Australian visa, citizenship and review pathways
Points-tested skilled permanent visa

Subclass 189 Skilled Independent visa

The Subclass 189 visa is a points-tested permanent visa for invited skilled applicants. Assessment must consider occupation, skills assessment, age, English, points score, invitation competitiveness, health and character.

No sponsorIndependent pathway
EOIInvitation required
SkillsSkills assessment needed
PointsCompetitive score matters
Overview

What this visa is used for

This visa is not granted simply because an applicant meets the minimum points threshold. The applicant must receive an invitation and satisfy criteria at the relevant time, including occupation and skills requirements.

01

Eligibility first

Confirm the pathway fits the applicant’s circumstances before preparing documents.

02

Evidence-led

Evidence must address the actual criteria, not merely provide general background material.

03

Timing matters

Visa status, deadlines and document validity can affect strategy and risk.

04

Dashboard flow

Assessment, payment and final outcome should stay connected to the same client account.

Core criteria

Key eligibility issues to assess

This section identifies the main issues that should be checked before a client proceeds with the pathway.

Primary requirements

  • Eligible occupation and positive skills assessment
  • Expression of Interest and invitation
  • Age, English and points requirements
  • Health, character and family-unit considerations

Common risk issues

  • Points score not competitive
  • Skills assessment mismatch
  • Occupation not suitable
  • Incorrect points claim
Client decision logic

When to seek advice before lodging

Professional guidance is recommended where eligibility is unclear, evidence is weak, or prior immigration history may affect the application.

Eligibility concern

Criteria not clearly met

If any primary criterion is uncertain, the matter should be reviewed before relying on this pathway.

Evidence concern

Documents are incomplete

Weak, inconsistent or missing evidence can create refusal risk even where the pathway appears suitable.

Timing concern

Visa status or deadline issue

Current visa status, expiry dates, bridging issues or decision deadlines should be checked early.

Proceed with a structured Subclass 189 Skilled Independent visa assessment

Complete the assessment form when the pathway appears relevant. The form is designed to collect facts before account login, payment and dashboard access.