The Subclass 189 visa is a permanent residency visa for skilled workers who are not sponsored by an employer or family member, but who have the skills and qualifications in demand in the Australian labor market. The visa allows holders to live and work in Australia indefinitely and access a range of benefits and services, including health care and education. To be eligible for the Subclass 189 visa, applicants must meet the following requirements:

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• Obtain a positive skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority for their nominated occupation
• Score at least 65 points on the points-tested visa assessment
• Meet the English language requirement
• Be under the age of 45
• Meet health and character requirements.

The Subclass 189 visa is a highly competitive program, with a limited number of places available each year. Therefore, it is important for applicants to meet the requirements and to have a well-prepared and compelling application to increase their chances of success.

Features

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This stream is for Point-tested skilled workers who are not sponsored by an employer or family member or nominated by a state or territory government.

• This visa allows you to live and work in Australia as a permanent resident. 
• For the Skilled Independent (Points-tested) stream, you must submit an expression of Interest.
• All New Zealanders who desire to migrate need to apply under the Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189) New Zealand stream.

Eligibility

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• You will need an Australia-recognised skills assessment of your occupation.
• You will need to submit a letter of Expression of Interest and be invited by the authorities to apply.
• You will need points test pass marks related to your occupation.
• You will have to be between the age of 18 to 44 years. 
• You will need to prove your English language ability..
• You will need to meet all health and character requirements.

Can I Apply for 189 in Australia or offshore?

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• If your current visa is refused or cancelled then you will not be eligible to apply for the 189 visa while you are onshore in Australia
• If you are to lodge your Subclass 189 Skilled Independent Visa from within Australia, you will need to hold a Bridging A, B or C visa. This bridging visa will allow you to remain in Australia during the processing of your visa application.
• If your current visa is refused or cancelled then you will not be eligible to apply for the 189 visa while you are onshore in Australia

Can I Apply for 189 in Australia or offshore?

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• How long can I stay?
  Indefinite stay in Australia.
• Can I study and work?
  Yes, you can Work and study in Australia.

• Would I be eligible to enrol in Medicare?
  You can enrol in Medicare, Australia’s medical and spending system.
• Can I sponsor visas Sponsor a relative who is eligible for permanent residency?
  Yes, you can sponsor eligible relative for permanent residence.
• Will I be able to travel?
  Yes, you can enter and leave Australia as many times as you like for up to five years after your visa is issued.

Our VDC team is experienced in managing skilled migration visa applications, and can help you:

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• Prepare your relative sponsorship application
• Lodging and monitoring your visa application
• Correspond with skills assessing authorities and the Department of Immigration until grant
• Prepare your relative sponsorship application

Start your application and Book your free consultation to assess your eligibility for a Skilled independent Subclass 189 visa application.