Skilled Independent Visa
PermanentSkilled Independent visa (subclass 189) - Points-Tested Stream
Duration
Permanent
Processing
Median times are currently around 8 to 14 months after an invitation is received.
Family
Included
PR Pathway
Direct PR
Overview
The subclass 189 visa is a permanent visa for points-tested skilled workers who are not sponsored by an employer or family member, or nominated by a state or territory government. Because it is highly competitive, this visa is designed for applicants who can achieve a high score on the points test.
Key Benefits
- Ultimate Independence: No sponsorship or nomination from an employer or state is required.
- Permanent Residency: Grants you and your included family members permanent residency in Australia.
- Unrestricted Rights: Live, work, and study anywhere in Australia without restriction.
- Medicare Access: Enrol in Australia's public healthcare scheme.
- Pathway to Citizenship: Apply for Australian citizenship once you meet the residency requirements.
Eligibility Criteria
- 1Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect and be invited to apply.
- 2Have an occupation on the relevant skilled occupation list for this visa subclass.
- 3Have a suitable (positive) skills assessment for that occupation.
- 4Be under 45 years of age at the time you receive the invitation to apply.
- 5Achieve at least the minimum required points score (currently 65), though a much higher score is typically needed to be competitive.
- 6Meet the minimum English language, health, and character requirements.
Application Process
Skills Assessment
Complete assessment with relevant authority
English Test
Take IELTS, PTE or other approved test
EOI Submission
Submit Expression of Interest in SkillSelect
Wait for Invitation
Monitor invitation rounds (monthly)
Visa Application
Apply within 60 days of invitation
Document Upload
Provide all supporting documents
Health & Character
Complete medical and police checks
Visa Decision
Receive your permanent visa
Estimated Costs
- Visa applicationFrom $4,640
- Additional applicant 18+From $2,320
- Additional applicant <18From $1,160
- Skills assessmentFrom $500-$3,000
- English testFrom $400-$500
Requirements
English
You must have at least 'Competent English' (e.g., IELTS 6.0 in all bands), but higher scores are necessary to claim more points.
Age
Maximum points (30) are awarded to applicants aged 25-32. No points are awarded for age 45 or over.
Points
While the minimum threshold to lodge an EOI is 65 points, invitation rounds are highly competitive. Successful candidates often have scores of 85-90 or higher.
Your Rights
Work
Unrestricted work rights
Study
Yes, with access to government support
Travel
5 years multiple entry from grant
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