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What is the Subclass 189 Visa?

The Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) is a points-based permanent residence visa for skilled workers who are not sponsored by an employer, state or territory, or family member. It's designed to attract highly skilled individuals who can contribute to Australia's economy.

The Basics

The Subclass 189 is one of Australia's most sought-after visa pathways because it offers:

Complete Independence: Unlike other visa types, you don't need anyone to sponsor or nominate you. Your skills, qualifications, and experience are enough!

Key Characteristics

1. Permanent Residence Status

This visa grants you permanent residence in Australia, which means:

  • You can stay in Australia indefinitely
  • No visa renewals required (though you'll need to renew your travel facility after 5 years)
  • Full protection under Australian law
  • Pathway to Australian citizenship

2. Points-Based System

Your eligibility is determined by a points test that evaluates:

  • Age: Younger applicants receive more points
  • English proficiency: Higher language skills = more points
  • Work experience: Both Australian and overseas experience count
  • Education: Higher qualifications earn more points
  • Other factors: Partner skills, Australian study, professional year, etc.
Minimum Requirement: You need at least 65 points to be eligible to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI). However, most invited applicants have much higher scores (typically 80-90+).

3. Occupation-Based

Your nominated occupation must be on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL). This list contains occupations that Australia needs for its long-term economic development.

Before applying, you must have your skills assessed by the relevant assessing authority for your occupation. This ensures your qualifications and experience meet Australian standards.

4. Invitation-Only Process

You cannot apply directly for this visa. Instead, you must:

  1. Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect
  2. Wait to receive an invitation from the Department of Home Affairs
  3. Apply for the visa within 60 days of receiving your invitation
?? Important: Submitting an EOI does not guarantee an invitation. Invitations are issued based on your points score and the demand for your occupation.

What Makes It "Independent"?

The term "independent" means you're applying based solely on your own merits without needing:

  • ? Employer sponsorship (unlike subclass 186)
  • ? State or territory nomination (unlike subclass 190)
  • ? Family member sponsorship (unlike subclass 491)

This independence comes with a trade-off: you need higher points compared to other skilled visas because you don't receive the bonus points that come with sponsorship.

Who Manages This Visa?

The Subclass 189 visa is managed by the Australian Department of Home Affairs. They set the rules, process applications, and issue invitations based on Australia's migration program priorities.

Understanding the Purpose

Australia created this visa pathway to:

  • Address skill shortages in the Australian labor market
  • Attract young, highly skilled professionals
  • Bring in workers who can immediately contribute to the economy
  • Build a diverse, skilled population for long-term prosperity
By the Numbers: The Subclass 189 is part of Australia's Skill Stream, which accounts for about two-thirds of Australia's permanent migration program.

Ready to Learn More?

Now that you understand what the Subclass 189 visa is, let's explore the specific benefits it offers!

Next: Benefits ?