Overview
The Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) is a permanent residency visa for points-tested skilled workers who are not sponsored by an employer or family member and are not nominated by a state or territory government. This visa allows you to live and work anywhere in Australia as a permanent resident.
As of 2026, the Australian Department of Home Affairs has shifted to a Quarterly Invitation Model, meaning invitations to apply are now issued in structured rounds four times per year.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Subclass 189 visa, you must:
- Be Invited to Apply: You can only apply for this visa if you receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) after submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI).
- Have a Relevant Occupation: Your occupation must be on the relevant list of eligible skilled occupations.
- Skills Assessment: You must have a suitable skills assessment for your nominated occupation at the time of invitation.
- Age: You must be aged under 45 at the time you are invited to apply.
- English Language: You must demonstrate at least "Competent English" (e.g., IELTS 6.0 in all components or PTE equivalent).
- Points Score: You must score at least 65 points on the points test, though current 2026 trends show that competitive scores for most professions range between 85 and 95+ points.
The Points Test
The Points Test is the primary selection mechanism for the Subclass 189 visa. Points are awarded based on factors such as:
- Age: Maximum points (30) are awarded to those aged 25–32.
- English Proficiency: "Superior English" (IELTS 8.0 or PTE 79+) provides a significant 20-point boost.
- Skilled Employment: Points are available for both Australian and overseas work experience.
- Qualifications: Recognised degrees (Bachelor, Master, or PhD) provide between 15 and 20 points.
- Specialist Education: STEM qualifications from Australian institutions offer additional points.
- Partner Skills: You may claim up to 10 points for a skilled partner or for being a single applicant.
Application Fees (2026)
Visa application charges (VAC) are updated annually. Below are the current standard base charges for 2026:
| Applicant Type | Base Application Charge (AUD) |
| Primary Applicant | $4,910 |
| Additional Applicant (18 and over) | $2,455 |
| Additional Applicant (under 18) | $1,230 |
Note: These fees do not include costs for skills assessments, English language tests, health examinations, or police certificates. A second instalment fee of $4,885 may apply for dependants aged 18 or over who have less than functional English.
Processing Times
Processing times for the Subclass 189 visa vary based on the volume of applications and the complexity of individual cases. In 2026, the Department of Home Affairs aims for the following benchmarks:
- 50% of applications: Processed within 8 months.
- 90% of applications: Processed within 9 months.
Processing may be faster for applicants in high-priority sectors, including Healthcare, Teaching, and Construction Trades.
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Skills Assessment & English Test: Obtain a positive skills assessment and complete your English language proficiency test.
- Submit EOI: Submit an Expression of Interest via the SkillSelect online system.
- Wait for Invitation: Wait for a quarterly invitation round. Ensure your profile remains updated on your mobile or computer.
- Lodge Application: Once invited, you have 60 days to lodge your visa application via ImmiAccount and pay the fees.
- Health & Character: Undergo medical examinations and provide police clearance certificates.
- Visa Grant: Receive your permanent residency visa and begin your life in Australia.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Do I need a job offer to apply for the Subclass 189 visa? A: No. This is an independent visa. You do not require a job offer, an employer sponsor, or state nomination.
Q: Can I include my family in the application? A: Yes, you can include your partner and dependent children in the application at the time of lodgement.
Q: What is the minimum points score required in 2026? A: While the legal minimum is 65 points, the 2026 landscape is highly competitive. Applicants in ICT and Accounting typically need 90+ points, while Healthcare and Trade occupations may receive invitations with scores between 65 and 80.
Q: Can I apply for this visa while I am inside Australia? A: Yes, you can apply from either inside or outside Australia, provided you meet the eligibility criteria and receive an invitation.
