, the focus will be on understanding how the GSM points test works for Nigerian applicants, the key factors that influence points allocation, and strategies to maximize chances of success in securing a skilled visa to Australia. This comprehensive guide will provide detailed insights into the visa process and the significance of each points-tested criterion.
Overview of Australia’s General Skilled Migration (GSM) Program
The General Skilled Migration (GSM) program is designed for individuals who have skills in demand in Australia. The program facilitates entry for professionals who can fill skill gaps in various industries. The GSM points test applies to a range of skilled visas, but the most commonly targeted ones for Nigerian applicants are:
- Subclass 189 – Skilled Independent Visa: This visa allows skilled workers to live and work permanently anywhere in Australia without needing employer or state sponsorship.
- Subclass 190 – Skilled Nominated Visa: For this visa, applicants must be nominated by an Australian state or territory, and it provides permanent residency in return for commitment to live in the nominating state for a specific period.
- Subclass 491 – Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa: This visa is for applicants who are nominated by a state or territory to live and work in regional Australia for up to five years, with the potential to apply for permanent residency.
All three visa categories use the points test to select the most qualified applicants.
Minimum Points Requirement
To be eligible for an invitation to apply for a GSM visa, Nigerian applicants must score at least 65 points on the GSM points test. However, scoring higher than 65 points significantly increases the chances of receiving an invitation, as the process is competitive, and priority is given to those with higher scores.
Factors that Affect the GSM Points Test for Nigerian Applicants
The GSM points test evaluates several key factors, which are assigned varying point values based on the applicant’s qualifications, work experience, language proficiency, and other relevant criteria. Understanding how points are allocated can help Nigerian applicants focus on areas that will maximize their score.
1. Age
The age of the applicant at the time of receiving an invitation to apply plays a crucial role in the points test. Younger applicants typically receive more points, as they are seen as having longer working lives ahead of them.
- 18–24 years: 25 points
- 25–32 years: 30 points
- 33–39 years: 25 points
- 40–44 years: 15 points
- 45 years and older: 0 points
For Nigerian professionals, the ideal age bracket for maximizing points is 25–32 years, which offers the highest score (30 points).
2. English Language Proficiency
English proficiency is a critical component of the points test. Nigerian applicants must take an approved English language test, such as the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), Pearson Test of English (PTE), or Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL iBT). The points awarded are based on the level of proficiency demonstrated in these tests:
- Competent English (no points awarded): IELTS score of 6.0 in each band.
- Proficient English (10 points): IELTS score of 7.0 in each band.
- Superior English (20 points): IELTS score of 8.0 in each band.
Since Nigerian applicants are often fluent in English, aiming for a Proficient or Superior level can be an excellent way to increase the total points score. Achieving a score of 8.0 or higher in each band of IELTS can provide the maximum 20 points.
3. Skilled Employment
Work experience in a relevant skilled occupation is another key factor in the points test. Nigerian applicants can claim points for both overseas work experience (including work in Nigeria) and Australian work experience if applicable. Points are awarded as follows:
- Work Experience Outside Australia:
- 3–5 years: 5 points
- 5–8 years: 10 points
- 8+ years: 15 points
- Work Experience in Australia:
- 1–3 years: 5 points
- 3–5 years: 10 points
- 5–8 years: 15 points
- 8+ years: 20 points
It’s important for Nigerian applicants to document their work experience carefully, ensuring that it aligns with the requirements of their nominated occupation. Accumulating more than eight years of experience can result in the maximum number of points for overseas experience.
4. Educational Qualifications
The level of educational attainment is a significant contributor to the points total. Points are awarded based on the highest qualification obtained:
- Doctorate (PhD): 20 points
- Bachelor’s Degree or Higher: 15 points
- Diploma or Trade Qualification: 10 points
- Recognized Qualification in a Skilled Occupation: 10 points
For Nigerian professionals with a bachelor’s or master’s degree, the 15 points for this category can be a strong asset. Higher degrees, such as a doctorate, will further enhance the score.
