Australia 189 Visa
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Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) – Points Tested
The Subclass 189 visa is a permanent skilled visa for individuals who are not sponsored by an employer, state, or family member. It allows eligible skilled workers to live and work in Australia permanently.
Key Features
- Permanent residency from the start
- No sponsor required
- Work and study anywhere in Australia
- Access to Medicare
- Pathway to Australian citizenship
Basic Eligibility
To apply for this visa, you must:
- Have an occupation listed on the skilled occupation list (MLTSSL)
- Obtain a positive skills assessment
- Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)
- Receive an invitation to apply
- Score at least 65 points in the points test
- Be aged between 18 and 44 years
- Have competent English
- Meet health and character requirements
The process involves the following steps:
The process involves the following steps:
Skills Assessment
- Get your qualifications and experience assessed for your nominated occupation
Expression of Interest (EOI)
- Submit your profile through SkillSelect and receive a points score
Invitation
- If your score is competitive, you will receive an invitation
Visa Application
- Apply within 60 days with all required documents
Points Test Factors
Points are calculated based on:
Visa Benefits
With a Subclass 189 visa, you can:
- Live in Australia permanently
- Work and study without restrictions
- Sponsor eligible family members
- Travel freely for 5 years
- Apply for citizenship (if eligible)
Cost
- Visa fee starts from approximately AUD 4,910
- Additional charges may apply for family members and documents
Location
- You can apply from inside or outside Australia
- You must hold a valid visa if applying from within Australia
Family Members
- Your spouse or partner
- Dependent children
Important Notes
- EOIs remain valid for up to 2 years
- Invitation rounds are competitive and based on ranking
- Visa rules may change depending on government policies