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Move to Australia with Skilled Independent Visa 189 – Free Advice
GIEC Global UK provides expert support to help skilled professionals apply for the Visa 189 and live permanently in Australia.
Complete Guide to skilled independent visa 189
If you’re a skilled professional dreaming of making Australia your permanent home, then the subclass 189 visa Australia might be your golden ticket. As an MARA Registered Agent we have helped hundreds of clients navigate this pathway. I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about this 189 visa in simple, straightforward terms.
What is the Skilled Independent Visa Australia?
The subclass 189 visa australia is a permanent residence pathway for skilled workers who are not sponsored by an employer or a state/territory. Also known as skilled Independent visa, it is allocated based on Australia’s PR points system. To be eligible, applicants need at least 65 points, which are calculated based on age, English proficiency, work experience, education and other factors. You can use Australia PR Point Calculator to check if you meet the minimum point requirement or not. Australia independent skilled visa allows you to live and work anywhere in the country, Unlike employer-sponsored visas or state-nominated visas, this visa provides full flexibility to choose your city or region without restrictions.
Key Benefits of a 189 australia visa
The benefits of a 189 visa are substantial and life-changing:
- Complete freedom: Live, work, and study anywhere in Australia
- Permanent residency: Stay in Australia indefinitely
- Family inclusion: Include your spouse and unmarried children under 25
- Healthcare access: Enjoy Medicare, Australia’s public healthcare system
- Pathway to citizenship: Eligible to apply for Australian citizenship after meeting residency requirements
- Travel flexibility: Come and go from Australia as you please
- Work rights: No restrictions on employment – work for any employer or start your own business.
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189 Visa Requirements: What You Need to Qualify
If you’re considering applying for the Australian skilled independent visa subclass 189, it’s important to understand the basic requirements. This visa is ideal for individuals who want to migrate to Australia permanently without needing sponsorship. Meeting these basic requirements is essential to proceed with the visa application. The Skilled Independent Visa Subclass 189 Australia gives skilled workers a pathway to live, work and eventually become citizens of Australia. GIEC Global UK can help you understand these criteria and guide you through every step of the process.
The basic eligibility criteria for the 189 visa Australia requirements include:
You must be under 45 years of age at the time of invitation.
You must have an occupation listed on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL).
You must complete a successful skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority.
You must score at least 65 points on the points test.
You must have competent English (e.g., IELTS score of 6 in each band or equivalent).
You must meet the required health and character standards.
You must receive an invitation to apply after submitting your Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect.
Points and invitation rounds
Your points determine your competitiveness. These points are based on age, English, skilled employment (Australia/overseas), qualifications, Australian study, partner points, NAATI credentials, and specialist STEM qualifications.
- The aus 189 visa points threshold is 65, but invitations often go to higher scores depending on demand and occupation ceilings.
Use an australia 189 visa points calculator to estimate your score before you lodge an EOI. - Invitations are issued through SkillSelect during the australia 189 visa invitation round. Authorities may prioritize critical sectors (for example, health and education) based on program needs.
- While some people refer to it as an australia 189 visa draw, invitations are not a lottery; they follow a points ranking and date-of-EOI logic.
Australia 189 Visa Draw
Invitation rounds for the Subclass 189 visa happen irregularly, sometimes monthly, sometimes less frequently and only the highest-scoring applicants are invited. Cut-off scores change by occupation and overall demand, so some fields need higher points than others. Because rounds have become less frequent and more competitive in recent years, it’s important to maximise your points—through higher English scores, extra work experience, qualifications or partner points—and keep your EOI updated. Submitting a strong, up-to-date EOI gives you the best chance when invites are issued.
australian 189 visa processing time
The 189 Skilled Visa is in high demand because it offers permanent residency without requiring employer or family sponsorship. However, the waiting period may take several months. To reduce delays, ensure that all documents are correct and submit a complete application. In 2025, 90% of applications are expected to be processed within 8 to 12 months. The processing time for the 189 visa may vary depending on several factors.
- Higher application volumes can lead to longer processing times.
- Submitting all required documents at once speeds up processing.
- Some occupations on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL) may be processed faster than others.
- Background, health and character checks can take additional time.
visa 189 australia cost
If you are planning to apply for the Subclass 189 Visa then it’s important to know the costs involved before lodging your application. Many applicants only consider the application fee but forget about skills assessments and medical check expenses, which can add up quickly and can increase your budget.
189 visa australia fees
The Department of Home Affairs charges different fees depending on who is included in your application:
- Primary applicant: AUD $4,640*
- Additional applicant (18 years or older): AUD $2,320*
- Additional applicant (under 18 years): AUD $1,160*
Other Possible Costs
Apart from the visa application fee, you may also need to pay for these expenses.
- Skills assessment – varies depending on your occupation and the assessing authority.
- English language test – IELTS, PTE or other accepted exams may have different costs based on your test location.
- Medical examinations – required to ensure you meet Australia’s health standards.
