03/01/2025
The 189 Visa Australia, also known as the Skilled Independent Visa Australia, is a popular pathway for skilled workers who want to obtain permanent residency in Australia. Unlike other skilled visas, the Subclass 189 Visa Australia does not require employer or state nomination, making it an attractive choice for skilled professionals worldwide. This guide covers everything you need to know about the 189 Australia Visa, including eligibility, application process, English requirements, and benefits. If you're looking to apply for 189 visa Australia, read on to ensure a smooth application experience.
The 189 Visa Australia, officially known as the Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189), is a permanent residency visa designed for skilled workers who do not require sponsorship from an employer, state, or family member. It is a points-tested visa that allows invited candidates to live and work anywhere in Australia indefinitely.
This visa is one of the most sought-after migration pathways for skilled professionals looking for independence, flexibility, and a direct route to Australian PR.
No Sponsorship Needed: Unlike other skilled visas, the 189 Skilled Visa Australia does not require a state or employer nomination. This means you have complete freedom to choose where to live and work.
Permanent Residency (PR): The 189 PR Visa Australia grants indefinite stay, allowing you to live, work, and study in Australia permanently.
Access to Medicare: Visa holders gain access to Australia’s public healthcare system (Medicare), reducing medical expenses.
Pathway to Citizenship: After fulfilling the residency requirements, 189 visa holders can apply for Australian citizenship.
Family Inclusion: You can include your spouse and dependent children in your visa application, giving them the same PR benefits.
Freedom to Work Anywhere: Unlike state-sponsored visas, the 189 Subclass Visa Australia allows you to work in any city or region without restrictions.
Opportunity to Sponsor Family: Once granted, 189 visa holders can sponsor eligible family members for permanent residency.
The Skilled Independent Visa Australia is ideal for individuals who:
Have skills and qualifications in an occupation listed on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL).
Want to live and work in any part of Australia without being tied to a particular employer or state.
Have a strong points-based profile (minimum 65 points) covering age, work experience, education, and English proficiency.
Seek a direct pathway to Australian PR with fewer restrictions.
If you fit this profile, then applying for the 189 subclass visa Australia can be your best chance to start a new life in Australia with full residency rights.
To be eligible for the Australian Skilled Independent Visa 189, applicants must meet the following requirements:
Your occupation must be listed on the Skilled Independent Visa Australia Occupation List, which is updated periodically by the Australian government.
A positive skills assessment from a relevant assessing authority is required before submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI). The assessment ensures your qualifications and work experience match Australian standards.
The 189 PR Visa Australia operates on a points-based system, where applicants must score at least 65 points based on:
Age: Younger applicants (25-32 years) get the highest points.
English Language Proficiency: Higher test scores (IELTS, PTE, TOEFL) earn more points.
Work Experience: Points are awarded based on skilled work experience in and outside Australia.
Educational Qualifications: Higher degrees receive more points.
Additional Factors: Points for Australian education, partner skills, or specialized qualifications.
Improve English Proficiency: Higher IELTS/PTE scores earn more points.
Gain More Work Experience: More skilled experience increases points.
Pursue Higher Education: A master's or PhD in a relevant field adds extra points.
Obtain an Australian Qualification: Completing education in Australia boosts your score.
Applicants must prove their English proficiency through standardized tests like IELTS, PTE, TOEFL, or Cambridge English. A minimum Competent English level is required (IELTS 6.0 in each band).
You must submit an EOI via SkillSelect and receive an invitation to apply from the Department of Home Affairs.
Applicants must undergo a medical examination and provide a police clearance certificate from all countries where they have lived for 12 months or more in the past 10 years.
Ensure your occupation is on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL) and that you meet the required points criteria.
Apply for a skills assessment from the relevant assessing body for your profession. This step verifies whether your qualifications and experience align with Australian standards.
Log in to SkillSelect, submit an EOI, and wait for an invitation. You must provide details of your qualifications, work experience, and language test results.
If you meet the requirements and have a competitive points score, you will receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) from the Department of Home Affairs.
Once invited, submit your Australia 189 Visa Application within 60 days, including all required documents such as ID, skills assessment, language test results, and medical checks.
Undergo the required health and character checks as per visa guidelines.
The Australia visa processing time for the 189 subclass visa Australia varies, but it generally takes 6-12 months.
Incomplete Documentation: Missing or incorrect documents can lead to refusal.
Insufficient Points: Ensure you meet at least 65 points.
Failed Skills Assessment: Your qualifications must match Australian standards.
Health or Character Issues: Not meeting these requirements can result in rejection.
Work and Study in Australia Permanently
Access to Social Security Benefits
Opportunity to Apply for Australian Citizenship
Sponsorship Rights for Family Members
Anyone who meets the points test, has a skilled occupation on the Skilled Occupation List, and receives an invitation to apply.
The visa application fee is AUD 4,640 for the primary applicant. Additional fees apply for dependents.
Yes, you can include your spouse and dependent children in the same visa application.
You can live, work, and study anywhere in Australia as a permanent resident.
The Subclass 189 Visa Australia is an excellent option for skilled workers seeking permanent residency in Australia. If you need expert assistance, consider consulting the best migration agent to increase your chances of approval!
