Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189)
The Subclass 189 Skilled Independent Visa is a points-tested permanent visa that allows skilled professionals to live and work anywhere in Australia without the need for sponsorship or nomination.
If you possess skills that are in demand in Australia, this visa gives you a direct pathway to permanent residency (PR) and citizenship.
With this visa, you can:
- Stay in Australia permanently
- Work and study anywhere in Australia
- Enrol in Medicare, Australia’s public healthcare system
- Sponsor eligible relatives for migration
- Travel freely for 5 years from visa grant
- Apply for Australian citizenship, if eligible
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for a Subclass 189 visa, you must:
- Be invited to apply through SkillSelect
- Have a positive skills assessment for an occupation on the Skilled Occupation List
- Be under 45 years of age at the time of invitation
- Score at least 65 points on the points test
- Have at least Competent English
- Meet health and character requirements
- Have no outstanding debts to the Australian Government
- Sign the Australian Values Statement
Points Test Overview
Your eligibility is determined by a points system. Points are awarded for:
- Age
- English language ability
- Skilled work experience (in Australia or overseas)
- Educational qualifications
- Partner’s qualifications and English skills
- Australian study or employment
Use our 189 Skilled Independent Visa Points Calculator to check your estimated score.
Application Process
Applying for the Subclass 189 visa involves these key steps:
Step 1 – Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)
- Lodge an EOI through SkillSelect to express your interest in applying.
Step 2 – Receive an Invitation
- The Department of Home Affairs ranks EOIs and invites top candidates to apply.
Step 3 – Gather Documents
- Prepare and submit documents supporting your skills, English level, identity, and experience.
Step 4 – Apply for the Visa
- You have 60 days from your invitation date to apply online — either from inside or outside Australia.
Step 5 – Await Decision
- The Department will assess your application and inform you of the outcome in writing.
Including Family Members
You can include eligible family members such as your:
- Partner or spouse
- Dependent children
All family members must meet health and character requirements.
Visa Costs
- Main applicant: AUD 4,910
- Additional applicant charges: Apply per family member
- Second instalment (if required): AUD 4,885 (for dependants 18+ with less than functional English)
Additional costs may apply for health exams, police checks, or biometrics.
Processing Time
Visa processing times vary based on:
- Application completeness
- Response times to requests for more information
- Health, character, and background checks
- Available migration program places
Check the latest average processing times on the Home Affairs website.
Travel and Residence Rights
- This is a permanent visa, allowing you to stay indefinitely.
- You can travel freely for 5 years from visa grant.
- After 5 years, you’ll need a Resident Return Visa (RRV) to re-enter Australia.
- You become a permanent resident on the day your visa is granted (if in Australia), or the day you enter Australia (if offshore).
Pathway to Australian Citizenship
After meeting residency and eligibility requirements, you can apply for Australian citizenship.
Permanent residency starts:
- On the visa grant date (if you were in Australia), or
- On your first entry date (if granted offshore).
Why Choose A2MS
At A2MS (Aussie Academics & Migration Services), we simplify your permanent residency (PR) journey.
Our experienced registered migration professionals will:
- Assess your eligibility and points
- Help you lodge your Expression of Interest (EOI)
- Guide you through document preparation and submission
- Manage your visa application from start to finish
Whether you’re in Australia or overseas, we’ll help you achieve your dream of Australian permanent residency with confidence and clarity.
Contact Aussie Academics and Migration Services today to get started on your Subclass 189 visa journey.
