sc189
Skilled Independent Visa
(POINTS-TESTED STREAM)
The Subclass 189 Skilled Independent Visa is a permanent visa designed for skilled workers whose occupations are listed on Australia's eligible skilled occupation lists. Applicants can apply independently through the SkillSelect system without requiring sponsorship from an employer, a state or territory government, or an eligible family member.
Benefits of the Subclass 189 Visa
Permanent Residency in Australia
- Live and work in Australia permanently.
- Study at any Australian educational institution.
- Enjoy many of the same rights and benefits as Australian citizens across various aspects of life, subject to eligibility requirements
Access to Australia's Social Benefits
- Enrol in Medicare, Australia's public healthcare system.
- Access healthcare services and community support programs available to eligible residents.
- Attend free English language classes through the Adult Migrant English Program (AMEP), if eligible.
Greater Opportunities for Your Family's Future
- Include eligible family members in your visa application or sponsor eligible relatives 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 all requirements are met.
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 points 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
Complete the required health examinations using your HAP ID.
If you have lived in any country for 12 months or more within the last 10 years, you will be required to provide a police clearance certificate from that country.
Subclass 189 visa Application Process
Self-Check
Check your nominated occupation and points breakdown.
Submit
Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) in SkillSelect.
Wait
Wait for an invitation from the Department of Home Affairs.
Gather
Gather your supporting documents.
Apply
Apply for visa within 60 days of invitation to apply visa from SkillSelect.
Wait
Follow your application progress and respond to any requests for further information from DHA
SUBCLASS 189 VS SUBCLASS 190 VS SUBCLASS 491
SUBCLASS 189 VISA FEES AND PROCESSING TIMES
From AUD 4,910
Visa application charge for the primary applicant.
Approximately 6–7 Months
HOW CAN SKILL DIRECT HELP YOU?
We support you throughout your journey, from lodging your EOI to achieving your goal of Australian permanent residency.
Assess Your Eligibility and Migration Points
Carefully review your profile and calculate your migration points accurately to ensure all eligible claims are included and supported by evidence.
Develop an EOI Strategy and Timing Plan
Await ITA and prepare your application.
Follow invitation rounds and update your EOI if required. Upon receiving an ITA, prepare and lodge your application within 60 days.
Handling Requests from DHA
Analyse the reasons, prepare additional documentsand respond to requests for further information, including 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.