Key facts
- Subclass
- 189
- Points required
- 65
- English requirement
- IELTS 6.0+ each band
- Occupation lists
- MLTSSL
Visa costs
| child fee | AUD $1,195 |
| partner fee | AUD $2,385 |
| application fee | AUD $4,765 |
Subclass 189: Common questions
What points score do I need?
You need a minimum of 65 points to submit an EOI. However, invitations in most occupations currently go to scores of 80 or above.
How long does a skills assessment take?
It varies by assessing authority — typically 2–6 months. Plan ahead, as your assessment must be valid when you lodge your visa application.
Can I include my family on the 189?
Yes. Your partner and dependent children can be included as secondary applicants. They receive full work and study rights.
Does the 189 have any conditions?
No. The 189 is an unconditional permanent residence visa. You can work anywhere in Australia and apply for citizenship after meeting the residence requirement.
How does Subclass 189 compare?
The three points-tested skilled visas trade off speed, flexibility, and location requirements. Here is how they line up against each other.
| Visa | Permanence | Points bonus | Sponsorship | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Subclass 189Skilled IndependentCurrent page | Permanent from day one | No sponsor or state nomination required | High scorers (typically 80+ points) | |
| Subclass 190Skilled Nominated | Permanent from day one | +5 | Requires state/territory nomination | Applicants close to the cut-off, flexible on location |
| Subclass 491Skilled Work Regional | Temporary (5 years), 191 path to PR after 3 years | +15 | Requires state/regional sponsor or eligible relative | Anyone open to regional Australia (biggest boost) |
Overview
The Skilled Independent visa is a points-tested permanent visa for skilled workers who are not sponsored by an employer or state government. It is one of the most competitive visas Australia offers and grants permanent residency from the moment it is granted.
Who is this visa for?
- Skilled workers with an occupation on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL)
- Applicants aged 18–44 with a strong points score (typically 80+ to be competitive)
- Those with superior English — native speakers or IELTS 8+ — for maximum points
- Professionals with a positive skills assessment
- Anyone who does not want or need employer or state government sponsorship
Requirements
Eligibility Requirements
- Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) in SkillSelect
- Occupation must be on the MLTSSL
- Receive an invitation to apply (ITA) — issued based on your points score
- Hold a positive skills assessment from the relevant authority
- Score at least 65 points on the points test (in practice, most invited applicants score 80–90+)
- Meet health and character requirements
- English: IELTS 6.0+ in each band (or equivalent)
Points Breakdown
| Factor | Points | |--------|--------| | Age 25-32 | 30 | | Age 33-39 | 25 | | English (Superior - IELTS 8+) | 20 | | English (Proficient - IELTS 7+) | 10 | | 8+ years skilled employment | 15 | | Australian qualification | 5-20 | | Partner skills | 5-10 |
Application process
Application Process
- Get a skills assessment from the relevant authority for your occupation
- Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) in SkillSelect
- Wait for an invitation — SkillSelect rounds are held regularly
- Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) — you have 60 days to lodge
- Submit the visa application with all documents via ImmiAccount
- Undergo health examinations and provide police clearances
- Await the decision — processing takes 12–24 months on average
Quick eligibility check
Answer 3 questions to see if the Subclass 189 might suit you.
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Important: Australian.com provides general information only and does not constitute migration advice. Only a registered migration agent (MARA) or Australian legal practitioner can provide immigration advice. Information is current as of the date published but immigration law changes frequently. Verify all details with the Department of Home Affairs.