REOPENING THE SKILLED MIGRANT CATEGORY

October 26, 2022

The Government is finally reopening the SMC, and selections of expressions of interest applications (EOIs) will start on 9 November 2022. EOI’s with 160 points or more will be selected in this first draw. Migrants selected from the EOI pool will receive an invitation to apply (ITA) for residence. Then, they have 4 months from the date of the ITA to submit their residence visa application.

After 9 November 2022, migrants will need to have 180 points at least for the next EOI draw on 18 January 2023. Thereafter, EOI draws will occur on the 3rd Wednesday of each month.

Migrants, who have already submitted their EOIs, should ensure that the information in their EOI application meets the current SMC requirements. And if you were unable to apply for the 2021 Resident Visa, or do not qualify for the Green List or Highly Paid residence pathway, then you need to quickly assess whether you can achieve the 160 points for SMC. If you do, submit your EOI before 9 November 2022.

The Government is consulting on a proposed new points-based system for skilled migrants that will complement the Green List and Highly Paid residence pathways. The proposed new system has less and simpler selection criteria. If all goes according to plan, the new points-based system will be in place around mid-2023.

To find out more about the Skilled Migrant Category and for immigration assistance, feel free to get in touch. We can advise whether your skills can help you achieve residency or provide any other legal assistance you require.