Subclass 189 Skilled Independent Visa
The Subclass 189 visa is a points-tested permanent visa for skilled workers who are not sponsored by an employer, state, or family member. It allows holders to live and work anywhere in Australia as permanent residents.
Subclass 189 Skilled Independent Visa
Overview
The Subclass 189 Skilled Independent visa is a permanent residence visa for skilled workers who are not sponsored by an employer, state or territory, or family member. It is points-tested and designed for individuals with occupations listed on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL).
There are two streams under this visa subclass:
- Points-tested stream (main pathway)
- New Zealand stream (for eligible NZ citizens)
Key Features
- Permanent residency from day one
- No requirement for state nomination or sponsorship
- Freedom to live and work anywhere in Australia
- Access to Medicare and eligible social services
- Pathway to Australian citizenship
Eligibility Criteria (Points-Tested Stream)
To apply under the points-tested stream, you must:
- Be invited to apply after submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI) via SkillSelect
- Be under 45 years of age at the time of invitation
- Have a suitable skills assessment for an occupation on the MLTSSL
- Score at least 65 points on the General Skilled Migration (GSM) points test
- Demonstrate competent English (IELTS 6 or equivalent)
- Meet health and character requirements
- Not have had a visa cancelled or refused while in Australia
Points Test Breakdown
| Criteria | Maximum Points |
|---|---|
| Age | 30 |
| English Language Ability | 20 |
| Skilled Employment (in/out AU) | 20 |
| Educational Qualifications | 20 |
| Australian Study Requirement | 5 |
| Credentialed Community Language (NAATI CCL) | 5 |
| Regional Study | 5 |
| Partner Skills | 10 |
| Professional Year in Australia | 5 |
| State Nomination or Sponsorship | N/A for 189 |
You must score at least 65 points to be eligible, but higher scores increase your chances of receiving an invitation.
Occupation List
You must nominate an occupation from the MLTSSL. Some common occupations include:
- Software Engineer
- Civil Engineer
- Accountant (General)
- Registered Nurse
- ICT Business Analyst
The full list is available on the Department of Home Affairs website.
Application Process
- Check Eligibility: Ensure you meet basic requirements including age, occupation, skills assessment, and points score.
- Skills Assessment: Apply for a skills assessment with the relevant assessing authority.
- Submit EOI: Lodge an Expression of Interest (EOI) via SkillSelect.
- Wait for Invitation: If selected, you will receive an invitation to apply.
- Lodge Visa Application: Submit your application within 60 days of receiving the invitation.
- Health & Character Checks: Complete relevant checks.
- Visa Grant: Await outcome from the Department of Home Affairs.
Processing Time
| Stream | Processing Time |
|---|---|
| Points-tested | 75% in 4 months |
| 90% in 6 months |
Note: Times may vary based on application complexity and completeness.
Costs
- Base Application Fee: AUD 4,640
- Additional Applicant (18+): AUD 2,320
- Additional Applicant (<18): AUD 1,160
Other costs may include health checks, police certificates, biometrics, and English tests.
Conditions After Grant
Once granted, the visa:
- Allows indefinite stay in Australia
- Includes a 5-year travel facility
- Requires visa holders to enter Australia within the grant period
- Can be used to apply for citizenship after meeting residency and character requirements
New Zealand Stream (Now Closed)
Previously available to eligible New Zealand citizens who lived in Australia. This stream closed permanently on 1 July 2023. NZ citizens are now eligible for direct citizenship pathways without needing the 189 visa.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a cap on 189 visa invitations?
Yes. The number of invitations can vary monthly based on planning levels and migration targets.
How often are invitation rounds held?
Invitation rounds are typically held quarterly but are subject to change. Invitations are issued to the highest-ranked candidates.
Can I include family members?
Yes. You can include your spouse/partner and dependent children.
Is state nomination required?
No. Unlike 190 or 491, the 189 visa does not require state nomination.
Helpful Resources
Summary
The 189 visa is the most independent and streamlined path to Australian permanent residency for skilled professionals. It is ideal for high-scoring candidates with in-demand occupations who want full flexibility in where they live and work in Australia.
Tags: `skilled visa`, `subclass 189`, `australian pr`, `migration`, `points test`, `MLTSSL`, `EOI`, `permanent residency`, `no sponsorship`, `visa 189`