The Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) is a top choice for skilled professionals seeking permanent residency in Australia without needing employer, family, or state/territory sponsorship. As part of Australia’s General Skilled Migration (GSM) program, this points-based visa attracts talent to address labour shortages in fields like healthcare, engineering, and IT. With guidance from Australia immigration consultants or a registered migration agent, navigating the process becomes easier. Here’s a complete guide to the Australia skilled migration visa, including eligibility, benefits, and application steps.

What is the Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)?

The Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) grants permanent residency to skilled workers whose occupations are listed on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL). Unlike the Subclass 190, it doesn’t require state nomination, allowing holders to live and work anywhere in Australia. The visa operates under the Points-Tested Stream, targeting professionals with high-demand skills, such as those assessed by Engineers Australia for engineering roles or other relevant authorities.

The visa operates under two main streams:

  1. Points-Tested Stream: For skilled workers who are invited based on their skills, qualifications, and points score.

Benefits of the Subclass 189 Visa

The Skilled Independent Visa offers significant advantages for Australia immigration skilled workers:

  • Permanent Residency: Live, work, and study in Australia indefinitely.
  • Freedom of Location: Unlike state-sponsored visas, you can settle anywhere in Australia without restrictions.
  • Access to Services: Enrol in Medicare, Australia’s public healthcare system, and access certain social security benefits (subject to waiting periods).
  • Family Inclusion: Include your spouse, dependent children, or other eligible dependents in your application.
  • Sponsorship Opportunities: Sponsor eligible relatives for permanent residency.
  • Pathway to Citizenship: Apply for Australian citizenship after meeting residency requirements (typically four years, including one year as a permanent resident).
  • Travel Rights: Travel in and out of Australia for five years from the visa grant date. After this period, you can apply for a Resident Return Visa (Subclass 155 or 157) to maintain travel rights.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the Skilled Independent Visa Subclass 189, applicants must meet specific requirements depending on the stream they are applying for. Below are the key eligibility criteria:

Points-Tested Stream

  1. Age: You must be under 45 years old at the time of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA).

  2. Occupation: Your occupation must be on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL), which is updated regularly to reflect Australia’s labor market needs. Examples include healthcare professionals, engineers, and IT specialists.

  3. Skills Assessment: Obtain a positive skill assessment for the relevant authority, such as Engineers Australia for the Skilled Visa in engineering fields or the Australian Computer Society for IT roles. This ensures your qualifications and experience meet Australian standards.

  4. Points Test: Score at least 65 points on the points test, though higher scores (e.g 80+) increase your chances of receiving an ITA. Points are awarded based on:
    • Age
    • English language proficiency (e.g., IELTS, PTE, TOEFL, or OET)
    • Skilled work experience (in Australia or overseas)
    • Educational qualifications
    • Partner skills or English proficiency
    • Other factors, such as community language skills or study in Australia.
  5. English Proficiency: Demonstrate at least Competent English (e.g., IELTS band 6 or equivalent). Higher proficiency levels (e.g., Proficient or Superior English) earn additional points.
  6. Health and Character Requirements: You and your family members must meet Australia’s health and character standards, which may involve medical examinations and police clearances.
  7. Expression of Interest (EOI): Submit an EOI through the SkillSelect system and receive an ITA. The EOI ranks applicants based on their points score, and invitations are issued periodically during invitation rounds.
  8. No Outstanding Debts: You or your family members must not owe money to the Australian government or have arrangements to repay any debts.
  9. Australian Values Statement: Sign or accept a statement committing to respect Australian laws and values.

Application Process

The Australia skilled migration process for the Subclass 189  involves several steps. Accuracy and completeness are critical to avoid delays or refusals. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

  1. Check Eligibility: Confirm your occupation is on the MLTSSL and calculate your points using the Points Calculator on the Department of Home Affairs website.

  2. Obtain a Skills Assessment: Contact the relevant assessing authority for your occupation to verify your skills and qualifications. For example, Mechanical engineers may need assessment from Engineers Australia, while IT professionals may go through the Australian Computer Society (ACS).

  3. Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI): Create an EOI in the Skill assessment online system. Provide accurate details about your skills, qualifications, work experience, and other relevant factors. There is no fee for submitting an EOI.

  4. Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA): If your EOI ranks high enough, you’ll receive an ITA from the Department of Home Affairs. You have 60 days to submit your visa application after receiving the ITA.

  5. Lodge Your Visa Application: Submit a complete application with all required documents, including:
    • Skills assessment
    • English test results
    • Educational qualifications
    • Work experience references
    • Health and character certificates
    • Passport and identity documents
    • Proof of partner skills (if claiming points).

  6. Pay the Visa Fee: The base application fee for the primary applicant is AUD 4,910 (as of July 2025). Additional fees apply for family members: AUD 2,455 for a partner and AUD 1,225 for each child under 18. Additional costs may include health examinations, police checks, or English language tests for family members.

  7. Await a Decision: Processing times typically range from 2 to 8 months, depending on the completeness of your application, the number of applications, and checks for health, character, or national security. If approved, you’ll receive a visa grant number and start date. If refused, you’ll be notified of the reasons and may appeal to the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT).

A registered migration agent can ensure accuracy and compliance with Australia skilled migration requirements.

Tips for a Successful Application

  1. Maximise Your Points: Aim for a score above 80 to increase your chances of receiving an ITA sooner. Improve your English test results, gain more work experience, or include a skilled partner visa to boost your score.

  2. Choose the Right Occupation: Ensure your nominated occupation aligns with your qualifications and experience. A mismatch (e.g., a geology degree for a management consultant role) may still qualify if you have sufficient relevant work experience, but always verify with the assessing authority.

  3. Prepare Documents Early: Gather all required documents before submitting your EOI to avoid delays after receiving an ITA. Double-check for accuracy to prevent refusals.

  4. Consult a Migration Agent: A registered migration agent can navigate the complex Australia immigration skilled worker policies.

  5. Stay Updated: Regularly check the Department of Home Affairs website for updates to the skilled occupation list, points test, or invitation rounds.

Common Questions About the Subclass 189 Visa

Can I include family members?
Yes, you can include your spouse, dependent children, or other eligible dependents. They must meet health and character requirements, and additional fees apply.

Do I need a job offer?
No, the Subclass 189 visa does not require a job offer. It is designed for independent skilled workers who meet the points and skills criteria.

Can I work in any occupation?
Yes, once granted the visa, you can work in any occupation, not just the one nominated in your application.

What if my visa is refused?
You can appeal to the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT), but no refund is provided for refused applications. Ensure your EOI and application are accurate to minimise risks.

Why Choose the Subclass 189 Visa?

The Skilled Independent Visa Subclass 189 is perfect for skilled professionals seeking flexibility in Australia skilled migration. With no sponsorship needed, it offers freedom to live and work anywhere while contributing to Australia’s economy in high-demand fields like engineering, healthcare, and IT. For expert guidance, consult a registered migration agent or visit the Department of Home Affairs website.

Start your journey to permanent residency with the Skilled Independent Visa today, Aives Australia!