5. Australian Study Requirement
If a Nigerian applicant has previously studied in Australia, they may be able to claim additional points if their study meets the Australian Study Requirement. This requirement is fulfilled if the applicant has completed at least two years of full-time study in Australia at a registered institution.
- Australian Study Requirement: 5 points
This is particularly relevant for Nigerian students who have completed their education in Australia and are now seeking permanent residency.
6. Specialist Education Qualification
Applicants with a Master’s degree by research or a Doctorate in a field related to science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM) can claim extra points for holding a specialist qualification.
- Specialist Education Qualification in STEM: 10 points
This category benefits Nigerian applicants who have specialized education in areas where Australia faces skill shortages, such as engineering or information technology.
7. Partner Skills
Applicants can gain additional points if their spouse or de facto partner also meets certain requirements for skilled migration. Points are awarded as follows:
- If the partner is under 45 years of age, has competent English, and has a positive Skills Assessment: 10 points.
- If the partner has competent English but no Skills Assessment: 5 points.
If the applicant is single or their partner does not meet these criteria, no points are awarded in this category.
8. Other Factors
There are additional factors where Nigerian applicants can gain extra points, including:
- State or Territory Nomination (for Subclass 190): 5 points.
- Regional Nomination (for Subclass 491): 15 points.
- Completion of a Professional Year in Australia: 5 points.
The State or Territory Nomination is especially important for Nigerians applying for the Subclass 190 visa, as state sponsorship can make a significant difference in reaching the required points threshold.
How Nigerian Applicants Can Maximize Their Points
To increase the chances of receiving an invitation to apply for a skilled visa, Nigerian applicants should focus on maximizing their points in key areas. Here are some strategies to help improve overall points:
- Improve English Proficiency: Achieving a Superior English score on the IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL iBT can provide up to 20 points. Given that English is widely spoken in Nigeria, investing in preparation for these tests can be highly beneficial.
- Accumulate More Work Experience: For those with fewer years of work experience, gaining additional years in the relevant occupation can increase the points awarded for employment. Nigerian applicants should aim to document their work experience thoroughly to claim the highest possible points.
- Pursue Higher Education: Completing advanced degrees, such as a master’s or doctorate in a STEM-related field, can provide significant points for both educational qualifications and specialist education.
- Consider State or Regional Nomination: Applying for a state or regional nomination can add 5 to 15 points, depending on the visa subclass. Nigerian applicants should research the state and territory programs to identify regions in need of their skills.
- Leverage Partner Skills: If the applicant’s partner meets the criteria for skilled migration, claiming partner points can boost the overall score. Couples should ensure that both partners meet the eligibility requirements where possible.
Application Process for the GSM Program
Once Nigerian applicants meet the points threshold, they can proceed with the following steps in the GSM application process:
- Skills Assessment: Obtain a positive Skills Assessment from an authorized assessing body for the nominated occupation. The Skills Assessment confirms that the applicant’s qualifications and experience meet Australian standards.
- Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI): Lodge an EOI through the SkillSelect system, providing detailed information about the applicant’s skills, qualifications, and work experience. The EOI allows the Department of Home Affairs or state and territory governments to invite candidates who meet their needs.
- Wait for an Invitation to Apply: Once the EOI is submitted, applicants must wait for an invitation to apply for a skilled visa. Invitations are issued periodically, with higher-scoring candidates receiving priority.
- Lodge a Visa Application: Upon receiving an invitation, applicants have 60 days to submit a formal visa application, including supporting documents such as police certificates, medical exams, and proof of qualifications.
Conclusion
For Nigerian professionals seeking to migrate to Australia, understanding and maximizing the GSM points test is essential to securing a skilled visa. The GSM program offers a transparent and merit-based pathway to permanent residency, with points awarded for age, education, work experience, English language proficiency, and other factors. By carefully navigating the points test and focusing on improving key areas, Nigerian applicants can increase their chances of receiving an invitation and achieving their goal of living and working in Australia.
The GSM points test is competitive, and aiming for a higher score than the minimum 65 points can significantly improve the likelihood of success. Through careful planning, continuous professional development, and strategic use of partner skills, Nigerian applicants can successfully navigate Australia’s General Skilled Migration process and build a successful future Down Under.