*Last updated on: 25 Nov 2024
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Subclass 189 - Skilled Independent Visa
Permanent Residency for Strong Applicants | Points-Tested Stream
Overview of the Subclass 189 Visa
The Subclass 189 Skilled Independent Visa provides a permanent residency option for skilled workers who are not sponsored by an employer, state, or family member. Applicants must be under 45, demonstrate competent English, and have a positive skills assessment in an occupation listed on the Medium and Long Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL). A minimum score of 65 points on the points test is required. This visa allows holders to live, work, and study in Australia indefinitely, and can include eligible family members.
Eligibility Criteria for Subclass 189 Visa Applicants
Age Requirements
Applicants must be under 45 years of age at the time of receiving an invitation to apply.
Points Test
A minimum of 65 points on the skilled points test is required to qualify.
Skills Assessment
A positive skills assessment in an occupation listed on the Medium and Long Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL).
English Language Proficiency
Applicants must demonstrate competent English through approved tests or by holding a passport from certain English-speaking countries.
Expression of Interest (EOI)
Submit an EOI through SkillSelect and receive an invitation to apply.
Health and Character Requirements
All applicants must meet health and character requirements as determined by the Australian government.
Assessing Your Occupation
General rule: To apply for the medium and long-term stream, visa applicants must have a nominated occupation listed on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL).
To apply for the short term stream, visa applicants must have a nominated occupation listed on the Short-Term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL).
Application Process
01
Submit an EOI
Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through the SkillSelect system, detailing qualifications, work experience, and language proficiency.
02
Receive an Invitation
Once submitted, your EOI will be ranked and, if successful, you may receive an invitation to apply.
03
Visa Application
Submit your visa application within 60 days of receiving the invitation, ensuring all required documentation is included.
Stay Duration
This visa allows you to reside in Australia indefinitely, with a travel component valid for five years from the date of grant. Permanent residency status starts from the date of grant (if in Australia) or upon entering Australia (if outside).
After five years, if you wish to travel in and out of Australia, you will need to apply for a Resident Return Visa (RRV) to maintain your travel rights. Permanent residency status remains intact, but an RRV is necessary for international travel beyond the initial five-year period.
Visa Costs and Fees
Primary Applicant: AUD $4,765
Secondary Applicants (18 and over): AUD $2,385
Dependent Children (under 18): AUD $1,195
An additional visa fee of $4,885 applies if an applicant does not have functional English.
Note: Fees are subject to change and should be verified before application. Additional costs may apply for health checks, police checks, and biometrics.
Processing Times
50% of applications are processed within 2 months.
90% of applications are processed within 3 months.
Note: Processing times vary based on the completeness of documentation, volume of applications and other factors. They are obtained from The Australian Department of Home Affairs website and only serve as guidance.
Key Benefits of the Subclass 189 Visa
1. Permanent Residency: Live and work in Australia indefinitely.
2. Employment Flexibility: Work for Australian companies or pursue entrepreneurial ventures.
3. Education: Enrol in further studies and educational courses.
4. Family Sponsorship: Sponsor eligible family members for permanent residency.
5. Healthcare: Access to Medicare, Australia's public healthcare system.
6. Travel: Multiple entries to and exits from Australia within five years from the date of grant.
7. Pathway to Citizenship: Become eligible to apply for Australian Citizenship after meeting residency requirements.
Family Members Eligible for Inclusion
Eligible family members may include:
1. Spouse or Partner: Legally married or de facto (including same-sex partners).
2. Dependent Children: Generally unmarried and under 18 years. Financially dependent children over 18 may also be eligible.
3. Other Dependents: In some cases, elderly parents or financially dependent relatives may be eligible.
Note: All family members must meet relevant eligibility and documentation criteria.
Your Questions Answered
What is the Subclass 189 Visa?
The Subclass 189 Visa, known as the Skilled Independent Visa, is a permanent residency visa for skilled workers who are not sponsored by an employer, state, or family member. It allows you to live, work, and study anywhere in Australia and includes eligible family members.
How do I qualify for the 189 Visa?
To be eligible, you must be under 45 years of age, have a positive skills assessment in an occupation on the Medium and Long Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL), meet English proficiency standards, and achieve a minimum score of 65 points on the points test. You also need to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) and receive an invitation to apply.
Is there a points test for the 189 Visa, and how does it work?
Yes, the 189 Visa is points-tested. Points are awarded based on factors like age, English proficiency, work experience, education, and other criteria. Achieving a higher score increases your chances of receiving an invitation, especially in high-demand occupations.
What occupations are eligible for the 189 Visa?
Only occupations listed on the Medium and Long Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) are eligible for the Subclass 189 Visa. This list is regularly updated to reflect Australia's labour market needs, so it's essential to check the latest version.
What is the process for applying for a 189 Visa?
First, you must submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect. If invited to apply, you have 60 days to lodge your application with the required documents, such as skills assessments, English test results, and health and character certifications.
Do I need to take an English language test for this visa?
Yes, most applicants need to demonstrate at least Competent English through approved tests like IELTS, PTE Academic, or equivalent. Higher scores can earn additional points on the points test.
Do I need a job offer to apply for the 189 Visa?
No, the Subclass 189 Visa is not tied to an employer, meaning you can work for any employer or even be self-employed once granted the visa.
What happens if I don’t meet the points requirement?
If you don’t meet the minimum 65 points threshold, you won’t receive an invitation to apply. Consider improving your points by enhancing your qualifications, gaining more experience, or retaking English tests.
Are there any conditions attached to the 189 Visa?
Unlike some other visas, there are no location or employer-specific conditions. You have complete freedom to live, work, and study anywhere in Australia.
What is an Expression of Interest (EOI) and why is it important?
An EOI is your initial step in applying for the 189 Visa. It’s submitted through SkillSelect and provides details about your skills, experience, and qualifications. If your EOI ranks highly, you may receive an invitation to apply for the visa.
Is there a minimum salary requirement for the 189 Visa?
No, there is no minimum salary requirement for this visa, unlike employer-sponsored visas.
Can I change my occupation once I’ve been granted a 189 Visa?
Yes, as a 189 Visa holder, you have the freedom to change occupations or industries at any time.
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Copyright © 2024 Giant Steps Immigration Services. All rights reserved.