Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)

The Skilled Independent visa (Subclass 189) is a direct pathway to Permanent Residency for highly skilled workers. It offers the freedom to live and work anywhere in Australia without needing sponsorship from an employer, a State/Territory government, or a family member.

Key eligibility requirements

To be eligible for an invitation to apply, you must meet the following criteria:

• Have a nominated occupation listed on the Skilled Occupation List (MLTSSL)

• Obtain a suitable, positive Skills Assessment for that occupation

• Lodge an EOI and be invited to apply

• Meet the minimum pass mark of 65 points on the points test (though the invitation score may be higher)

• Be aged between 18 and 44 inclusive

• Demonstrate Competent English language ability

• Meet the essential health and character requirements

Key visa details and recent updates:

Visa Duration:
The visa length varies from 18 months up to 4 years based on your specific situation.

Application Requirement:
The primary applicant must be physically in Australia when lodging the application and must have held an eligible student visa within the six months prior to lodgement.

November 2023 Policy Changes

As of 25 November 2023, the following significant changes affect the Subclass 485 visa:

• Australian Study Requirement (ASR):
  While online study requirements have reverted to pre-COVID settings, any online study undertaken during the COVID concession period (1 February 2020 to 25 November 2023) will still count towards the ASR.

• Location at Grant:
  From 25 November 2023, the Subclass 485 visa can be granted regardless of the applicant’s location at the time of grant.

Ready to Start?

Book a consultation today for a personalised eligibility assessment of your Skilled Independent Subclass 189 visa application.