Australia has a robust skilled migration program that offers several visa pathways for qualified professionals looking to live and work temporarily or permanently in Australia.

The main skilled visa subclasses include:

Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)

This is a permanent residence visa for highly skilled professionals who do not need employer sponsorship. Applicants are selected based solely on their skills, experience and other eligibility criteria.

• Requires expression of interest and invitation to apply based on points score
• Points-tested based on factors like qualifications, skilled employment, English skills
• Does not require nomination or sponsorship
• Leads to permanent residency in Australia

Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)

This permanent residence visa requires nomination by a state or territory government. Applicants must have skills in an occupation listed on the relevant occupations list for their nominating state.

• Requires nomination by a state/territory government
• Points-tested based on core criteria along with state nomination points
• Occupation must be on applicable state list
• Permanent residency granted

Skilled Regional Provisional Visa (Subclass 491)

This 4-year provisional visa requires nomination by a state/territory government OR sponsorship by an eligible relative living regionally.

• Provisional visa valid for 4 years
• Designed for skilled workers in regional occupations
• Requires nomination OR relative sponsorship
• Can apply for permanent visa after living/working in region for 3 years

Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional Provisional Visa (Subclass 494)

This is a 4-year provisional visa requiring employer sponsorship in regional Australia.

• Provisional visa valid for 4 years
• Requires employer sponsorship in regional area
• Occupation must be on relevant skilled list
• Pathway to apply for permanent residence after 3 years

Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (Subclass 482)

This short-term work visa allows skilled workers to live in Australia for up to 4 years if sponsored by an approved employer.

• Maximum 4 year visa validity
• Requires employer sponsorship
• Three streams – Short, Medium and Labour Agreement
• Renewal possible in certain circumstances

In summary, Australia offers various skilled visa programs that provide temporary or permanent pathways for professionals with in-demand qualifications, skills, and experience. Each visa has specific requirements relating to sponsorship, nomination, occupation lists, and other eligibility criteria.