189 Visa: Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)
The Subclass 189 visa is a points-based skilled migration visa that allows individuals to move to Australia without the need for employer sponsorship or support from family members, state, or territory authorities.
What is the 189 Visa?
This visa is designed for skilled professionals who want to live and work in Australia independently. To apply, you must choose an occupation listed on the Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL). This list features occupations that are in high demand across Australia, including fields like trades, healthcare, engineering, education, and IT.
The list is updated periodically, so it’s essential to check if your occupation is still eligible.
Eligibility Requirements
You must meet the skill assessment criteria for your nominated occupation and score enough points to receive an invitation to apply for the visa. The minimum passing score is 65 points, but the actual score needed can vary based on competition from other applicants and the number of invitations issued by the Department of Home Affairs.
Points Breakdown
Points are awarded based on several factors, including:
- Age (you must be under 45)
- Qualifications
- Relevant skilled work experience (both overseas and Australian experience can contribute to your points)
- Australian study (additional points if your study was undertaken in a regional area)
- English language proficiency (certain passport holders, like those from the UK, Canada, and Ireland, may be exempt from the English test, though this means no points are awarded for this category)
- Partner points (additional points if your partner meets certain criteria)
The point score needed can vary, so be sure to assess your situation carefully before applying.
