Requirements to Apply for a Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)
The Subclass 189 Skilled Independent Visa is a popular pathway for skilled workers seeking permanent residency in Australia. It allows individuals to live and work anywhere in the country without needing employer sponsorship or state nomination.
Key Features:
- No Sponsorship Required: No need for sponsorship by an employer, family member, or state/territory government. Applicants are selected purely based on their skills and qualifications.
- Points-Tested: Applicants must meet a points-based system, earning points for factors like age, English proficiency, work experience, and education. A minimum score is required to qualify.
- Occupation List: You must nominate an occupation from the relevant skilled occupation list (SOL) and meet the required skills assessment for that role.
- Age Limit: Must be under 45 years old at the time of receiving an invitation to apply.
- Expression of Interest (EOI): Submit an EOI through the SkillSelect system. Invitations are issued based on your points score and eligibility.
- Permanent Residency: Once approved, the visa grants permanent residency, allowing you to live, work, and study anywhere in Australia.
Benefits of the Subclass 189 Visa:
Access to Medicare: Full access to Australia’s public healthcare system.
- Pathway to Citizenship: Eligible to apply for Australian citizenship after meeting residency requirements.
- Family Inclusion: Ability to include your spouse, children, and dependent relatives in your application.
- Freedom to Work: No job restrictions—you can work in any occupation or industry.
Visa Conditions:
- Must live and work in Australia as a permanent resident.
- Free to pursue any occupation or employment of choice.
- Must comply with all Australian laws and regulations.
The Subclass 189 Visa offers skilled professionals the opportunity to build a long-term future in Australia with the freedom to live and work anywhere in the country.
Types of Subclass 189 Streams
There are three streams for the 189 visa in Australia.
Apply for a 189 Skilled Independent visa
The first step in applying for a 189 Skilled Independent VisaÂ
is to get in touch with the team at K1 Migration and arrange a discovery call. Understanding your background and your goals will ensure we develop the right visa pathway that suits your circumstances. Â
We take each step with you and provide help and advice throughout your migration journey.   Â
Step 1
Once you reach out to K1 Migration, we set up a discovery call to understand what your needs are and what Visa best suits you.
Step 2
From there, we will send you a Strategy proposal outlining the steps we will take to assist you in getting a Visa for you to sign off on.
Step 3
Now our team leaps into action, following immigration pathways, taking care of the paperwork and helping you through the entire application process.
Ready to Take the First Step?
Let’s make it happen together. Contact K1 Migration today, and let us help you or your business take the next big step. We’re here to make your move smooth, stress-free, and successful!
Not sure what visa you could be eligible for?
Australian visas can be confusing, especially if you might have more than one option. Use our Visa Finder to view your visa options.Â
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Not sure where to go from here? Speak to a registered migration agent about your immigration needs today.
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Know what visa you want to apply for but need some pricing? Get in touch with us and we will get back to you with a fixed price quote.
Frequently Asked Questions
To qualify for the Subclass 189 Visa, you must:
- Have an occupation listed on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL).
- Obtain a positive skills assessment for your nominated occupation.
- Be under 45 years of age when you receive an invitation to apply.
- Achieve a minimum of 65 points on the SkillSelect points test (higher points improve your chances).
- Meet English language requirements (Competent English or higher).
- Satisfy health and character requirements.
The Subclass 189 Visa process involves several key steps:
- Check eligibility and confirm your occupation is on the MLTSSL.
- Complete a skills assessment with the relevant assessing authority.
- Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) via SkillSelect.
- Wait for an invitation to apply from the Department of Home Affairs.
- Lodge your visa application within 60 days of receiving the invitation.
- Wait for the visa decision and, if approved, become a permanent resident.
The Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) offers several advantages:
- Permanent residency: Live, work, and study anywhere in Australia.
- Full work rights with no employer sponsorship required.
- Access to Medicare, Australia’s public healthcare system.
- Ability to sponsor family members for permanent residency.
- Pathway to Australian citizenship after meeting residency requirements.
- Free to travel in and out of Australia for 5 years from the visa grant date.
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Visa Resources
Stay informed with the latest updates, expert insights, and essential resources on Australia’s evolving visa programs. From skilled migration pathways to new visa regulations, K1 Migration provides clear, accurate, and actionable information to help individuals and businesses successfully navigate the complex immigration landscape.
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