Breaking Down the Australia Skilled Independent Visa Subclass 189: Essential Info You Need to Know
Are you considering applying for the Australia Skilled Independent Visa Subclass 189? If so, you’re probably wondering what the application process entails. This blog post will provide an in-depth look at the key steps and documents you need to know about the Australia Skilled Independent Visa Subclass 189 to help you make an informed decision. We’ll also discuss the advantages of the visa and the requirements you must meet in order to be eligible.

What is the Skilled Independent Visa Subclass 189?
The Skilled Independent Visa Subclass 189 is a type of visa offered by the Australian government that allows skilled workers to live and work permanently in Australia. It is designed for individuals who have skills that are in demand in the Australian labor market and who do not have any sponsorship from an employer or family member.
One of the key features of the Skilled Independent Visa Subclass 189 is that it is a points-based visa. This means that applicants are assessed on various factors, including their age, English language proficiency, work experience, education qualifications, and other relevant factors. The higher the number of points a candidate has, the greater their chances of being invited to apply for the visa.
Unlike other types of Australian visas, the Skilled Independent Visa Subclass 189 does not require an employer to sponsor the applicant. This makes it a popular choice for individuals who do not have job offers in Australia but still want to live and work in the country.
To be eligible for the Skilled Independent Visa Subclass 189, applicants must first submit an expression of interest (EOI) through the Australian Department of Home Affairs’ SkillSelect system. This EOI provides information about the applicant’s skills, qualifications, and work experience. Once the EOI is submitted, candidates are ranked against other applicants based on their points score. Those with the highest scores are then invited to apply for the visa.
Once an invitation is received, applicants must submit a complete visa application within 60 days. This includes providing documentation to support their claims, such as evidence of their qualifications, work experience, English language proficiency, and other relevant information.
The Skilled Independent Visa Subclass 189 offers numerous benefits to successful applicants. Firstly, it provides permanent residency in Australia, which means that visa holders can live and work in the country indefinitely. They also have access to the Australian healthcare system, social security benefits, and the opportunity to apply for Australian citizenship.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for the Visa
So, you’ve decided to apply for the Australia Skilled Independent Visa Subclass 189? Great choice! Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step guide on successfully navigating the application process.
- Check Your Eligibility: Before starting your application, make sure you meet all the eligibility requirements for the Skilled Independent Visa Subclass 189. Check if your occupation is on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL) or the Consolidated Sponsored Occupation List (CSOL). Remember, you’ll need a positive skill assessment from a relevant assessing authority, as well as meeting the points test and English language proficiency requirements.
- Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI): Once you’ve confirmed your eligibility, the next step is to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through the Australian Department of Home Affairs’ SkillSelect system. Your EOI should include your skills, qualifications, and work experience. Don’t forget to mention your occupation and the relevant assessing authority that assessed your skills.
- Score High on the Points Test: The Skilled Independent Visa Subclass 189 is a points-based visa. Your points will be assessed based on various factors such as your age, English language proficiency, work experience, and qualifications. Aim to score at least 65 points, the current pass mark. Remember, the higher your score, the better your chances of receiving an invitation to apply for the visa.
- Receive an Invitation and Lodge Your Application: If you meet the minimum points requirement and your occupation is in high demand, you may receive an invitation to apply for the visa. Congratulations! You have 60 days to lodge your complete visa application. Gather all the required documents, including evidence of your qualifications, work experience, English language proficiency, and other relevant information.
- Pay the Application Fees: Before submitting your application, don’t forget to pay the required visa application fees. The fees may vary depending on your circumstances, so check the current prices on the Australian Department of Home Affairs website.
- Await the Visa Decision: Once you’ve submitted your application, it’s time to patiently await a decision from the Australian Department of Home Affairs. The processing time can vary, so be prepared for some waiting. You can check the status of your application online through the ImmiAccount portal.
And that’s it! Follow these step-by-step instructions, and you’ll be ready to apply for the Australia Skilled Independent Visa Subclass 189.
