Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)
Key Insights into the Skilled Independent Visa (189) Australia
The Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) is your chance to live and work permanently in Australia as a skilled worker, without needing sponsorship from an employer, family, or a state/territory government.
This “points-tested” stream requires a positive skills assessment for your chosen occupation followed by an Expression of Interest. If successful, you’ll be invited to formally apply for the visa.
Subclass 189 Visa Eligibility Essentials
- have a relevant occupation on the 189-occupation list (MLTSSL)
- have a suitable skills assessment for the occupation
- Lodge an EOI and be invited to apply
- meet the points test pass mark of 65 points
- You must be aged under 45 when we invite you to apply for the visa
- have Competent English
- be invited to apply
- Meet health and character requirements
Can I Apply in Australia or Overseas?
When submitting an EOI, you may be based in or outside of Australia. If you want to live in Australia or overseas, you need to apply for a subclass 189 visa.
If you apply in Australia, you would need to hold a substantive visa or bridging visa, which allows you to remain in Australia while your visa application is processed.
Skilled Independent Subclass 189 Visa Benefits
- Live, study, or work in Australia permanently
- Enrol in Australia's public health care scheme
- Eligible for Australian citizenship
- Help deserving family members to sponsor
- Travel to and from Australia within five years of your visa
Start Your Skilled Independent Visa 189 Application Today
Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) Work Stream
Points Tested Stream
This visa gives immigrants the skills to live and work permanently anywhere in Australia.
- You don’t need a sponsor or a candidate
- You must be invited to apply
- You must be under 45 to receive an invitation
Hong Kong Stream
The visa allows Hong Kong or British (State) passport holders who have demonstrated their commitment to Australia to live and work in Australia permanently.
- You must have a Hong Kong or British Citizen (Domestic) passport
- Certain visa requirements must be met
- You must meet the residency requirements
New Zealand Stream
This visa grants eligible New Zealand citizens who have shown dedication and value to Australia the opportunity to reside and work in the country on a permanent basis.
Begin Your 189 Visa Journey
Steps to Apply for Skilled Independent Visa (189)
If you would like to assess the eligibility of your skilled independent visa application for subclass 189,
please get in touch with an immigration consultant.
1
First appearance assessment
2
Eligibility test
3
Expression of Interest
4
English Language Proficiency
FAQs
What subclass 189 visa do I need to immigrate to Australia?
The Subclass 189 or Independent Professional visa is for professionals who require permanent residence in Australia
Is subclass 189 a permanent Australian residence?
Yes, subclass 189 grants permanent Australian residence.
How do you calculate your points for the Visa Subclass 189?
Need a job offer to apply for the 189 Visa Subclass?
No, a job offer is not required. 189 visa is designed for individuals who have the skills and qualifications needed in Australia but are not sponsored by an employer, state or territory, or family member.
