If you are a skilled professional planning to settle in Australia permanently without depending on an employer, state, or family sponsorship, then the Skilled Independent Visa Subclass 189 is one of the strongest options available to you. This visa is designed for people whose skills are in demand in Australia and who can qualify through a points-based system.

Through the Skilled Independent Visa Subclass 189, you can live, work, and build your future anywhere in Australia with complete freedom. Let me walk you through how this visa works, who can apply, what benefits you get, and how you can improve your chances of success.

What Is Skilled Independent Visa Subclass 189?

The Skilled Independent Visa Subclass 189 is a permanent residency visa under Australia’s General Skilled Migration program. It is meant for skilled workers who are not sponsored by an employer, state government, or family member.

To apply, you first submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through Skill Select. Based on your points score and occupation demand, the Australian Government may invite you to apply. Once approved, you become a permanent resident of Australia.

This visa gives you complete independence, which is why it is considered one of the most competitive PR visas.

Why Skilled Independent Visa 189 Is Highly Preferred

Many applicants choose the Australia Skilled Independent Visa because it offers flexibility that other visas do not. You are free to live in any city, change jobs, or even start your own business without restrictions.

With the Skilled Independent Visa Australia, you are not tied to any employer or location. This freedom makes it ideal for professionals who want long-term stability and growth.

Benefits of the Skilled Independent Subclass 189 Visa

This visa allows you and your family to:

• Live and work in Australia indefinitely
• Study full-time in Australia at domestic student rates
• Access subsidized healthcare through Medicare
• Receive certain social security benefits (as per eligibility)
• Sponsor eligible family members for Australian visas
• Travel in and out of Australia freely for five years
• Apply for Australian citizenship after meeting residency conditions
  

These benefits make the Skilled Independent Visa Subclass 189 one of the most valuable permanent residency pathways.

Skilled Independent Visa Subclass 189 Eligibility Criteria

To apply for the Skilled Independent Visa Subclass 189, you must meet all the eligibility requirements below:

• Your age must be between 18 and 44 years at the time of invitation
• Your occupation must be listed on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL)
• You must obtain a positive skills assessment from the relevant authority
• You must score at least 65 points in the points test
• You must have competent English
• You must submit an EOI and receive an invitation
• You must meet health and character requirements
• You must not have any prior Australian visa refusals or cancellations
  

Meeting these Subclass 189 visa requirements is essential before moving forward.

Skilled Independent Visa Subclass 189 Points Test

The Skilled Independent Visa Subclass 189 works on a points-based system. Although the minimum requirement is 65 points, many successful applicants score higher due to competition.

Points are awarded based on:

• Age
• English language proficiency
• Skilled work experience (Australian and overseas)
• Educational qualifications
• Australian study requirement
• Specialist education qualifications
• Partner skills or single applicant status

If you want to improve your chances under the Australia Skilled Independent Visa, aiming for higher points is always recommended.

Step-by-Step Application Process for Subclass 189 Visa

Step 1: Check Your Occupation

Confirm that your occupation appears on the MLTSSL and matches your work experience and qualifications.

Step 2: Skills Assessment

Apply for a skills assessment with the relevant assessing authority. This step is mandatory.

Step 3: Submit Expression of Interest (EOI)

Create your EOI through SkillSelect. Your profile will be ranked against other applicants.

Step 4: Receive Invitation to Apply

If your points score is competitive, you will receive an invitation during an invitation round.

Step 5: Lodge Your Visa Application

Once invited, you must submit your visa application within 60 days along with supporting documents.

Step 6: Visa Grant

After approval, you receive permanent residency through the Skilled Independent Visa Subclass 189.

Can You Apply From Inside or Outside Australia?

You can apply for the Skilled Independent Visa Subclass 189 whether you are inside Australia or overseas. If you apply from within Australia, you must hold a valid substantive or bridging visa.

Skilled Independent Visa Subclass 189 Processing Time

Processing times vary depending on application quality and demand:

• Around 50% of applications are processed within 4–6 months
• Up to 90% of applications may take 12–17 months

Delays can happen due to health checks, character checks, or high volumes of applications.

Cost of Skilled Independent Visa Subclass 189

The base government fee for the Skilled Independent Visa Subclass 189 starts from AUD 4,910 for the main applicant. Additional charges apply for dependents.

Other costs may include:

• Skills assessment fees
• English language test fees
• Medical examinations
• Police clearance certificates

Including Family Members in Subclass 189 Visa

You can include your immediate family members in your application:

• Spouse or de facto partner
• Dependent children or stepchildren

All family members must meet health and character requirements. Once granted, they enjoy the same PR benefits as you.

Why the 189 Visa Is Competitive in 2025

The Skilled Independent Visa Subclass 189 is highly competitive due to limited invitations and high demand. Many occupations now require points well above the minimum threshold.

Applicants with superior English scores, strong work experience, and partner points have better chances of receiving an invitation under the Skilled Independent Visa Australia program.

How to Improve Your Chances of Success

You can improve your chances by:

• Achieving Superior English test scores
• Gaining additional skilled work experience
• Claiming eligible partner points
• Selecting the correct ANZSCO occupation
• Keeping your EOI updated with new achievements

Proper planning plays a crucial role in success.

Conclusion

The Skilled Independent Visa Subclass 189 offers skilled professionals a direct and independent pathway to Australian permanent residency. While competition is strong, the rewards are significant-long-term stability, freedom, and access to one of the best lifestyles in the world.

If you meet the eligibility criteria and plan your application carefully, the Australia Skilled Independent Visa can help you build a secure future in Australia.

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