Subclass 189 Skilled Independent Visa
The Skilled Independent visa (Subclass 189) is a points-tested permanent residency visa for skilled workers who do not require employer sponsorship, state nomination or family sponsorship.
This visa is highly competitive and is generally suitable for applicants with strong qualifications, relevant skilled work experience, a positive skills assessment and a competitive points score.
- Permanent residency visa
- No employer or state sponsorship required
- Points-tested skilled migration pathway
- Invitation through SkillSelect required
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 want to live and work permanently in Australia without requiring sponsorship from an employer, state government or family member.
This visa is highly competitive and is generally suitable for applicants with strong qualifications, relevant skilled work experience, a positive skills assessment and competitive points.
Who Can Apply?
To be eligible, applicants generally need:
- Age under 45 at the time of invitation
- Competent English or higher
- A suitable occupation on the relevant skilled occupation list
- A positive skills assessment for the nominated occupation
- At least 65 points, noting that higher scores may be required to receive an invitation
- An invitation to apply through SkillSelect
Occupation Requirements
Your nominated occupation must appear on the relevant skilled occupation list for the Subclass 189 visa.
You can explore eligible occupations here: Skilled Occupation List
Skills Assessment
Before submitting an Expression of Interest, most applicants must obtain a positive skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority.
Different occupations are assessed by different authorities such as ACS, VETASSESS, Engineers Australia, TRA, AHPRA and others.
How to Apply
- Confirm your occupation eligibility
- Complete your skills assessment
- Sit an English test, if required
- Calculate your points
- Submit an Expression of Interest
- Wait for an invitation to apply
- Lodge your visa application with supporting documents
Understanding the Points Test
The Subclass 189 visa is points-tested. Points may be awarded based on factors such as:
- Age
- English language ability
- Overseas skilled work experience
- Australian skilled work experience
- Educational qualifications
- Australian study
- Partner skills
- NAATI Credentialed Community Language points
Although 65 points is the minimum threshold, receiving an invitation may require a higher score depending on invitation rounds and occupation demand.
Key Benefits
- Permanent residency from visa grant
- No employer sponsorship required
- No state or territory nomination required
- Live and work anywhere in Australia
- Access Medicare
- Include eligible family members
- Pathway to Australian citizenship, subject to eligibility
Common Reasons Applicants Struggle
Many applicants do not struggle because the visa is impossible; they struggle because the pathway requires careful timing, evidence and strategy.
- The nominated occupation is not suitable for the applicant’s qualifications or work history
- The skills assessment is refused or delayed
- The applicant claims work experience that is not accepted as skilled employment
- The English test score is not high enough to make the points score competitive
- The Expression of Interest is submitted with incorrect or unsupported claims
- The applicant meets 65 points but is not competitive enough to receive an invitation
When Professional Advice May Help
Professional advice may be useful if you are unsure about your occupation, skills assessment pathway, points claim, English score, work experience evidence or whether Subclass 189 is the best option compared with Subclass 190 or Subclass 491.
A carefully prepared strategy can help applicants understand whether they should proceed with Subclass 189, improve their points first, consider state nomination, or explore employer-sponsored pathways.
Related Skilled Migration Resources
Skilled Occupation List
Check whether your occupation may be relevant to Australian skilled migration pathways.
Check Occupation ListSkilled Migration Program
Explore skilled visa pathways including Subclass 189, 190 and 491.
Explore Skilled MigrationVisa Application Charges and Processing Times
Visa application charges and processing times change regularly. Applicants should review the latest official information before lodging an application.
Official Visa Application Charges
Check the latest Subclass 189 visa application charges published by the Department of Home Affairs.
View Current Visa ChargesOfficial Visa Processing Times
Processing times vary depending on the application, supporting documents and Department workload.
View Processing TimesFrequently Asked Questions
How many points do I need for a Subclass 189 visa?
The minimum points threshold is 65. However, meeting 65 points does not guarantee an invitation. Some occupations may require significantly higher scores depending on invitation rounds and competition.
Do I need employer sponsorship for the 189 visa?
No. The Subclass 189 visa does not require employer sponsorship, state nomination or family sponsorship. Applicants are invited through SkillSelect based on points, occupation and invitation settings.
Why is Subclass 189 considered highly competitive?
Subclass 189 does not depend on employer or state sponsorship, so many skilled applicants compete for invitation places. Higher points, strong English results and occupation demand can significantly affect invitation prospects.
Should I consider Subclass 190 or 491 if I am not invited for Subclass 189?
Yes. Some applicants may have stronger prospects through Subclass 190 state nomination or Subclass 491 regional nomination if their occupation and circumstances align with state or regional requirements.
Can I include my family members in a Subclass 189 application?
Eligible family members may generally be included in the application, provided they meet the relevant health, character and visa requirements.
Book a Skilled Visa Consultation
Need help with your occupation, skills assessment, points score or visa strategy?
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