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Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for the Australia Skilled Independent Visa Subclass 189, there are specific requirements that you must meet. These requirements are implemented to ensure that the visa is granted to individuals with the necessary skills and qualifications in demand in the Australian labour market. Here’s what you need to know:
- Occupation List: The first requirement is that your occupation must be on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL) or the Consolidated Sponsored Occupation List (CSOL). The SOL consists of occupations in high demand and do not require employer sponsorship, while the CSOL includes fields that may require support from an employer.
- Skill Assessment: To be eligible for the visa, you must have your skills assessed by a relevant assessing authority. This assessment is done to see if your qualifications and work experience match the requirements of your chosen occupation.
- Points Test: The Skilled Independent Visa Subclass 189 is a points-based visa, meaning you must score a minimum number of points to be eligible. Points are awarded based on age, English language proficiency, work experience, qualifications, and other relevant criteria. The current pass mark for the points test is 65.
- Age Requirement: You must be under 45 at the time of application. Points are awarded based on your age, with the maximum number of points awarded to applicants between the ages of 25 and 32.
- English Language Proficiency: To be eligible for the visa, you must demonstrate competent English language skills. This can be done by taking an approved English language test such as the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) or the Occupational English Test (OET).
- Health and Character Requirements: Like any other visa application, you must meet the health and character requirements set by the Australian Department of Home Affairs. This includes undergoing a medical examination and providing police clearances from all countries you have lived in for over 12 months in the past ten years.
Meeting the eligibility requirements does not guarantee that you will be granted a visa. The Skilled Independent Visa Subclass 189 operates on a points-based system, and the number of places available is limited. Therefore, it is essential to ensure you meet all the requirements and score as high as possible on the points test to increase your chances of getting an invitation to apply for the visa.
Required Documents and Application Fees
To apply for the Australia Skilled Independent Visa Subclass 189, you must gather and submit various documents to support your application. Providing accurate and complete information is essential, as missing or incorrect documents can delay or even reject your application.
The required documents for the Skilled Independent Visa Subclass 189 can vary depending on your circumstances and nominated occupation. However, here is a general list of the documents you will typically need:
- Identity documents: You must provide proof of your identity, such as a certified copy of your passport, birth certificate, or national identity card. Could you make sure the documents are clear and legible?
- Skills assessment: As mentioned earlier, a positive skills assessment from a relevant assessing authority is a crucial requirement for the visa. You must include the assessment outcome letter or certificate in your application.
- English language proficiency: To prove your English proficiency, you must provide the results of an approved English language test, such as the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) or the Occupational English Test (OET). Could you submit the test results within the validity period specified by the Department of Home Affairs?
- Educational qualifications: You must provide evidence of your educational qualifications, such as degree certificates or transcripts. If your qualification was obtained outside Australia, you may need to have it assessed for equivalency.
- Work experience: You must provide documents proving your work experience in the nominated occupation. This can include employment contracts, payslips, reference letters, or any other relevant documentation that verifies your employment history.
- Health and character documents: As part of the application process, you must undergo a medical examination by a panel of doctors approved by the Department of Home Affairs. You must also obtain police clearances from all countries you have lived in for over 12 months in the past 10 years.
Now, let’s talk about the application fees. The primary applicant’s current Skilled Independent Visa Subclass 189 application feeĀ is AUD 4,045. Additional fees may apply if you have family members included in your application.
It’s important to note that visa application fees are subject to change, so checking the current prices on the Australian Department of Home Affairs website before submitting your application is crucial.
In addition to the visa application fee, you may also need to pay for additional services, such as health examinations, police clearances, and translation or certification of documents.

Benefits of Obtaining the Skilled Independent Visa Subclass 189
The Skilled Independent Visa Subclass 189 offers a range of benefits to successful applicants, making it an attractive option for those looking to live and work in Australia. Let’s explore some of the advantages of obtaining this visa.
First and foremost, the Skilled Independent Visa Subclass 189 provides permanent residency in Australia. This means that visa holders can live and work in the country indefinitely, giving them the freedom to establish their lives and build their careers in Australia. Permanent residency also grants access to the Australian healthcare system, allowing visa holders to benefit from high-quality healthcare services.
