The 189 visa Australia, also known as the Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189), is a points-based permanent residency visa for skilled workers. Unlike some other visa options, this one doesn’t require sponsorship from an employer, state, or family member. It's designed for individuals whose qualifications and experience match Australia's long-term workforce needs.

If you're planning to build a life in Australia and your occupation is in demand, the 189 visa might be your pathway. This article outlines how the visa works, who is eligible, how the application process unfolds, and what you can expect after the visa is granted.

What Is the 189 Visa?

The 189 visa is part of the Australian General Skilled Migration (GSM) program. It's intended for skilled professionals who have qualifications in occupations listed on Australia’s Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL). The visa provides permanent residency and allows you to live and work anywhere in the country.

This visa is ideal for independent applicants who meet the required criteria without the need for state nomination or employer sponsorship.

Who Can Apply?

To be eligible for the 189 visa Australia, applicants must meet specific conditions set by the Department of Home Affairs. These include:

  • Occupation: Your job must be listed on the MLTSSL.

  • Skills Assessment: You must receive a positive skills assessment from the relevant Australian authority for your profession.

  • Points Score: A minimum score of 65 points on the points test is required. Points are awarded for age, work experience, English skills, education, and other factors.

  • Age Limit: You must be under 45 years old at the time you receive an invitation to apply.

  • English Proficiency: At least a ‘competent’ level of English is required, usually demonstrated through an IELTS or equivalent test.

  • Health and Character: All applicants must pass health examinations and provide police clearance certificates.

Simply meeting these criteria doesn’t guarantee a visa. You also need to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) and receive an invitation from the government to apply.

The Points System

The 189 visa uses a points-based system to rank applicants. Your score is based on:

  • Your age

  • Your English language proficiency

  • Your skilled work experience in and outside of Australia

  • Your highest educational qualification

  • Additional factors like partner skills or study in regional Australia

Only applicants with competitive scores are invited to apply. Higher scores increase your chances of receiving an invitation.

The Application Process

Applying for the 189 visa Australia involves multiple steps. It’s important to follow each one carefully:

  1. Check the Occupation List
    First, ensure your occupation is on the MLTSSL.

  2. Complete a Skills Assessment
    Get your qualifications and experience assessed by the relevant authority for your occupation.

  3. Take an English Test
    Unless you’re from a country where English is the first language, you’ll need to take a recognized language test like IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL.

  4. Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)
    Use the SkillSelect system to submit your EOI. You'll need to include your personal information, skills, work history, and points claim.

  5. Wait for an Invitation
    If your EOI is selected, you’ll receive an invitation to apply for the visa. Invitations are issued based on your points score and occupation demand.

  6. Lodge Your Visa Application
    Once invited, you have 60 days to complete the application. Upload all required documents and pay the visa fee.

  7. Health & Character Checks
    Undergo medical checks and provide police certificates from any country you’ve lived in for more than 12 months.

  8. Receive Your Visa Outcome
    If approved, you will be granted permanent residency under the subclass 189 visa.

189 Visa Processing Time

The processing time for the 189 visa varies depending on how many applications are being assessed and how complete your documents are. Most applicants can expect a waiting period of around 5 to 10 months from the time they lodge their visa application.

Delays are more likely if supporting documents are missing, unclear, or need further verification. To avoid this, ensure that everything you provide is accurate and up to date.

Benefits of the 189 Visa

One of the main reasons skilled workers apply for the 189 visa is because of the freedom it offers. Once granted, the visa allows you to:

  • Live and work anywhere in Australia

  • Enrol in Medicare (Australia’s public healthcare system)

  • Access education for you and your children

  • Sponsor eligible relatives for permanent residency

  • Apply for Australian citizenship when eligible

You’re not restricted to any particular state or region, which gives you flexibility in where you live and work.

Key Differences Between 189 and 190 Visas

The 189 visa and the 190 visa are often compared because both offer permanent residency to skilled workers. The main difference is that the 190 visa requires a state or territory nomination, while the 189 visa is entirely independent.

If you prefer not to be tied to a specific state and you have a competitive points score, the 189 visa may be the better option.

Final Thoughts

The 189 visa Australia is one of the most sought-after visas for skilled professionals who want permanent residency and full independence. It’s competitive, but with the right preparation, skills, and documentation, it offers a clear path to building a new life in Australia.