189 Visa
189 Visa Australia: Skilled Independent Visa Explained
If you're a skilled worker dreaming of living and working in Australia permanently, the 189 visa—officially known as the Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189)—could be your ideal pathway. This visa allows invited workers with in-demand skills to migrate independently, without sponsorship from an employer, state, or family member.
In this article, we’ll explore what the 189 visa is, who it’s for, and how to apply successfully.
What Is the 189 Visa?
The 189 visa is a points-tested permanent residency visa for skilled workers who are invited to apply based on their qualifications and experience. It is designed for individuals with occupations on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL), and it allows you to:
Live and work anywhere in Australia permanently
Include eligible family members in your application
Access Medicare (Australia’s public healthcare system)
Apply for Australian citizenship (when eligible)
Types of 189 Visas
There are currently two streams under the 189 visa subclass:
Points-Tested Stream
For skilled workers not sponsored by an employer or relative and not nominated by a state or territory
Requires an Expression of Interest (EOI) and invitation to apply
New Zealand Stream (Closed to new applicants as of 1 July 2023)
Was available for eligible New Zealand citizens living in Australia
Most NZ citizens are now eligible for direct citizenship without needing a visa
Who Can Apply for the 189 Visa?
To be eligible for the Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) – Points-Tested stream, you must:
Have a relevant occupation on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL)
Pass a skills assessment for that occupation
Be under 45 years of age at the time of invitation
Score at least 65 points on the points test
Have competent English (e.g., IELTS 6 in each band or equivalent)
Receive an invitation to apply from the Department of Home Affairs
189 Visa Points Test – How It Works
The points test evaluates factors like:
Age
English language ability
Skilled employment history
Qualifications
Australian study requirements
Partner qualifications
Professional year in Australia
Regional study or community language skills
Tip: The higher your points, the better your chance of receiving an invitation.
How to Apply for a 189 Visa
Here are the key steps:
Check occupation eligibility on the Skilled Occupation List
Get a positive skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority
Sit an English test, if required
Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) via SkillSelect
Wait for an invitation to apply
Lodge your visa application within 60 days of receiving an invitation
Include required documents (identity, skills, employment history, English scores, etc.)
Undergo health and character checks
189 Visa Processing Time
Processing times can vary based on demand and the quality of the application:
75% of applications: processed within 4 months
90% of applications: processed within 7 months
Providing complete, accurate, and well-documented information can speed up the process.
189 Visa Cost
As of 2025, the base application charge is approximately AUD $4,640, with additional fees for:
Secondary applicants
Health checks
Police certificates
English testing (if applicable)
Benefits of the 189 Visa
Once granted, the 189 visa provides you with:
Permanent residency in Australia
Full work and study rights
Access to public healthcare (Medicare)
The ability to sponsor family members
Eligibility to apply for citizenship (after meeting residency requirements)
Final Thoughts
The 189 visa is one of Australia’s most sought-after permanent migration pathways for skilled workers. It offers freedom, flexibility, and a direct route to permanent residency—without the need for sponsorship.
If you're a skilled professional looking for a long-term future in Australia, the subclass 189 visa could be your ticket to a new life down under.
Need help with your 189 visa application?
Get expert guidance to improve your points, prepare your documents, and increase your chances of receiving an invitation.
