Work and Skilled Visa
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Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) – Permanent Residency for Skilled Professionals
The Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) is a points-tested permanent residency visa for skilled workers who are not sponsored by an employer, family member, or state/territory government. It allows qualified professionals to live and work anywhere in Australia, making it one of the most flexible and sought-after visas under the General Skilled Migration (GSM) program.
Key Benefits of the Subclass 189 Visa
Permanent Residency
Live in Australia indefinitely with full rights to work, study, and access public services.
Freedom of Location
No restrictions on where you live or work in Australia.
Access to Medicare
Enrol in Australia’s public healthcare system.
Pathway to Citizenship
Apply for Australian citizenship after meeting residency requirements.
Sponsor Family Members
Sponsor eligible relatives for permanent residency.
Include Family in Application
Spouse and dependent children can be included in the same visa application.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the Subclass 189 visa, you must meet the following requirements:
01
Age
Be between 18 and 45 years old at the time of invitation.
02
Occupation
Your occupation must be on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL).
03
Skills Assessment
Obtain a positive skills assessment from the relevant authority.
04
Health & Character Requirements
Complete medical checks and provide police clearance certificates.
05
English Proficiency
Demonstrate competent English (e.g., IELTS 6 or PTE 50 in each band).
06
Points Test
Score at least 65 points based on age, education, work experience, and English ability.
07
Health & Character
Pass medical exams and provide police clearance certificates.
08
Invitation to Apply:
Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) via SkillSelect and receive an invitation.
Visa Conditions
Permanent Residency
You can live, work, and study in Australia without restrictions.
Sponsor Obligations
You can sponsor eligible family members for permanent residency.
Compliance with Australian Laws
You must respect and abide by Australian laws and values.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The base fee is AUD $4,640 for the main applicant. Additional adult: AUD $2,320; child: AUD $1,160. Extra fees may apply for health checks or low English proficiency.
Processing times range from 5 to 8 months, depending on application completeness and demand.
Yes, you can include your spouse and dependent children
No, the Subclass 189 visa does not require employer sponsorship.
You must score at least 65 points, though higher scores improve your chances of receiving an invitation.
Yes, you can apply from inside or outside Australia, provided you meet all eligibility criteria.
You become a permanent resident, with access to Medicare, work rights, and a pathway to citizenship.
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