Australia Skilled independent visa
Australian Migration
- Australia Skilled independent visa
- What is the Australia 189 Skilled independent visa？
The Australia Skilled independent (Subclass 189) visa is one of the most popular pathways for skilled professionals to gain permanent residency (PR) in Australia. Unlike other visa programs, the 189 visa does not require state sponsorship, employer sponsorship, or family support. Applicants simply need to pass a skills assessment and meet the points requirements to have the opportunity to become a permanent resident of Australia.
Once granted the 189 visa, applicants can live, work, and study anywhere in Australia, and enjoy most benefits available to Australian permanent residents. The 189 Skilled independent visa is an ideal option for applicants with high qualifications, strong English proficiency, and relevant work experience.
Key Benefits of the 189 Visa
- Direct pathway to Australian permanent residency (PR)
- No state or employer sponsorship required
- Freedom to choose any city to live in Australia
- Eligible to include spouse and dependent children in the application
- Pathway to Australian citizenship once eligible
- Eligibility
To apply for the 189 Independent Skilled Migration Visa, applicants generally need to meet the following requirements:
- Occupation on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL)
The applicant’s occupation must be listed on the Australian Skilled Occupation List.
- Complete a Skills Assessment
Applicants must undergo a skills assessment with the relevant assessing authority to verify their qualifications and work experience.
- EOI Points Requirement
Applicants submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) via the Skill Select system and must achieve at least 65 points.
- English Language Proficiency
Typically requires IELTS 6 in each band or equivalent (Competent English).
- Health and Character Checks
Applicants and their family members must pass health examinations and police clearance checks.
- EOI Points System
Australia’s skilled migration uses a points-based system. Key points factors include:
- Age (25–32 years generally score the highest)
- English language proficiency (IELTS, PTE, or equivalent)
- Work experience (Australia or overseas)
- Education level (Bachelor, Master, PhD)
- Australian study experience
- Spouse skills and points
- Community language proficiency (CCL)
- Professional Year completion (for specific occupations)
The higher your points, the better your chances of receiving an invitation to apply.
- Visa Application Process
The application process for the 189 Independent Skilled Migration Visa typically includes:
- Step 1: Check Occupation and Assessing Authority
Ensure your occupation is on the Skilled Occupation List.
- Step 2: Complete Skills Assessment
Submit your qualifications and work experience for assessment.
- Step 3: Prepare English Exam
Achieve the required score on IELTS, PTE, or other accepted tests.
- Step 4: Submit EOI
Submit your Expression of Interest in the SkillSelect system.
- Step 5: Receive Invitation and Lodge Visa Application
Once invited, submit your full 189 visa application.
- Step 6: Receive Australian PR
After approval, you become an Australian permanent resident.
- 189 HK Stream Visa – For Hong Kong Passport Holders
The 189 HK Stream visa offers a permanent residency pathway specifically for Hong Kong passport holders (HKSAR or BNO). Applicants usually need to have held a temporary visa while living and working in Australia before applying:
- Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (Subclass 482)
- Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)
For the 189 HK Stream, applicants do not need to meet the standard EOI points or skills assessment requirements, but must provide documentation to prove eligibility, including education, work, and residence evidence, and generally must have lived in Australia for 4 consecutive years prior to application.
- 189 HK Stream Eligibility Requirements
- Hold a Subclass 485 or 482 visa
- Reside in Australia for at least 3 - 4 years
- Meet English language requirements (or pay additional fees if below standard)