Are you a skilled professional with expertise in an occupation that’s in high demand in Australia?

Dreaming of securing permanent residency and building a future in Australia?

The Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) offers you the opportunity to live and work permanently in Australia—no sponsorship required. Take the next step toward your Australian dream and enjoy the benefits of living in one of the world’s most dynamic and diverse countries.

Why Choose the Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)?

The Subclass 189 Skilled Independent Visa is a points-tested visa designed for skilled professionals whose occupations are in high demand across Australia. This visa allows eligible individuals to live and work anywhere in Australia, without requiring sponsorship from a family member, employer, or state/territory government.

Key Benefits of the Skilled Independent 189 Visa

• Live, work, and study in Australia indefinitely

• Access Australia’s public healthcare system (Medicare)

• Pathway to Australian citizenship

• Sponsor eligible family members for permanent residency

• Travel in and out of Australia freely for five years from the date the visa is granted

Preparing Your Application: Why EOI Scoring Matters

Before applying, you must submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect and score a minimum of 65 points. Your EOI score determines your eligibility and ranking for an invitation to apply.

EOI score is calculated based on several factors:

• Age

• Educational qualifications (Diploma, Degree, or PhD)

• English language proficiency

• Skilled work experience

• Marital status and partner’s qualifications

• NAATI Accreditation

• Completion of a Professional Year program in Australia

Tip: Earning an Australian qualification such as a diploma or degree may add an extra 5 points to your score, provided it meets the required criteria.

Visa Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189), you must:

• Be under 45 years of age at the time of invitation

• Nominate an occupation listed on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL)

• Demonstrate competent English language proficiency

• Obtain a positive skills assessment from the relevant authority

• Meet the required points threshold based on your EOI

• Satisfy health and character requirements

Health and Character Requirements

All applicants and accompanying family members must:

• Complete medical examinations within 12 months of applying

• Submit police clearance certificates from all countries where they’ve lived for 12 months or more over the last 10 years (since turning 16)

Proof of English Language Competency

You must prove English proficiency by scoring at least:

• 50 in each section of the Pearson Test of English (PTE)

• 6 in each component of the IELTS

• Or equivalent scores in TOEFL iBT, OET, or Cambridge C1 Advanced (CAE)

No Outstanding Debts to the Australian Government

Before your visa is approved, ensure you have no unpaid debts to the Australian Government.

Including Family Members in Your Application

You can include the following family members in your visa application:

• Your spouse or de facto partner

• Your or your partner’s dependent children or stepchildren

Need Expert Help With Your Visa or EOI?

Feeling unsure about your eligibility, points score, or documentation? Our team of MARA-registered migration professionals is here to guide you through every step—from EOI submission to visa approval.

Disclaimer: This content is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For the most up-to-date information, please visit the Department of Home Affairs.