About the Skilled Independent Visa (189)
The Subclass 189 is a permanent residency visa for skilled workers who are not sponsored by an employer, state/territory, or family member. Invitations are issued based on your points score and Expression of Interest (EOI) in SkillSelect.
Key Benefits
- Permanent residence from grant — live, work, and study anywhere in Australia.
- Unlimited work rights and access to Medicare (once enrolled).
- Include eligible family members in your application.
- Option to apply for Australian citizenship when eligible.
General Eligibility
- Submit an EOI in SkillSelect and receive an invitation to apply.
- Have an occupation on the current eligible skilled occupation list and a positive skills assessment.
- Be under the relevant age limit at invitation (typically 45).
- Meet at least the current points threshold for invitations.
- Demonstrate competent English (or higher, for extra points).
- Meet health and character requirements and hold adequate health cover until Medicare eligibility.
How the Points Work
Your score is calculated from factors such as:
- Age, English proficiency, skilled employment (AUS & overseas), and qualifications.
- Australian study, specialist education, Professional Year, NAATI CCL, partner skills, and more.
Application Process
1) Skills & Points
Confirm your occupation, obtain a positive skills assessment, and calculate your points.
2) Submit EOI
Lodge your SkillSelect EOI and keep it updated. Wait to be invited based on your ranking.
3) Apply After Invitation
On invitation, lodge your 189 application with evidence: identity, skills, English, health & character.
Why Choose Us for Subclass 189?
Points Strategy
We model multiple scenarios to maximize your points and invitation chances.
Assessment Ready
End-to-end guidance on skills assessments, English tests, and evidence preparation.
Compliance First
Meticulous application build to meet Home Affairs requirements the first time.
Check Your 189 Eligibility
Tell us about your occupation, experience, and qualifications — we’ll map your points and next steps.