Visa Points for Pharmacy Career in Australia

Introduction :

The General Skilled Migration (GSM) program provides overseas-trained pharmacists with a fantastic pathway to live and work in Australia permanently. This program includes different visa subclasses based on individual circumstances:

• Subclass 189 (Skilled Independent Visa): No sponsorship required.

• Subclass 190 (Skilled Nominated Visa): Requires state or territory nomination, offering 5 extra points.

• Subclass 491 (Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa): Ideal for regional work and provides 15 additional points when nominated by a state or region.

Below is a detailed guide to earning and maximizing your visa points:

1. Age Criteria

Points are awarded based on your age:

• 18-24 years: 25 points

• 25-32 years: 30 points (maximum for age)

• 33-39 years: 25 points

• 40-45 years: 15 points

• Above 45 years: 0 points

2. English Language Proficiency

Higher proficiency in tests like PTE, IELTS, or TOEFL can significantly increase your points:

• Superior English (PTE 79+ in all modules / IELTS Band 8): 20 points

• Proficient English (PTE 70-78 / IELTS Band 7): 10 points

• Competent English (PTE <65 / IELTS Band 6): 0 points

3. Work Experience

Overseas Work Experience:

• 3 years: 5 points

• 5 years: 10 points

• 8 years: 15 points

Australian Work Experience:

• 1 year: 5 points

• 3 years: 10 points

• 5 years: 15 points

• 8 years: 20 points

4. Skills Assessment (OPRA Exam)

The Overseas Pharmacist Registration Exam (OPRA) is essential for overseas pharmacists. It validates your qualifications and is mandatory for registration in Australia.

5. Qualifications

Points based on academic achievements:

• Doctorate: 20 points

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree: 15 points

Qualifications closely aligned with pharmacy enhance success prospects.

6. Regional Study

Studying for at least two years in regional Australia earns 5 points. This also opens doors to Regional Sponsored Migration Schemes (RSMS).

7. Professional Year in Australia

Completing a Professional Year (PY) program related to pharmacy in Australia adds 5 points.

For those on a Subclass 407 Training Visa, completing the training in Australia allows you to claim 5 points for your Permanent Residency (PR) application.

8. Partner Points

• Single or married to an Australian partner: 10 points

• Partner’s occupation on the Skilled Occupation List (meeting age and English language proficiency criteria): 10 points

• Partner with competent English only (PTE 60+ or IELTS Band 6+): 5 points (even if their occupation is not on the Skilled Occupation List).

9. State Sponsorship Points

• Subclass 190 Visa: 5 additional points for state nomination.

• Subclass 491 Visa: 15 additional points for state or regional nomination.

Conclusion: Achieve Your Pharmacy Career Goals in Australia

To increase your chances of qualifying for a GSM visa, focus on improving your English language proficiency, gaining work experience, and completing regional study or a professional year in Australia. These steps not only boost your points but also position you for success in Australia’s in-demand pharmacy sector.

At Elite Expertise, we provide tailored support for the OPRA exam and guidance through every step of the registration and migration process. Take the first step toward building a thriving pharmacy career in Australia today!