D3S3- Highlights- Automotive Occupations: Courses & PR Pathways

Introduction

Welcome to the insightful session on “Automotive Occupations: Courses and PR Pathways” from Day 3 of the Aussizz Conclave 4.0 series. This session provided comprehensive information on the various pathways available for individuals in the automotive industry to achieve permanent residency in Australia. Below, you’ll find key discussion points, valuable insights, and FAQs addressed during the session.

Key Discussion Points

1. Visa Options and Requirements

Harshit Tailor discussed various visa options and their specific requirements for those in automotive occupations:

• 482 Visa (Temporary Skill Shortage Visa): Requires a minimum of two years of work experience in the nominated occupation. The work experience does not have to be with the same employer who is sponsoring the visa. This visa can lead to PR through the 186 TRT stream after two years with the same employer.
• 186 Visa (Employer Nomination Scheme Visa): A direct PR visa requiring three years of work experience in the nominated occupation and a positive skill assessment. This visa requires an employer willing to sponsor the applicant.
• 494 Visa (Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) Visa): Requires three years of work experience and a positive skill assessment. This visa is for those who have an employer in a regional area willing to sponsor them. It provides a five-year visa, and after three years with the same employer, the individual can apply for the 191 Visa for permanent residency.

2. State-Specific Requirements

• Victoria: For the 491 Visa in Victoria, it’s possible to apply even if the current job is in a different occupation as long as it is within skill levels 1, 2, or 3. For example, someone with a skill assessment as a motor mechanic can apply if they are working as a retail manager in regional Victoria.
• Points and Competitiveness: Emphasis was placed on obtaining higher points through better scores in English tests like PTE. Higher points increase the chances of receiving an invitation for visas like the 491.

3. Employer-Sponsored Visas

• Employer sponsorship is crucial for visas like the 482, 186, and 494. The employer must meet certain criteria to be eligible to sponsor an applicant.
• Changes expected in November 2024 will reduce the required work experience for the 482 Visa to one year for those who have completed the Job Ready Programme.

FAQs Covered in the Session

1. What are the requirements for a 482 Visa for an automotive occupation?

Answer: The 482 Visa requires a minimum of two years of work experience in the nominated occupation. The work experience does not need to be with the same employer who is sponsoring the visa. It can include overseas experience.

2. Can someone with a skill assessment as a motor mechanic apply for a 491 Visa if they are working as a retail manager in Victoria?

Answer: Yes, in Victoria, it’s possible to apply for the 491 Visa if the current job is within skill levels 1, 2, or 3, even if it’s different from the nominated occupation. For example, a motor mechanic working as a retail manager in regional Victoria can still apply.

3. What is the pathway after obtaining a 494 Visa?

Answer: After holding a 494 Visa, the individual must work for three years with the same employer and meet the income requirements. After this period, they can apply for the 191 Visa, which grants permanent residency.

4. How can I increase my chances of getting a 491 Visa in Victoria?

Answer: To increase your chances, you should aim to score higher points in your English tests, such as PTE. Achieving higher scores can significantly improve your overall points and enhance your likelihood of receiving an invitation.