There are a number of reasons to work and live in Australia for Pharmacists. Now, one more reason. The pharmacist designation is included in the skilled occupational list, making permanent visas easier for pharmacists.

What is the Priority Migration Skilled Occupation List?

The Priority Migration Skilled Occupation List (PMSOL) is a list of occupations that are intended to support the Australian economic system in its recovery from the acute impact of the pandemic. While all other skilled occupation list remains active, the PMSOL occupations will be given priority at the time of visa processing. The list is expanded adding a few more occupations including Pharmacist.

What Visas Are Available for Pharmacist Under Skilled Occupation List?

Now let’s look at the various visas available for Pharmacists and the features of each one. Under PMSOL, a pharmacist can obtain any of the following visas.

  • Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190)
  • Skilled Work Regional Visa (subclass 491)
  • Skilled Employer-Sponsored Regional Visa (subclass 494)

Read More on the steps to becoming a registered pharmacist in Australia.

Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190)

This is a permanent visa that allows you to study and work anywhere in Australia. You can also sponsor eligible relives for permanent residence. In addition, if you meet the requirements, you can become an Australian citizen. You should be invited to apply for the visa and must have sufficient points to submit the visa application.

Skilled Work Regional Visa (subclass 491)

To apply for the skilled work regional visa, you should either be nominated by a state/territory government agency or sponsored by an eligible relative. The visa allows you to stay in Australia for five years. But, like a permanent visa holder, you too can exit and enter many times until the visa is valid. You should be invited and must possess sufficient points to apply for this visa. You can apply for permanent residence after 3 years since the visa is granted. This category also provides visas for dependents. 

Skilled Employer-Sponsored Regional Visa (subclass 494)

This visa category is further classified into employer-sponsored stream, labour agreement stream and, subsequent entrant. The subsequent entrant visa is for the dependents of the SESR visa holder. 

The basic eligibility is you should be sponsored by an approved employer. The age limit is 45 years and should meet the minimum standards in English language proficiency. This visa is the best option for those who have less score. 

Employer-Sponsored Stream: This visa enables employers to sponsor skilled employees to fill in the labour shortages within their region due to the lack of skilled Australian workers. This is a 5-year tenure visa and under this visa, you can live, study and, work in the designated area only. You can apply for permanent residence three years after the visa is granted.

Labour-Agreement stream: It is a 5-year visa. In this category, only employers who have a valid labour agreement with the Australian government can sponsor the skilled workers. 

In conclusion, as the pharmacist designation is included in the list of skilled occupations, it presents a golden opportunity for Pharmacists who aspire to settle in Australia. With the 2023-2024 invitation round about to begin, the pharmacist candidates should seize this opportunity.

The Pharma International Institute is recognized as the best online KAPS coaching centre in Kerala and has a proven track record of success in KAPS exams. We proudly announce that 90% of our students even those with minimum scores have received invitations from Victoria, South Australia, The Northern Territory and Western Australia. Our institute offers comprehensive support for your career journey, including KAPS training, interview preparation, visa assistance, internships, job placements, and more.