Skilled Independent Visa
(Subclass 189)
A points tested visa allowing highly skilled workers to live and work anywhere in Australia permanently. No employer or state sponsorship required.
Visa Validity
Permanent
Live anywhere
Requirements
Points Tested
Minimum 65 points
Family
Included
Eligible members
Base Cost
From $4,765
Primary applicant
Understanding the 189 Visa
The Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) is a prestigious permanent residency pathway for highly skilled professionals. It allows you to move to Australia based purely on your own qualifications, work experience, and English proficiency without needing any employer or state sponsorship.
As a points tested visa, your eligibility is determined by your score across several categories. If your occupation is in demand and you meet the required points threshold, this visa provides the ultimate freedom to live, work, and study anywhere in Australia indefinitely.
Our team provides end to end support, from initial eligibility assessment and points calculation to the strategic preparation of your Expression of Interest (EOI) and final visa submission.
Checking Your Occupation
A crucial first step is verifying your profession. Only specific high demand roles are eligible for the Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189). Before you begin, you must consult the official Skilled Occupation List to confirm your occupation qualifies and to identify the relevant authority that will assess your skills.
Benefits
Key Features of the 189 Visa
Explore why this visa is highly sought after by skilled professionals globally.
Complete Independence
Live, work, and study anywhere in Australia without being tied to a specific employer, state, or territory.
Outcome
Permanent Residency
Key Detail
No employer or state sponsorship required.
Language
Requires at least Competent English.
Who Can Apply?
To be invited to apply, you must satisfy these core eligibility benchmarks.
Age Limit
You must be strictly under 45 years old when you receive your invitation.
Skills Assessment
A positive skills assessment for an occupation on the eligible list.
Points Test
Score at least 65 points on the test (age, English, experience, etc).
English & Health
Prove Competent English and pass strict medical & character checks.
Roadmap
The Application Lifecycle
A simplified step by step horizontal guide to your 189 visa journey.
Submit EOI
Lodge your Expression of Interest via SkillSelect detailing your points.
Get Invited
Wait to receive an official invitation from the Department of Home Affairs.
Apply
Submit your full application and documents within 60 days of the invite.
Health & Character
Complete required medical exams and international police clearances.
Visa Decision
The Department reviews your application against all eligibility criteria.
Post Grant
Receive PR, live freely, and potentially sponsor eligible family members.
Earning Points
To reach the minimum 65 points, you can claim points across several categories:
- Core Factors: Age (up to 30 points), English proficiency (up to 20), Education (up to 20), and Work Experience (up to 20).
- Bonus Points: Earn 5 extra points for Regional Study, completing a Professional Year, or holding a recognized Community Language credential (NAATI).
- Partner Skills: Gain up to 10 points if you are single, or if your partner meets age, English, and skills criteria.
Application Costs
*Does not include fees for skills assessments, English tests, medical exams, and police clearances.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Ready to apply for your 189 Visa?
Take the first step towards a permanent future in Australia. Let our experts handle the complexity of your application.