Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)
Are you a skilled professional looking for permanent residency in Australia without needing sponsorship? Apply for Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) and get the opportunity to live, work, and study indefinitely anywhere in Australia.
Why Skilled Independent Visa?
The Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) is a point-based permanent residency visa for skilled workers who are not sponsored by an employer, state/territory government, or family. It targets overseas skilled individuals based on Australia's skill needs. As of the 2025-26 program year, invitations are issued quarterly via SkillSelect for predictable allocation, focusing on critical shortages in healthcare, engineering, education, and trades. The Skill stream has 132,200 places overall.
Benefits Of Having A Skilled Independent Visa
Enjoy comprehensive benefits with permanent residency in Australia
Live, Study, Work Indefinitely
Live, study, or work in Australia for an indefinite period
Medicare Access
Access to Medicare and other public services
Australian Citizenship
Eligibility for Australian citizenship after 4 years (including 12 months as PR)
Sponsor Relatives
Sponsor eligible relatives for PR
Travel Freedom
Multiple entry travel facility for 5 years (renewable)
No Regional Restrictions
No regional living or state commitments required
Things To Do Before Applying For The Visa
To apply, submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) via SkillSelect and achieve at least 65 points. Due to competition, aim for 75–85+ points.
Points Allocation System
Core Factors
- • Age (max 30 points for 25-32 years)
- • English proficiency (up to 20 points for Superior)
- • Skilled employment (up to 20 points for 8+ years experience)
- • Educational qualifications (up to 20 points for PhD)
Additional Points
- • Australian study (5 points for 2 years full-time)
- • Professional Year in Australia (5 points)
- • Community language (5 points)
- • Partner skills (up to 10 points)
Note: Use the official Points Calculator on the Department of Home Affairs website. Update EOI regularly before quarterly rounds.
General Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for this visa, you must meet the following requirements
Age Requirement
Be under 45 years at invitation
Occupation List
Nominate an occupation on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) (priority: healthcare like Registered Nurses, trades like Electricians, STEM/engineering)
English Proficiency
Have at least Competent English (IELTS 6.0 each band or equivalent), or equivalent in other tests like PTE (50 each) or TOEFL iBT (18/13/21/12)
Skills Assessment
Obtain a positive skills assessment from the relevant authority
Points Test
Score at least 65 points on the points test (higher for invitation)
Health & Character
Meet health and character requirements and have no outstanding debts to the Australian Government
Eligible Family Members
When lodging a visa application, you can include following family members
Spouse or Partner
Spouse or de facto partner
Dependent Children
Dependent children or stepchildren (unmarried, under 23 or older if incapacitated)
FAQs About Australia Skilled Independent Visa (SUBCLASS 189)
What is the Skilled Independent Visa for?
What are the eligibility criteria for Subclass 189?
How to calculate points for 189 visa?
Is a job offer needed for Subclass 189?
What is the age limit for 189 visa?
Which English tests are accepted for 189?
What occupations are eligible for 189 visa?
Can family members be included in 189 application?
Does 189 provide permanent residency?
What health and character checks are required for 189?
Can I apply for 189 while on another visa?
Is there a quota for 189 invitations?
Can I change occupation after 189 invitation?
Is skills assessment mandatory for 189?
What obligations come with 189 visa?
Can I appeal a 189 visa refusal?
Does 189 require state nomination?
What are recent changes to 189 visa?
How does 189 differ from other skilled visas?
DISCLAIMER
The information provided here is only for general understanding and does not constitute legal advice. We recommend to check for updated information with the Department of Home Affairs at https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/skilled-independent-189
Ready to Apply for Skilled Independent Visa?
Not sure about your eligibility? Get in touch with our team of Registered Migration Agents and be sure of getting everything in place.