- Police clearance certificates—costs depend on your home country and any other countries where you have lived.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
In my experience helping clients with their skilled independent subclass 189 visa applications, these are the most common mistakes:
- Underestimating processing times: Start your skills assessment early
- Poor English preparation: Don’t settle for minimum scores if you can achieve higher
- Incomplete documentation: Missing documents cause significant delays
- Age timing: Apply before you turn 33 to maintain maximum age points
- Occupation choice: Ensure your occupation has regular invitation rounds
Difference between 189 and 190
| Criteria | Subclass 189 - Skilled Independent | Subclass 190 - Skilled Nominated |
|---|---|---|
| Nomination Requirement | No nomination required Advantage | State/Territory nomination required Extra Step |
| Points Requirement | Minimum 65 points (realistically 75-80+) Higher | Minimum 65 points + 5 nomination points Lower |
| Living Restrictions | Live anywhere in Australia immediately Freedom | Must live in nominating state for 2+ years Restricted |
| Occupation Lists | Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) | MLTSSL + Short-term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL) More Options |
| Application Process | 1. Skills Assessment 2. EOI Submission 3. Invitation 4. Visa Application | 1. Skills Assessment 2. State Nomination 3. EOI Submission 4. Invitation 5. Visa Application Complex |
| Processing Time | 8-12 months from invitation | 6-12 months from invitation Similar |
| Application Fee | AUD $4,640* (main applicant) | AUD $4,640* + state nomination fees (varies) Higher Cost |
| Invitation Frequency | Less frequent rounds Irregular | More regular state rounds Frequent |
| Competition Level | Very high competition Competitive | Moderate competition (varies by state) Easier |
| Work Rights | Unrestricted work anywhere in Australia Freedom | Unrestricted work (after nomination requirements) Similar |
| Pathway to Citizenship | 4 years permanent residence | 4 years permanent residence Same |
| Best Suited For | • High points scorers (80+) • Flexible location preferences • MLTSSL occupations • Independent applicants | • Medium points scorers (65-75) • Willing to commit to a state • STSOL occupations • Need nomination boost |
💡 Expert Recommendation
If you have 80+ points and your occupation is on the MLTSSL, pursue the 189 visa for maximum freedom. If you have 65-75 points or your occupation is only on STSOL, the 190 visa offers a more realistic pathway with state nomination support.
189 visa skills assessment
A skills assessment is a mandatory step in the 189 visa process. You need to make sure that your qualifications and work experience match the standards required in Australia.For the skilled independent subclass 189 visa, this assessment ensures that your skills meet Australian industry standards. It’s an essential part of showing you qualify under the skilled independent visa Australia requirements.
Each occupation has a designated assessing body, such as Engineers Australia for engineers, ACS for IT professionals, and ANMAC for nurses. You must complete the skills assessment before submitting your Expression of Interest (EOI).The assessment process may take multiple weeks to a few months, depending on the authority. Fees change based on your occupation and the assessing body. For more detail visit Official website skill assessment.The 189 visa process can be confusing and a single mistake can lead to visa rejection. That’s why we recommend to consult with MARA Registered, who can help and make your visa process smoother and error free.
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get in touch with 189 visa australia consultants
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Office Telephone : +44 (742) 4234034
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First Central 200, 6th floor, Suite Number 6.034 2 Lakeside Dr, London NW10 7FQ
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frequently asked questions
You can learn more from our asked questions
The 189 visa Australia, also called the Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189), is a permanent resident visa for skilled workers. You don’t need a job offer, state nomination, or family sponsor to apply. It lets you live, work, and stay anywhere in Australia permanently.
You can apply if your occupation is on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) and you’re under 45, have competent English, pass a skills assessment and score at least 65 points on the points test.
You must have at least 65 points in order to apply for the skilled independent visa subclass 189. Your invitation chances increase with your good score or if you show your all documents including your age, education, English proficiency, work experience
Yes, the 189 visa include your partner or spouse and children. They will also get permanent residency if your visa get approved. Your family must fulfill the health and character certificates also.
The processing time for the skilled independent visa Australia usually takes between 6 to 12 months* after you receive an invitation letter then you can submit or lodge your application. The processing time can be change depending on your documents, accuracy and case complexity.
No, you do not need a job offer letter to apply for the Subclass 189 visa Australia. This visa is for skilled workers who qualify based on their skills, qualifications and points, they do not required any sponsorship from a company or state.
To qualify, you must usually:
Have an occupation on the state’s Skilled Occupation List.
Meet the points test requirement.
Show commitment to live and work in that state or territory.
Meet English, skills assessment, health, and character requirements.
A British passport alone does not allow permanent residence. You can visit temporarily on a Visitor Visa or ETA. To live permanently, you need an appropriate visa like a Skilled Visa (189/190), Employer-Sponsored Visa (186) or Family/Partner Visa.
You need clear evidence that your engineering work was paid, genuine, and relevant. This can include employer reference letters, payslips, contracts, tax records or bank statements. Documents should show your role, duties, dates, and hours worked.
No, a short period of unemployment does not affect your Subclass 189 visa application as long as you have already completed the skilled work experience needed for your points claim.
With full work rights, 189 visa holders are treated like citizens by employers. Job prospects depend on your skills, industry demand, and location. While sectors like IT, health, and engineering offer good opportunities, newcomers may face challenges without local experience or networks.
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Note: Contact the nearest GIEC Global branch by searching “australia immigration agent near me” for the most recent and updated information.
