Build Your Future in Australia With a Skilled Migration Pathway
The Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) is a points-tested pathway for eligible skilled professionals who want to build their future in Australia without employer or state/territory sponsorship. It can provide a pathway to permanent residence for applicants who meet the relevant eligibility requirements and receive an invitation to apply.
Why Skilled Independent Visa?
The Subclass 189 pathway can be an attractive option for skilled professionals who want greater flexibility in planning their future in Australia.
It may allow eligible applicants to:
- Pursue permanent residence through a direct skilled migration pathway
- Live and work anywhere in Australia without employer or state sponsorship
- Build their career and personal future in Australia with complete independence
- Include eligible family members in their permanent residency application
- Enjoy greater flexibility when planning their long-term Australian future
- Work towards Australian citizenship when eligible
Because skilled migration requirements and invitation outcomes can vary, understanding your individual points position before applying is vital.
Key Benefits of Subclass 189
Explore some of the key advantages this skilled migration pathway may offer eligible applicants.
Permanent Residence
A successful Subclass 189 application provides a direct grant of Australian permanent residence from day one.
Career Flexibility
Build your professional future across any Australian industry without depending on sponsorship from a particular employer.
Live & Study
Eligible permanent residents can live, work and study anywhere across Australia with full domestic rights and Medicare access.
Include Your Family
Eligible family members (partner and dependent children) may be included in the application subject to the applicable requirements.
Future Citizenship
Permanent residents can pursue Australian citizenship once they satisfy the standard general residence criteria.
Long-Term Future
Permanent residence provides lifelong stability and freedom when planning your family's future in Australia.
Things To Do Before Applying For The Visa
Preparing your skilled migration application carefully can help you understand your position before moving forward.
Review Your Occupation
Check whether your occupation is eligible on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) and identify the assessing authority.
Understand Your Skills Assessment
Determine the specific assessment guidelines for your occupation and compile all required qualification and employment evidence.
Check Your English
Review the English language requirements and aim for Proficient (+10 pts) or Superior (+20 pts) English to maximize your score.
Assess Your Points
Calculate your total points based on age, qualifications, skilled employment, Australian study, partner skills, and CCL credentials.
Prepare Your Expression Of Interest
An Expression of Interest through SkillSelect provides verified information about your skilled migration profile.
Wait For An Invitation
An EOI does not guarantee an invitation. Invitation outcomes depend on Department invitation rounds, occupation quotas, and points competition.
Prepare & Lodge Your Visa Application
If invited by the Department, prepare and lodge your complete permanent residency application with all supporting evidence within 60 days.
General Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the Skilled Independent Visa, applicants generally need to satisfy a range of requirements.
Important: Eligibility is assessed according to the requirements and program settings that apply to your circumstances at the relevant time of invitation.
Health & Character Requirements
Health and character requirements form an important part of preparing a complete visa application.
Health Requirements
Applicants and accompanying family members may be required to complete medical examinations through an approved medical provider. Requirements can vary depending on individual circumstances and travel history.
Character Requirements
Applicants must provide police certificates for each country where they have resided for 12 months or more over the past 10 years, ensuring all disclosure is complete and truthful.
Evidence Of English Language Ability
English language ability can be an important part of your skilled migration strategy and may significantly affect your points position.
Competent English
Minimum standard for eligibility
Proficient English
IELTS 7 / PTE 65 in all bands
Superior English
IELTS 8 / PTE 79 in all bands
Accepted English Testing Options:
Note: Accepted English tests and score requirements can change. Applicants should confirm the current requirements applicable to their visa application before sitting an exam.
Ready to Explore Your Independent Skilled Pathway?
Speak with our registered migration agents to evaluate your points score and explore your eligibility for Subclass 189.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)?
The Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) is a points-tested skilled migration pathway for eligible skilled workers who are not sponsored by an Australian employer or state or territory government.
Who can apply for Subclass 189?
Eligible professionals under 45 years of age who have an occupation on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL), a positive Skills Assessment, at least Competent English, and a minimum of 65 points in SkillSelect.
Do I need an Australian job offer for Subclass 189?
No. Subclass 189 is an independent visa that does not require an employment offer, job sponsorship, or state/territory government nomination.
How does the Subclass 189 points system work?
Points are calculated based on your age, English language ability, skilled employment experience in Australia and overseas, educational qualifications, Australian study, partner skills, and CCL credentials.
Is a Skills Assessment required?
Yes. A suitable positive Skills Assessment issued by the relevant assessing authority for your nominated occupation is mandatory before you can submit an Expression of Interest (EOI).
