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Subclass 189
Skilled Independent visa
A permanent, points-tested visa for invited skilled workers who are not sponsored by an employer, a state or territory, or a family member.
Who this visa is for
Highly skilled workers with an occupation on the long-term skilled occupation list and a competitive points score.
- Visa type
- Permanent
- Where you apply
- In or outside Australia
- Length of stay
- Permanently
- Work
- Full work and study rights
Key requirements
- You are invited to apply after lodging an Expression of Interest in SkillSelect
- You are under 45 when invited
- Your occupation is on the relevant skilled occupation list
- You have a suitable skills assessment for that occupation
- You have at least competent English
- You score at least 65 points on the points test
- Health and character requirements
What this visa lets you do
- Live, work and study anywhere in Australia permanently
- Medicare
- Sponsor eligible relatives for permanent residence
- A pathway to Australian citizenship
How it works
Applying for the 189 visa
We handle each step and keep you informed, from the first assessment to the decision.
Skills assessment and English
Get a positive skills assessment and the English test result you need.
Expression of Interest
Lodge an EOI in SkillSelect with accurate points claims.
Invitation
Wait for an invitation in an invitation round.
Visa application
Apply within 60 days of the invitation, with evidence for every point claimed.
Health, character and grant
Complete health examinations and police checks and respond to any requests.
Documents you'll usually need
- Positive skills assessment for your nominated occupation
- English test results
- Passport and birth certificate
- Qualifications and academic transcripts
- Employment references, contracts and payslips for claimed work experience
- Evidence for any other points claimed
- Police certificates and health examinations, when requested
Documents not in English need accredited translations. The Department may ask for others depending on your circumstances.
Questions
189 visa questions
How many points do I need?
The minimum is 65, but invitations usually go to much higher scores, depending on the occupation and the round. Use our points calculator for an estimate.
Is the points test changing?
The Government has announced an overhaul of the points test. Until it starts, the current points table applies.
General information only, current at November 2026. Visa criteria, fees and processing change often, including each 1 July. Book a consultation for advice on your situation.
Thinking about the 189?
Book a consultation and we'll check whether you meet every criterion before you apply.