SkillSelect Invitations – September and October 2015

newsThe results of the September 2015 SkillSelect Invitation Round are now available.  Also find out about the October 2015 invitation rounds and the changes that are occurring.

SkillSelect September Results

In September 2015, the following number of invitations were issued: (Source: DIBP)

Visa Subclass Number
Skilled – Independent (subclass 189) 2300
Skilled – Regional Provisional (subclass 489) 80

The SkillSelect system ranks applicants by their Points Score.  For certain occupations, applicants are also ranked within their occupation.  For the invitation on 7 September 2015, the following points and visa date of effect were required to obtain an invitation:

Visa Subclass Points score Visa date of effect
Skilled – Independent (subclass 189) 60 27 July 2015 9.22 am
Skilled – Regional Provisional (subclass 489) 60 17 June 2015 3.37 pm

Source: DIBP

However, for the following occupational groups, a higher score was required due to pro-rated invitations being issued.  The reason is due to high demand for these occupations, and a limit on the number of occupations (the occupation ceiling) that can be issued each financial year.

Points Description
2211 Accountants
2611 ICT Business and System Analysts
2613 Software and Applications Programmers

Source: DIBP

The Department has also announced that Auditors, Company Secretaries and Corporate Treasurers have reached their occupation ceiling and no more invitations will be issued until after 1 July 2016.

SkillSelect October 2015 Invitation Rounds

There will be two invitation rounds starting October 2015.  However, there will be fewer invitations in each round.  Our advice to applicants is to ensure your EOI is lodged at the earliest date, to help ensure an earlier visa date of effect.  Furthermore, it is worth considering alternative visa options apart from Subclass 189 and Subclass 489.  Speak to us to discuss the potential options for your specific situation.

The above information does not constitute immigration advice or assistance.