189 Visa – Skilled Independent Visa

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189 Visa – Skilled Independent Visa for Permanent Residency in Australia

The 189 visa, officially known as the Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189), is one of Australia’s most sought-after permanent residency options. Designed for highly skilled workers who are not sponsored by an employer, state, or family member, the visa 189 allows individuals to live and work anywhere in Australia. Whether you refer to it as the subclass 189, 189 PR visa, or Australia visa 189, this visa is your direct pathway to building a future in Australia.

What Is the Subclass 189 Visa?

This PR visa is a points-tested permanent visa under the General Skilled Migration (GSM) program. Applicants must receive an invitation through SkillSelect before lodging their application. Because no sponsorship or nomination is required, this is considered the most flexible skilled visa.

Key Features of the 189 Visa Australia

Permanent residency from day one
No need for employer, state, or family sponsorship
Freedom to live and work anywhere in Australia
Include eligible family members
Access to Medicare and other government benefits
Pathway to Australian citizenship

Moreover, this visa allows you to enjoy full legal work rights and settle long-term in any state or territory.

Visa Requirements – Are You Eligible?

To be eligible for this visa, you must:

Have an occupation on the MLTSSL (Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List)
Be under 45 years of age at the time of invitation
Have a positive skills assessment
Lodge an Expression of Interest (EOI) and receive an invitation
Score at least 65 points in the points test
Have competent English proficiency
Meet health and character requirements

In addition, meeting the minimum criteria does not guarantee an invitation—higher scores improve your chances.

Application Process – How to Apply for a 189 Visa

Here is a simplified overview of the 189 PR visa process:

Check occupation eligibility
Obtain a skills assessment from the relevant assessing body
Calculate your GSM points
Submit your EOI via SkillSelect
Wait for an invitation to apply
Lodge your visa application via ImmiAccount
Attend health and character checks

After submission, applications are assessed by the Department of Home Affairs.

189 Visa Processing Time

Processing times vary depending on profile and volume of applications. As of 2025:

50% of applications: approx. 6 months
90% of applications: approx. 6 months

🧮 Points Test for Skilled Migration

Your chances of receiving an invitation depend heavily on your points score. Points are awarded for:

Age
English language ability
Skilled work experience
Educational qualifications
Australian study requirements
Partner skills or NAATI
Professional year in Australia

Accordingly, boosting your points through extra qualifications or English test results can be decisive.

Family Members You Can Include

You can include:

Your spouse or de facto partner
Your dependent children
Other eligible dependents

Once granted, all family members will enjoy the same permanent resident rights as you.

Why Choose Jade Immigration Lawyers?

At Jade Immigration Lawyers, we:

Review and calculate your points accurately
Guide you through skills assessments and EOI
Draft professional visa applications
Address complex migration law concerns

Ready to take the next step?

Speak with Jade Immigration Lawyers today – we’re here to help you.

📞 Call us: 0485 907 989
📧 Email: jade@jadeimmigrationlawyers.com.au
📝 Submit an online enquiry or
📅 Book a consultation now to get personalised immigration advice from our experienced team. We assist clients across Australia and internationally.

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FAQ

Find answers to common questions about our Work Visa Australia services and processes. If you need further assistance, please contact us.

What is the 189 visa?

The 189 visa is a permanent skilled migration visa for highly skilled workers without sponsor or nomination requirements.

Do I need a job offer to apply for a subclass 189 visa?

No. This visa does not require a job offer or sponsorship.

Can I apply for the 189 visa outside Australia?

Yes, you can apply from inside or outside Australia once invited.

Can I include my family in the visa application?

Yes, eligible family members can be included and will receive the same residency rights.