In addition to the healthcare benefits, visa holders also have access to social security benefits in Australia. This includes the ability to apply for unemployment benefits should the need arise. The Skilled Independent Visa Subclass 189 also offers the opportunity to apply for Australian citizenship after meeting specific criteria. This means that successful applicants have the potential to become full-fledged Australian citizens with all the rights and privileges that come with it.
Another significant advantage of the Skilled Independent Visa Subclass 189 is its flexibility in terms of employment. Unlike other types of Australian visas that require employer sponsorship, this visa allows individuals to work in any occupation and for any employer in Australia. This means that visa holders are not tied to a specific job or employer, allowing them to explore different career opportunities and make choices that align with their professional goals and interests.
Furthermore, the Skilled Independent Visa Subclass 189 offers a pathway to bring family members to Australia. Once the visa holder becomes a permanent resident, they can include their eligible family members in their visa application. This means that spouses, partners, dependent children, and other eligible relatives can also enjoy the benefits of living and working in Australia.
In summary, the Skilled Independent Visa Subclass 189 offers many benefits, including permanent residency, access to healthcare and social security benefits, the potential for Australian citizenship, flexibility in employment, and the opportunity to bring family members to Australia. These advantages make the visa an appealing option for skilled individuals who wish to make Australia their home and take advantage of the country’s numerous opportunities.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for the Visa
Applying for the Australia Skilled Independent Visa Subclass 189 can be complex and lengthy. To increase your chances of success, it’s essential to avoid common mistakes that can lead to delays or even the rejection of your application. Here are some key pitfalls to watch out for:
- Insufficient evidence: One of the most common mistakes applicants make is failing to provide sufficient evidence to support their claims. It’s crucial to gather all the necessary documents, such as qualifications, work experience, and English language test results, and ensure they are accurate and complete. Please double-check that you have included all required documents and that they meet the Australian Department of Home Affairs requirements.
- Incomplete application: Submitting an incomplete application is a surefire way to get your visa application rejected. Ensure you fill out all the required forms and provide all the necessary information. Triple-check your application to ensure all fields and sections are present. It’s also important to pay attention to any additional requirements or requests from the Department of Home Affairs and provide the information you asked for as soon as possible.
- Not meeting the English language requirement: The Skilled Independent Visa Subclass 189 requires applicants to demonstrate competent English skills. This can be done by taking an approved English language test, such as IELTS or OET. Many applicants need to pay more attention to the importance of achieving the required scores and fall short. Prepare adequately for the English language test and aim for a score that meets or exceeds the minimum requirements.
- Failure to meet health and character requirements: The Skilled Independent Visa Subclass 189 has strict health and character requirements that must be met. This includes undergoing a medical examination by a panel of approved doctors and providing police clearances from all countries where you have lived for more than 12 months in the past ten years. You’ll need to meet these requirements to avoid rejecting your application. Please schedule your medical examination and obtain the necessary police clearances well in advance.
- Missing deadlines: The Skilled Independent Visa Subclass 189 has specific timelines to adhere to. Please make sure your application is accepted. Please keep track of important dates, such as the deadline for submitting your complete application after receiving an invitation, and make sure you offer all required documents and fees on time.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can significantly improve your chances of successfully applying for the Australia Skilled Independent Visa Subclass 189. It’s essential to approach the application process with diligence and attention to detail, as even minor errors can have significant consequences. Seek guidance from migration experts or professionals to ensure a smooth and successful application process.
Difference between Subclass 189 and 190
Are you ready to dive into the essential information you need to know about the Australia Skilled Independent Visa Subclass 189? Great, let’s get started! In this section, we’ll break down the critical details of this visa and provide you with the necessary information to navigate the application process successfully. We’ve covered you, from eligibility requirements to step-by-step instructions and required documents. We’ll also explore the numerous benefits of obtaining this visa and highlight common mistakes to avoid when applying. By the end of this section, you’ll understand what it takes to apply for and receive the Australia Skilled Independent Visa Subclass 189. So, let’s jump in and get the essential information you need!
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