The Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189) is one of Australia’s main pathways for skilled professionals who want to live and work permanently in the country without the need for employer or state sponsorship. This visa suits applicants who can demonstrate strong qualifications, relevant experience, and competitive points under the points-tested system.
At SALIA Lawyers & Associates, we regularly guide clients like you through this process, helping you understand each requirement and prepare strong, compliant applications.
What the 189 Visa Allows You to Do
The 189 visa provides a wide range of rights and benefits. Once granted, you can:
- Live in Australia permanently
- Work and study anywhere in the country
- Access Medicare
- Attend free English classes under the Adult Migrant English Program (if eligible)
- Sponsor eligible relatives to migrate
- Apply for citizenship once you meet the criteria
- Travel in and out of Australia for five years
Although the visa is permanent, its travel facility lasts five years. After that, you may need a Resident Return Visa to keep entering Australia as a permanent resident.
This is a permanent visa. When the Department grants it, you become an Australian permanent resident on that day if you are already in Australia. If you are overseas, your permanent residence starts the moment you enter Australia using this visa. However, new permanent residents may have waiting periods before accessing certain government benefits, so understanding these early helps with planning.
Key Eligibility Requirements
Below are the key eligibility requirements for the 189 visa:
You Must Receive an Invitation to Apply
You cannot apply for a 189 visa without an invitation. To be considered, you must first submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect. The system ranks you against other candidates, and invitations are issued according to occupation demand and points.
You Need a Suitable Skills Assessment
A valid skills assessment is essential before you receive an invitation. Your assessment must:
- Match your nominated occupation
- Be no more than three years old at the time of invitation (unless the assessing authority issued it for a shorter period)
- Be based on a qualification recognised in Australia and must be from studying a course registered on CRICOS if it was obtained while holding a student visa
- Medical practitioners and legal professionals may use registration or admission documents instead of a standard skills assessment.
You Must Be Under 45
The Department requires applicants to be under 45 years of age at the time of invitation. If you turn 45 after receiving an invitation, you may still apply, but you cannot be invited if you turn 45 while waiting for an invitation.
You Must Reach at Least 65 Points
You need a minimum of 65 points to be considered. Your EOI will show your indicative score based on your claims. If invited, you must provide evidence to prove every point you have claimed. Check the points calculator.
You Need Competent English
At the time of invitation, you must demonstrate at least competent English. Higher scores can increase your points and make your EOI more competitive.
Your Occupation Must Be on the Skilled Occupation List
Only eligible skilled occupations can be nominated for a subclass 189 visa. Choosing the correct occupation is crucial, and SALIA Lawyers & Associates can help you assess which option fits your background and gives you the strongest chance of success.
You Must Meet Health, Character, and Other Requirements
The Department requires:
- Health checks for you and eligible family members
- Police clearances for applicants aged 16 and over
- Payment of any outstanding government debts
- Signing the Australian Values Statement
If you have had a previous visa cancelled or refused, this may affect your eligibility.
Entering and Living in Australia on a 189 Visa
If you receive your visa while overseas, you must enter Australia before the first entry date stated in your grant letter. On arrival, you will complete an Incoming Passenger Card and may use SmartGates if you hold a compatible passport.
Once settled, you can work, study, enroll in Medicare, sponsor family members, and eventually apply for citizenship when eligible. Your rights are the same as any permanent resident.
How SALIA Lawyers & Associates Can Help
The Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189) remains a highly competitive pathway for skilled professionals aiming for permanent residency in Australia. Preparing a strong EOI, choosing the right occupation, and presenting clear, complete evidence significantly increase your chances of receiving an invitation and a quick decision.
If you are exploring the 189 visa or want to understand your eligibility, contact SALIA Lawyers & Associates. Our team can give you personalised advice, prepare your documents properly, and guide you from EOI through to visa grant.
Disclaimer: Please note that the information provided is intended as a general guide and should not be relied upon as legal or migration advice. As migration laws and regulations can change, we recommend consulting an Australian Lawyer or Registered Migration Agent for advice tailored to your circumstances.
