Overview
The Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) is a permanent residency visa for skilled workers who are not sponsored by an employer, state or territory government, or family member. It is designed for individuals with qualifications and experience in occupations listed on Australia’s skilled occupation list.
This visa allows you to:
- Live and work anywhere in Australia indefinitely
- Access Medicare, Australia’s public health system
- Sponsor eligible family members for permanent residency
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for a Subclass 189 visa, you must:
- Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect and receive an invitation
- Be under 45 years of age at the time of invitation
- Nominate an occupation on the relevant skilled occupation list
- Have a suitable skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority
- Meet the points test requirement (currently a minimum of 65 points)
- Demonstrate competent English, usually via an approved language test
- Satisfy health and character requirements under Australian law
Points are awarded for:
- Age
- English language ability
- Skilled employment experience
- Educational qualifications
- Specialist education
- Partner skills
- Australian study requirements
Application Process
- Check your eligibility using the points calculator and occupation list
- Complete a skills assessment with the relevant assessing authority
- Submit an EOI through SkillSelect
- Wait for an invitation to apply for the visa
- Prepare and lodge your application online within 60 days of invitation
- Upload supporting documents, including identity, skills assessment, English test results, and health checks
- Pay the visa application charge and submit your application
- Monitor your application status until a decision is made
Cost and Processing Time
From AUD 4910（Update date：2025.07）
Processing Time: Most Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) applications are processed within approximately 8–12 months, but this can vary depending on your circumstances and demand
Conditions and Obligations
- You can live, work, and study anywhere in Australia
- You may enrol in Medicare, Australia’s public health system
- You must comply with Australian laws and maintain accurate information with the Department of Home Affairs
- Travel is unlimited for five years from the date of grant; after that, you may need a Resident Return Visa to re-enter Australia
- If you include family members, they must also meet health and character requirements
Common Questions
Do I need a job offer to apply?
No, the Subclass 189 visa does not require employer sponsorship.
Can I include family members?
Yes, you can include your partner and dependent children in your application.
What happens if my points change after submitting an EOI?
Your EOI is locked once you receive an invitation. You can update details if you submit a new EOI later.
Is there a cap on invitations?
Yes, invitations are issued periodically based on occupation ceilings and demand.
Helpful Tips
- Double-check your points calculation before submitting your EOI
- Ensure your skills assessment is valid at the time of invitation
- Prepare documents early, especially English test results and health checks
- Respond promptly to any requests from the Department to avoid delays
- Consider professional migration advice if your case is complex or you are unsure about eligibility
Ready to take the next step?
If you need personalised guidance or assistance with your application, contact Aussie Immigration Services today. Our experienced team can help you navigate the process with confidence.
