Subclass 189 - Skilled Independent visa
The Subclass 189 visa is a permanent residency pathway for skilled workers under 45 with an MLTSSL occupation, positive skills assessment, competent English, and at least 65 points.
About this visa
The Australian Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) is a permanent residency visa for skilled workers not sponsored by an employer, a state, or a family member. Applicants must be under 45, have a positive skill assessment in an occupation on the Medium and Long Term Strategic Skills List, and demonstrate competent English. A minimum score of 65 points on the skilled points test is required. The application process involves submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI) and receiving an invitation to apply. The visa allows holders to live and work in Australia indefinitely, and includes family members, subject to certain conditions.
Eligibility for Applicant
| Points-tested stream | ||
|---|---|---|
| Age |
| |
| Points Test |
| |
| Skills Assessment |
| |
| English Language |
| |
| Health & Character |
| |
| Expression of Interest (EOI) |
| |
Process
Submit the EOI
Receive an Invitation
Visa Application
Cost
| Cost | |
|---|---|
| Primary Applicant | AUD 4,910 |
| Secondary Applicants (aged 18 and over) | AUD 2,455 each |
| Dependent Children (under 18) | AUD 1,230 each |
The fee is subject to the latest pricing set by the Australian Department of Home Affairs.
Stay Period
This is a permanent visa, allowing you to reside in Australia indefinitely. The visa includes a travel component that remains valid for five years from the date of visa grant.
You attain permanent resident status on the day when:
- The visa is granted if you are in Australia.
- You enter Australia on this visa if you are outside the country.
For the purpose of Australian citizenship eligibility, your permanent residency commences on the day:
- The visa is granted if you are in Australia.
- You arrive in Australia on this visa if you are currently outside the country.
Family
The Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) allows you to include the following family members in your visa application:
- Spouse or Partner: This includes your legally married spouse or de facto partner (opposite-sex or same-sex).
- Dependent Children: You can include your dependent children in the application. Dependent children are generally unmarried and under the age of 18. In some cases, dependent children over 18 but financially dependent on you may also be eligible.
- Other Dependent Relatives: In certain circumstances, other dependent relatives can be included in the application, such as elderly parents or financially dependent siblings. However, specific requirements and limitations may apply.
It’s important to note that all family members included in the application must meet the eligibility criteria and provide the necessary documentation to support their inclusion. Additionally, each family member must be listed in the visa application form, and their details and relationship to the primary applicant must be accurately declared.
Frequently Asked Questions
What must be true at the time of invitation vs at the time of application?
For 189, most points-test criteria must be met at the time of invitation (e.g., under 45, English, valid skills assessment, claimed points). After invitation, you have 60 days to lodge the visa; health and character are checked at decision. EOIs are valid for 2 years.
How are invitations decided and what affects timing?
Invitations are issued in periodic SkillSelect rounds. The number varies, and occupation ceilings may limit certain groups. Ranking is by points; updating your EOI with higher English scores or more work experience improves your chances.
Do I need a skills assessment, and how long must it be valid?
Yes, a suitable skills assessment is required and must be valid at invitation. Current policy allows assessments obtained during the 60-day invitation window, but always check the latest rules.
How do partner points and single-applicant points work?
You can claim partner points if your partner meets skills or English requirements, or claim single-applicant points. Evidence must be valid at invitation.
Does lodging a 189 onshore give me a bridging visa? Can I travel?
Lodging a 189 onshore usually grants a Bridging Visa A (BVA), which activates when your current visa expires. A BVA does not include travel rights; you must apply for a BVB to travel.
What happens if my claimed points or documents are wrong?
If you can’t prove claimed points, the visa can be refused. False or misleading information may trigger PIC 4020, leading to a 3- or 10-year bar.
I’m turning 45 soon—does that end my eligibility?
Age is assessed at invitation. If you are under 45 when invited, later turning 45 does not affect eligibility.
Can I lodge 189 onshore if I’m affected by section 48 bar?
No. Section 48 allows only certain visas (190, 491, 494) to be lodged onshore after a refusal/cancellation. 189 is not exempt—you must apply offshore.
Is the New Zealand stream still available?
No. The New Zealand stream closed permanently on 1 July 2023. Only the points-tested stream remains.
After grant, what are my travel rights and PR status?
A 189 visa grants permanent residence with a 5-year travel facility. After it expires, apply for an RRV or citizenship to keep travelling.
Note: This FAQ is general information only and not legal advice. Settings (e.g., eligibility tests, exemptions, and evidentiary rules) can change; always check the latest legislative instruments before applying.
