Skilled Independent Visa
(Subclass 189)
The Subclass 189 is for applicants who want to apply for permanent residency (PR) and can meet the points test and other eligibility criteria.
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About the 189 Visa
The 189 Visa has two streams the Points Tested Stream and the Hong Kong Stream.
Hong Kong Stream – Eligible Hong Kong or British National (Overseas) passport holders who have demonstrated commitment to Australia can apply under the Hong Kong Stream. You must have been usually resident in Australia for a continuous period of at least 4 years immediately before the date of your application and held an eligible visa such as a subclass 457, 482 or 485 visa.
Points Tested Stream – To apply under the points tested stream you must first submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect. If you meet the required points and other criteria, you may receive an invitation to apply for this visa.
Who can apply for the 189 Visa?
- Are under 45 years old at the time of invitation
- Have a positive skills assessment in an eligible occupation
- Have competent English (e.g., IELTS 6.0 or equivalent)
- Have submitted an Expression of Interest (EOI) and received an Invitation to Apply (ITA)
- Meet health and character requirements
- Meet the minimum 65 points requirement on the points test.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Check your eligibility, complete your skills assessment and English test
- If your occupation in on Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) you can potentially apply for the 189 visa. View the Skilled Occupations List.
- Apply for a Skills Assessment from the relevant authority. Need help with your skills assessment? Contact us for expert guidance.
- Sit an English test to maximise your points score.
- Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) on SkillSelect
- Enter your personal and professional details.
- Wait for Invitation to Apply (ITA) (based on points and occupation demand).
- Receive and invitation and lodge your visa application
- Apply within 60 days of receiving your ITA.
- Submit police clearances, health check, and required documents.
- Visa grant and moving to Australia
- Once granted, move to Australia anytime before the first entry deadline.
- Enjoy permanent residency benefits, including Medicare and work rights.
Ready to start the process? Then book our consultation service
Your EOI ranking is based on the points test. Here is a breakdown:
Criteria Points
Age (Under 45) Up to 30
English Proficiency Up to 20
Work Experience Up to 20
Education Level Up to 20
Partner Skills Up to 10
Study in Australia 5
Study in Regional Australia 5
Specialist Educational Qualifications 10
Professional year in Australia 5
NAATI 5
The time it takes to process the 189 Visa depends on various factors. The skills assessment process can range from 10 days to several months, depending on the assessing authority. Depending on your occupation and points score, you could receive an invitation to apply within days or it may take several months. Invitations are issued to applicants with the highest points in their occupation. For current visa processing times please refer to the information on the Department of Home Affairs website.
Department of Home Affairs Visa Application Fees: $4,770 (primary applicant), $2,385 (each secondary applicant over 18), $1,190 (each secondary applicant under 18).
Other Costs: Fees for skills assessments, English language tests, health examinations, police checks, translations, etc., as applicable.
Professional Fees: Contact us for a fee quote at 0415419414
The Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) offers numerous benefits for you and your family, including:
- Permanent Residency: Live and work anywhere in Australia.
- Education: Access to study opportunities in Australia.
- Healthcare: Enrol in Medicare, Australia’s healthcare system.
- Social Security: Access certain social security payments.
- Citizenship: Apply for Australian citizenship (subject to meeting residency criteria).
- Family Sponsorship: Sponsor eligible family members for permanent residency.
- Occupation Identification: Assisting you in selecting the most suitable occupation from the relevant skilled occupation list.
- Points Calculation: Evaluating your qualifications, work experience, and other factors to accurately calculate your points score.
- Points Improvement Strategies: Providing insights on how to enhance your points score, such as improving English proficiency or gaining additional work experience.
- Eligibility Assessment: Determining your eligibility for the Subclass 189 visa based on the latest immigration criteria.
- Skills Assessment Preparation: Preparing and lodging your skills assessment with the appropriate assessing authority.
- Expression of Interest (EOI) Submission: Submitting your EOI through SkillSelect.
- Visa Application Preparation and Lodgement: Preparing and lodging your visa application, ensuring all required documents are included.
- Ongoing Support: Offering continuous assistance and updates throughout the application process to ensure a smooth experience.
Benefits of the 189 visa
Permanent Residency
Live and work anywhere in Australia.
Education
Access to study opportunities in Australia.
Healthcare
Enrol in Medicare, Australia’s healthcare system.
Social Security
Access certain social security payments.
Citizenship
Apply for Australian citizenship (subject to meeting residency criteria).
Family Sponsorship
Sponsor eligible family members for permanent residency.
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