Skilled Visa

Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)

Live and work in Australia permanently — without sponsorship

The Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) is a points-tested permanent visa for skilled workers who are not sponsored by an employer, a state or territory, or a family member.
It allows highly skilled individuals to live, work, and study anywhere in Australia while contributing to the country’s economy and workforce.

Types of Subclass 189 Visas

Points-Tested Stream

For skilled workers who receive an invitation to apply through SkillSelect based on their Expression of Interest (EOI).

New Zealand Stream (Closed to new applications as of 1 July 2023)

Previously available to certain New Zealand citizens living in Australia — now replaced by direct pathways to permanent residence.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189), you must:

• Have an occupation listed on the relevant skilled occupation list.

• Obtain a positive skills assessment for your nominated occupation.

• Be invited to apply through the SkillSelect system.

• Be under 45 years of age at the time of invitation.

• Achieve a minimum score of 65 points (higher scores improve your chances).

• Demonstrate competent English (IELTS 6 or equivalent).

• Meet health and character requirements.

Required Documents

• Passport and ID documents

• Skills assessment report from an approved assessing authority

• English test results (IELTS, PTE, TOEFL, or equivalent)

• Educational and employment evidence

• Expression of Interest (EOI) details

• Health and character certificates

Application Process

1. Check your occupation on the Skilled Occupation List.

2. Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect.

3. Receive an invitation to apply if your score is competitive.

4. Lodge your visa application with all required documents.

5. Undergo medical and police checks.

6. Await the visa decision from the Department of Home Affairs.

Processing Time

• Typical processing: 6–12 months, depending on occupation demand and application completeness.

• High-demand occupations may receive faster invitations.

Costs

• Base application charge: approximately AUD $4,640 (as of 2025).

• Additional fees apply for secondary applicants and dependent children.

• Other costs: English tests, skills assessments, medical exams, and police checks.

Benefits of the 189 Visa

• Permanent residency from the day your visa is granted.

• Work and study anywhere in Australia.

• Access to Medicare (Australia’s public healthcare system).

• Sponsor eligible family members for permanent residence.

• Travel in and out of Australia freely for 5 years.

• Apply for Australian citizenship once eligible.

How We Can Help

Navigating the 189 visa process can be competitive and complex. Our registered migration agents can:

• Assess your eligibility and calculate your points score.

• Help you prepare a strong Expression of Interest (EOI).

• Guide you through skills assessment and document preparation.

• Handle your visa application and communication with the Department of Home Affairs.

• Improve your chances of receiving an invitation and approval quickly.

Ready to begin your Australian dream?

Build your future in Australia with confidence.
Book a consultation today — our expert migration team will guide you every step of the way toward your Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189).