Australia is a land of opportunity, offering a high standard of living, a strong economy, and a welcoming multicultural society. For skilled professionals seeking to live and work in Australia permanently, the Skilled Independent Visa Australia (subclass 189) provides one of the most straightforward and rewarding migration pathways—without requiring employer or state sponsorship.
This article covers everything you need to know about the Skilled Independent Visa, including eligibility, the application process, benefits, and how to improve your chances of success.
What Is the Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)?
The Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189) is a points-tested permanent residency visa for skilled workers who are not sponsored by an employer, state, or family member. It allows successful applicants to live and work anywhere in Australia indefinitely.
There are two streams under this visa:
Points-tested stream – For skilled workers who receive an invitation through the SkillSelect system.
New Zealand stream – For eligible New Zealand citizens living in Australia.
In this article, we'll focus on the more common points-tested stream.
Key Benefits of the Skilled Independent Visa Australia
✅ Permanent residency from day one
✅ Live, work, and study anywhere in Australia
✅ Access to public healthcare (Medicare)
✅ Opportunity to sponsor eligible family members
✅ Pathway to Australian citizenship
✅ No requirement for employer, family, or state nomination
Who Can Apply?
To be eligible for the Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189), you must:
Be under 45 years of age at the time of invitation
Have an occupation listed on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL)
Obtain a positive skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority
Score at least 65 points on the points test (higher scores increase your chances)
Have competent English (minimum IELTS 6.0 or equivalent)
Meet health and character requirements
Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect and receive an invitation
How the Points System Works
The Skilled Independent Visa Australia operates on a points-based system. Points are awarded based on factors such as:
Age (maximum 30 points)
English language proficiency (up to 20 points)
Skilled employment experience (up to 20 points)
Educational qualifications (up to 20 points)
Australian study requirements
Partner skills, regional study, community language skills, etc.
Although 65 points is the minimum, competitive scores often start at 85–90+ in popular occupations.
Application Process: Step by Step
1. Check Your Occupation
Ensure your occupation is on the MLTSSL and verify eligibility through a skills assessment.
2. Take an English Language Test
Submit results from an approved test (e.g., IELTS, PTE Academic) to prove English proficiency.
3. Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)
Use the SkillSelect portal to submit your EOI. You will need to provide your qualifications, experience, and points claim.
4. Wait for an Invitation
You must be invited to apply based on your ranking and occupation demand. Invitations are issued monthly.
5. Apply for the Visa
Once invited, you have 60 days to lodge your application online through the Department of Home Affairs website.
6. Health and Character Checks
Undergo medical examinations and submit police clearance certificates.
7. Visa Grant
If approved, you’ll be granted permanent residency and receive your visa details electronically.
Processing Time
Processing times for the Skilled Independent Visa vary depending on occupation and points:
75% of applications: Processed in 7–10 months
90% of applications: Finalized in up to 12 months
Faster decisions are often given to high-demand occupations and complete applications.
Tips to Boost Your Chances
Aim for a higher score (90+ points) by improving English test results or claiming partner points
Ensure accuracy in your EOI to avoid rejection or delays
Submit a complete application with certified documents
Track occupation ceilings and select high-demand jobs
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I include family members in my 189 visa application?
Yes, you can include your partner and dependent children. They will also receive permanent residency if granted.
Q: Can I change states after receiving the visa?
Yes. Unlike state-nominated visas, the Skilled Independent Visa allows you to live and work anywhere in Australia.
Q: What happens if I don’t receive an invitation?
Your EOI remains valid for 2 years. You can update your points and re-submit if needed.
Final Thoughts
The Skilled Independent Visa Australia (subclass 189) offers one of the most flexible and desirable permanent migration options for qualified professionals. It rewards individuals based on their skills, experience, and ability to contribute to the Australian economy—without needing sponsorship or nomination.
If you're serious about building your future in Australia, consider starting with a skills assessment and submitting your Expression of Interest today. For expert support, working with a registered migration agent can maximize your chances of a successful outcome.
