Australia Subclass 189 Visa (Skilled Independent Visa)
If you are planning to migrate to Australia permanently without needing employer sponsorship or state nomination, the Subclass 189 Skilled Independent Visa is one of the best Australian PR pathways. This visa is designed for skilled professionals who meet Australia’s occupational and skill requirements under the points-based immigration system.
This guide explains eligibility, process, points system, processing time, fees, occupations, salary expectations, and benefits of the Australia Subclass 189 visa.
What Is Australia Subclass 189 Visa?
The Skilled Independent Visa – Subclass 189 is a permanent residence visa for skilled workers invited by the Australian Government. It is based on a points system and does not require:
- Employer sponsorship
- State nomination
- Family sponsorship
Once granted, the applicant becomes a Australia Permanent Resident (PR)
Key Benefits of the Subclass 189 Visa
- Permanent Residency from approval date
- Live, work, and study anywhere in Australia
- Access to Medicare (public healthcare)
- Apply for Australian citizenship after eligibility period
- Sponsor eligible family members
- Free schooling for dependent children
- No requirement to live in a specific state or region
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet the following criteria to apply:
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Age Limit | Must be below 45 years |
| Points | Minimum 65 points |
| English Language | At least Competent English (IELTS 6 in each band or equivalent) |
| Skill Assessment | Positive skills assessment from a relevant authority |
| Occupation List | Must be on the Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) |
| Invitation | Must receive an invitation via SkillSelect |
| Health & Character Check | Mandatory |
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Check eligibility and minimum points.
- Choose occupation from the Skilled Occupation List (SOL/MLTSSL).
- Obtain a positive skill assessment from the relevant authority.
- Take an accepted English language test (IELTS, PTE, TOEFL).
- Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) in SkillSelect.
- Wait for the Invitation to Apply (ITA).
- Lodge final visa application online.
- Complete medical and police clearance formalities.
- Receive visa grant and move to Australia as a Permanent Resident.
Australia PR Points System (Subclass 189 Points Table)
| Criteria | Maximum Points |
|---|---|
| Age | 30 |
| English Language Skills | 20 |
| Skilled Work Experience (Overseas + Australia) | 20 |
| Qualification | 20 |
| Partner Skills | 10 |
| Australian Study Requirement | 5 |
| NAATI / Professional Year | 5 |
| Regional Study or Specialist Qualification | 5 |
Minimum Points Required: 65, but competitive selection usually starts from 85 to 95 points depending on occupation.
Processing Time (2025 Estimates)
| Application Category | Time Taken |
|---|---|
| 50% of applications | 6 to 8 months |
| 90% of applications | 10 to 14 months |
Processing time varies based on occupation demand, completeness of documents, and points score.
Subclass 189 Visa Fee (Approx.)
| Applicant Type | Fee |
|---|---|
| Primary Applicant | AUD 4,640 |
| Secondary Applicant (18+) | AUD 2,320 |
| Child Applicant (<18) | AUD 1,160 |
Additional charges apply for biometrics, health checks, and skill assessment.
Occupation List Eligible for Australia Subclass 189 Visa
Some of the in-demand occupations include:
Information Technology
- Software Developer
- System Analyst
- ICT Business Analyst
- Cyber Security Specialist
Engineering
- Civil Engineer
- Mechanical Engineer
- Electrical Engineer
- Petroleum Engineer
Healthcare
- Registered Nurse
- Medical Laboratory Technician
- Physiotherapist
- Dentist
Finance & Business
- Accountant
- Auditor
- Financial Analyst
Construction & Trades
- Plumbers
- Welders
- Carpenters
- Electricians
For full occupation availability, check the MLTSSL list updated by the Australian Government.
Average Salary in Australia for Skilled Migrants
Salary varies based on industry, experience, and location. Below is the average salary range:
| Occupation Category | Expected Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| IT and Software | AUD 90,000 to 140,000 |
| Engineering | AUD 85,000 to 135,000 |
| Healthcare | AUD 75,000 to 130,000 |
| Accounting and Finance | AUD 70,000 to 120,000 |
| Trades (Electricians, Plumbers, etc.) | AUD 65,000 to 110,000 |
Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, and Brisbane offer the best employment opportunities.
Work Rights and Opportunities with 189 Visa
Once approved:
- You can work full-time in any job.
- No employer sponsorship is required.
- You can switch employers freely.
- You get equal workplace rights as Australian citizens (excluding voting rights).
Why Subclass 189 Is Popular
Subclass 189 offers freedom, flexibility, and security compared to employer-tied visas. It is ideal for skilled professionals seeking a stable future and long-term benefits in Australia
The Australia Subclass 189 Skilled Independent Visa is an excellent pathway for skilled workers looking to live and work in Australia permanently. Meeting eligibility criteria, securing high points, and having an in-demand occupation are key factors for receiving an invitation.
If you plan to apply, it is recommended to begin early with skill assessment and English preparation, as invitations are competitive.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Australia Subclass 189 Visa
The Subclass 189 Visa is a permanent residency visa for skilled workers who are invited by the Australian Government based on the points-based Skill Select system. It does not require employer sponsorship, state nomination, or family sponsorship.
The minimum requirement is 65 points, but competitive selection generally starts from 85 to 95 points, depending on your occupation and applicant ranking.
Processing time typically ranges between 6 to 14 months, depending on the applicant profile, occupation demand, background checks, and document completeness.
Yes. After living in Australia for the required period (typically 4 years with at least 12 months as a PR), you may apply for Australian citizenship, subject to other eligibility requirements.