Australia is a popular destination for people looking to start a new life. Migrants worldwide travel to Australia because of its high standard of living and job opportunities. While getting into Australia can be difficult, the Skilled Independent visa is an excellent option for skilled workers who want to live and work permanently there.

Learn everything about the 189 visas, including the points required, eligibility and estimated cost.

​​Table of Contents

  • What is the 189 Visa?

  • What are points-based systems?

  • What is the procedure for applying for visa subclass 189?

  • Cost of visa subclass 189

  • Visa benefits and duration

  • Eligibility criteria for Australia Visa subclass 189

  • FAQs

What is the 189 Visa?

The Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189) provides international students with the necessary skills and qualifications with a path to permanent residency in Australia. The 189 visa is a point-based system that determines an applicant’s eligibility based on age, English language proficiency, work experience, education and other skills.

International students must first submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through the SkillSelect system before being invited to apply for the 189 visas by the Department of Home Affairs. It should be noted that the 189 visa category is highly competitive, and meeting the minimum eligibility specifications does not guarantee an invitation to apply.

What are points-based systems?

This visa operates on a points-based system, where a higher point score is advantageous. Meeting or exceeding a minimum of 65 points is essential to receive an invitation for the visa. The initial step involves submitting an EOI visa SkillSelect and providing an estimate of your points.

Upon assessment, if you receive an invitation, it will specify the required points for application assessment. Gathering substantial evidence to substantiate your assertions during the application process is crucial. The official Home Affairs website provides a points calculator to assess points.

What is the procedure for applying for visa subclass 189?

1. Initiate your application: Commence the process by submitting an EOI through SkillSelect.

2. Await Invitation: Wait for your visa application invitation from the Department of Home Affairs.

3. Gather supporting documents: Compile necessary documents to substantiate your expression of interest and confirm your eligibility. These documents include:

  • Proof of identity

  • English proficiency results

  • Partner and dependent documents

  • Skill assessment records

  • EOI documents

4. Visa application: Proceed to apply for the visa within 60 days of receiving the invitation.

5. Confirmation and bridging visa: After applying, you will be informed once your visa application is received, along with the potential granting of a bridging visa.

6. Visa decision: In case of a refusal, you will receive a notification of the reasons, though no refund is available. Upon approval, you will have a visa number, start date and applicable visa conditions.

Cost of visa subclass 189

A subclass 189 visa currently costs AUD 4,045 and is only valid for the primary applicant. There are additional fees for each family member listed on the application. You can use the Visa Pricing Estimator on the Home Affairs website to determine specific pricing. The current cost is AUD 2,020 for those over the age of 18 and AUD 1,105 for those under the age of 18.

Visa benefits and duration

The Skilled Independent visa offers a range of privileges and obligations. This visa allows you to establish permanent residency in Australia, granting you the freedom to work, study and access the Medicare public healthcare system. Medicare facilitates affordable or accessible healthcare services for eligible individuals.

Upon being granted the Skilled Independent subclass 189 visa, you can sponsor your family members for migration to Australia.

Additionally, you can travel to and from the country for 5 years and become eligible for Australian citizenship if you meet the necessary criteria. However, new residents or visa holders might have a waiting period before accessing specific financial aid and government benefits.

The Skilled Independent visa is categorised as a permanent resident visa, ensuring your indefinite stay in the country. While the travel aspect of the visa is valid for 5 years, obtaining a Resident Return visa (subclass 155 or 157) allows you to re-enter Australia after this duration.

The subclass 189 visa can be granted within Australia or as an entry method. Your legal status as a permanent resident commences when you receive the Skilled Independent visa.

Eligibility criteria for Australia Visa subclass 189

To be eligible for the 189 visa, several specific criteria must be fulfilled:

  • Your occupation must be listed on the skilled occupation list.

  • Successful completion of the skills assessment.

  • Invitation to apply for the visa.

  • Meeting the required points, with a minimum of 65 points.

  • Age falls between 18 to 44 years.

  • Demonstrating a proficient level of English.

  • Meeting the Australian health and character prerequisites.

This visa type does not necessitate sponsorship from an employer or relative.

FAQs

Can I include family members in my visa application?

Yes, certain family members can be listed on this application.

What rights do I have after taking the visa subclass 189?

Getting the visa subclass 189 enables you to:

  • Live and work permanently in Australia

  • Study at Australian institutions

  • Access Medicare, Australia’s health care system

What is the difference between 189 & 190 Visa?

Subclass 189 is an independent visa, while Subclass 190 is a state-sponsored visa. The applicant can live anywhere in Australia once the 189 visa is granted. Visa subclass 190 holders, on the other hand, may reside in the nominating state for the first two years.