sc189
Skilled Independent Visa
(POINTS-TESTED STREAM)
The Subclass 189 Skilled Independent visa is a permanent residence visa for skilled workers whose occupations are listed on Australia's eligible skilled occupation list. Applicants must receive an invitation to apply through the SkillSelect system and are not required to be sponsored or nominated by an employer, a state or territory government, or an eligible family member.
The Benefits of Subclass 189 Visa
Long-term Settlement Opportunities
- Live permanently in Australia.
- Work and study anywhere in Australia.
- Access Medicare and other benefits available to eligible permanent residents.
Access Australia's Lifestyle and Benefits
- Enrol in Medicare, Australia's public healthcare system.
- Access healthcare services and community support programs available to eligible residents.
- Improve your English through free classes offered under the Adult Migrant English Program (AMEP), if eligible.
Build a Strong Future for Your Family
- Sponsor eligible family members to migrate to Australia.
- Travel freely to and from Australia for up to 5 years from the date your visa is granted.
- Become eligible to apply for Australian citizenship once you meet the relevant requirements.
Eligibility Criteria for Subclass 189 Visa
To be eligible for the Subclass 189 visa application, you must meet the following core requirements:
Migration Points Requirement
Achieve a minimum of 65 points under the General Skilled Migration (GSM) points test. The actual invitation score may be higher depending on occupation demand and invitation quotas.
Expression of Interest
Applicants must submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect and wait to receive an invitation to apply for the visa.
Age
Be under 45 years of age at the time of receiving an invitation to apply.
Occupation
The nominated occupation must be listed on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL).
Skills Assessment
Obtain a positive skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority for the nominated occupation.
English
Demonstrate at least Competent English. English test results must be valid at the time of invitation and visa application.
Health and Character Requirements
Completing a health examination using a HAP ID.
Providing police clearance certificates from any country where you have lived for a total of 12 months or more during the last 10 years.
Subclass 189 visa Application Process
Self-Check
Check your nominated occupation and points breakdown.
Submit Interest
Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) in SkillSelect.
Wait
Wait for a future invitation to apply for this visa.
Gather Documents
Gather your supporting documents.
Visa Lodgement Stage
Apply for visa within 60 days of invitation to apply visa from SkillSelect.
Wait For Visa Outcome
Monitor the progress of your visa application and provide any additional documents or information requested by the Department of Home Affairs.
COMPARE SKILLED MIGRATION VISAS: SUBCLASS 189/190/491
SUBCLASS 189 VISA APPLICATION FEE & PROCESSING TIME
From AUD 4,910
Visa application charge for the primary applicant.
6–7 Months
WHAT CAN SKILL DIRECT DO FOR YOU?
We walk with you from EOI submission to achieving your Australian residency goals
Eligibility Assessment & Points Calculation
Comprehensively assess your profile and calculate your migration points accurately to ensure all eligible claims are included and supported by evidence.
EOI Strategy & Submission Timing
ITA Monitoring & Document Preparation
Invitation tracking, EOI updates, and full documentation prep for 60-day visa lodgement post-ITA
Handling Requests from the Department Home Affairs
Analyzing the reasons, preparing additional documents, providing further information, and submitting explanations (if required)
ARE YOU READY TO START YOUR MIGRATION JOURNEY?
Book a consultation with Skill Direct to develop a visa strategy tailored to your profile.
Frequently asked questions
Below are some frequently asked questions to help you better understand the Subclass 189 Skilled Independent visa.
1. Is 65 points enough to receive a Subclass 189 invitation?
65 is the minimum eligibility threshold. However, in practice, the invitation score is usually higher and varies significantly depending on your specific occupation.
2. Can I re-apply for subclass 189 if I've been refused before?
It depends on the specific grounds for refusal and your current legal status. Each case requires a comprehensive assessment before re-applying.
3. Can my partner help me get more points?
Yes. If your partner meets the English language requirements or possesses a valid Skills Assessment in a relevant occupation, you can claim additional points toward your application.