General Skilled Visa Types
Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) – Live and Work in Australia Permanently
The Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) is a permanent visa that allows highly skilled workers to live and work anywhere in Australia without requiring a sponsor or employer. If you have the qualifications, skills, and work experience that Australia needs, this visa can be your direct pathway to permanent residency.
At Maven Consulting Group Melbourne, we specialise in helping skilled professionals navigate the complex visa process and achieve their migration goals with confidence.
What Is the Subclass 189 Visa?
The Subclass 189 visa is part of Australia’s General Skilled Migration (GSM) program. It is a points-tested permanent residency visa, which means your eligibility is determined by your age, qualifications, work experience, English language ability, and other factors.
Unlike many other visas, the Subclass 189 does not require a job offer, sponsor, or state/territory nomination—making it one of the most independent pathways to Australian permanent residency.
Who Can Apply — Eligibility Requirements
- To be eligible for the Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189), you must:
- Have an occupation listed on the relevant Skilled Occupation List.
- Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through Skill Select and receive an invitation to apply.
- Be under 45 years of age when invited.
- Achieve a minimum of 65 points on the points test (higher points increase your chances of invitation).
- Demonstrate competent English (through IELTS, PTE, or equivalent).
- Obtain a positive skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority for your occupation.
- Meet the health and character requirements set by the Department of Home Affairs.
Key Benefits of the Subclass 189 Visa
Permanent Residency: Live and work in Australia indefinitely.
Work and Study Freedom: No restrictions on where you work or study.
Pathway to Citizenship: Apply for Australian citizenship once eligible.
Family Sponsorship: Sponsor eligible family members to join you.
Access Benefits: Enrol in Medicare and enjoy social security benefits once eligible.
Flexibility: No employer or state sponsorship required.
Step-by-Step Process
- Check Your Occupation: Confirm it is on the Skilled Occupation List.
- Skills Assessment: Apply through the relevant assessing authority.
- Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI): Lodge your profile through SkillSelect.
- Invitation to Apply: Wait for the Department of Home Affairs to issue an invitation.
- Lodge Your Visa Application: Submit all documents within the specified timeframe.
- Visa Decision: If granted, you will become a permanent resident of Australia.
The Skilled Independent Visa is highly competitive and requires careful preparation. Small mistakes in your EOI, points claim, or skills assessment can lead to rejection or long delays.
At Maven Consulting Group Melbourne, we provide:
- Accurate assessment of your eligibility and points score.
- Expert guidance on preparing your skills assessment.
- Assistance in submitting a strong Expression of Interest (EOI).
- Careful document preparation and visa lodgment.
- Ongoing updates and support throughout the entire process.
With our experience and trusted advice, you can move forward with confidence and increase your chances of securing permanent residency in Australia.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
How many points do I need for a 189 visa?
The minimum is 65 points, but in practice, higher scores are usually required to receive an invitation due to competition.
-
How long does the 189 visa process take?
Processing times vary, but on average it can take 12 to 24 months, depending on your occupation, points score, and demand.
-
Do I need a job offer for the 189 visa?
No. This visa is completely independent—you don’t need an employer, sponsor, or state nomination.
-
Can my family be included in the application?
Yes. You can include eligible family members, such as your partner and dependent children, in your application.
-
Is this visa permanent?
Yes. Once granted, the Subclass 189 visa gives you permanent residency, with a 5-year travel facility and the option to apply for citizenship once eligible.