Subclass 189 – Skilled Independent Visa

What Is the Subclass 189 Skilled Independent Visa?

The Subclass 189 Skilled Independent Visa is a permanent residency visa for Australia designed for skilled workers who want to live and work anywhere in Australia without needing sponsorship from an employer, state/territory government, or family member. It’s a points-tested visa where you must score at least 65 points based on your age, education, English proficiency, and work experience. If approved, you and your eligible family members can permanently live, work, study, and access Australia’s public healthcare (Medicare) anywhere in the country.

Benefits of Subclass 189 Visa

1. Permanent residency – Live, work, and study in Australia indefinitely.
2. No sponsorship required – No need for employer, state/territory, or family sponsorship.
3. Live anywhere in Australia – No regional living restrictions or state commitments.
4. Access to Medicare – Use Australia’s public healthcare system.
5. Pathway to citizenship – Eligible to apply for Australian citizenship after 4 years (including 12 months as PR).
6. Sponsor family members – Bring eligible relatives (spouse/partner and dependent children) and later sponsor them for PR.
7. Travel freedom – Multiple entry travel facility for 5 years (renewable).
8. Free English language training – Access to the Adult Migrant English Program.
9. Access to social services – Receive social benefits on par with Australian citizens.

Subclass 189 Visa Eligibility Criteria

Basic Eligibility Requirements

• Age: Between 18 and 44 years old at the time of invitation.
• Occupation: Your nominated occupation must be on Australia’s Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL).
• Skills Assessment: Get a positive skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority for your occupation.
• English Language: Have at least Competent English (IELTS 6.0 in each band or equivalent).
• Points Test: Score at least 65 points on the points test.
• Health & Character: Pass medical examinations and provide police clearance certificates.
• Invitation: Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect and receive an invitation to apply.

Points Test Factors

Maximum combined points for overseas + Australian work experience: 20 points.

Occupation List for Subclass 189 Visa

The Subclass 189 visa requires your occupation to be on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL), which contains 212 occupations that Australia needs.

Key MLTSSL Categories:

Important Notes:

• Your occupation must match the ANZSCO code and job description exactly.
• Each occupation has a specific skills assessing authority you must contact.
• The complete list with all 212 occupations is available on the Australian Government Immigration website.
• Check the official list regularly as it can be updated.

Difference Between Subclass 189, 190 & 491 Visas

SkillSelect & Expression of Interest (EOI)

What Is SkillSelect?
SkillSelect is the Australian Government’s free online system for skilled workers who want to migrate to Australia. It helps manage skilled migration by collecting information about your skills, qualifications, and experience. You must be invited through SkillSelect to apply for Subclass 189, 190, or 491 visas.

Expression of Interest (EOI) Process

1. Create Account – Set up a SkillSelect account and get your EOI ID number.
2. Prepare Documents – Get a positive skills assessment and complete English test (IELTS/PTE).
3. Submit EOI – Fill in your personal details, occupation, education, work experience, and points score.
4. Wait for Invitation – Your EOI is valid for 2 years; invitations are sent based on points and occupation demand.
5. Apply for Visa – If invited, submit your visa application within 60 days through ImmiAccount.

Application Process for Subclass 189

Step 1: Check Eligibility

Confirm your occupation is on the MLTSSL, you’re under 45 years old, and you can score at least 65 points.

Step 2: Get Skills Assessment

Obtain a positive skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority for your occupation.

Step 3: Take English Test

Complete IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL with at least Competent English (IELTS 6.0+ in each band).

Step 4: Submit EOI

Create a SkillSelect profile and submit your Expression of Interest with all details about your skills, experience, and points.

Step 5: Receive Invitation

Wait for an invitation from SkillSelect based on your points ranking. Your EOI is valid for 2 years.

Step 6: Lodge Visa Application

Within 60 days of invitation, submit your visa application via ImmiAccount with all documents and pay the fee.

Step 7: Get Visa Grant

After 3–6 months of processing, receive your permanent residency visa with full work rights in Australia.

Why Choose Us for Subclass 189 Visa Assistance?

As leading Australia visa consultants in Dubai, CanApprove UAE offers expert guidance for skilled professionals seeking Australia PR through the Subclass 189 Visa pathway.With over 28 years of immigration experience, our team helps assess your eligibility, maximize your points score, and develop a strong migration strategy tailored to your profile.We provide end-to-end assistance, from skills assessment and English test guidance to Expression of Interest (EOI) submission and visa application support.Our transparent process, professional expertise, and commitment to client success make us a trusted partner for your Australia PR journey.