Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)

Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)

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 operates on a points-based system and grants the freedom to live and work anywhere in Australia.

Key Benefits

✅ Permanent Residency: Provides the right to live, work, and study in Australia indefinitely.
✅ No Sponsorship Needed: No employer, state, or family nomination required.
✅ Medicare Access: Grants eligibility for Australia’s public healthcare system.
✅ Include Family Members: Allows the inclusion of spouses and dependent children in the application.
✅ Pathway to Citizenship: Can apply for Australian citizenship after meeting residency requirements.

Eligibility Requirements

  • Occupation must be listed on the Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL).
  • Must submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect and receive an invitation to apply.
  • Must score at least 65 points on the points test (higher scores increase selection chances).
  • Must be under 45 years old at the time of invitation.
  • Must meet English language proficiency requirements.
  • Must pass health and character assessments.

    Application Process

    1. Confirm Occupation Eligibility: Ensure your job is listed on the MLTSSL.
    2. Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI): Register via SkillSelect and wait for an invitation to apply (ITA).
    3. Receive an Invitation: Applicants with the highest points are prioritized.
    4. Lodge the Visa Application: Submit required documents and pay the necessary fees.
    5. Processing & Approval: Once granted, the visa holder becomes a permanent resident of Australia.

    Points Test – How Points Are Awarded

    Criteria Maximum Points
    Age (25-32 years) 30 points
    English Proficiency (Superior level) 20 points
    Skilled Work Experience (8+ years overseas) 15 points
    Australian Work Experience (5+ years) 20 points
    Educational Qualification (PhD or equivalent) 20 points
    Australian Study 5 points
    Partner Skills (Skilled spouse or partner) 10 points
    STEM Qualification / Regional Study 10 points

    A minimum of 65 points is required, but a higher score increases the chances of receiving an invitation.

    Comparison: Subclass 189 vs. Other Skilled Visas

    Feature Subclass 189 (Independent) Subclass 190 (State Nominated) Subclass 491 (Regional)
    Sponsorship Required No Requires state/territory nomination Requires state or family nomination
    Residency Type Permanent Permanent Temporary (5 years)
    Points Requirement 65+ 65+ (State nomination adds 5 points) 65+ (Regional nomination adds 15 points)
    Work & Study Restrictions None Must live in sponsoring state Must live in a regional area
    Pathway to PR Immediate PR Immediate PR PR after 3 years (Subclass 191)