Exploring Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) for Australia PR in 2025

The Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) is one the most sought after pathways for skilled professionals seeking options to work and live permanently in Australia. As per the Migration program 2024 - 2025 a total of 16,900 visas were allocated by the Australian government.

This skilled migration Australia visa type is designed to attract individuals with in demand skills, by offering numerous benefits that makes it a preferred choice for expats from all around the world. In today’s article we will delve into the details about Subclass 189 visa Australia, including benefits, requirements, application process and more.

What is Skilled Independent Visa Australia?

The Subclass 189 visa is a points based permanent visa type that allows skilled workers to work and live in Australia independently i.e. without the need of employer, state, or family sponsorship.

The Skilled Independent Visa is a popular visa pathway among professionals whose skills are listed on the Australia Occupation List.

5 Best Benefits of Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)

The benefits of obtaining a Skilled Independent Visa Subclass 189 for working professionals include the following:

1. Permanent Residency: The 189 visa grants applicants and their family members the right to live, work and study in Australia Indefinitely.
2. No Sponsor Needed: Unlike the other Australia PR visas, the subclass 189 visa does not require employer or state sponsorship for eligibility
3. Pathway to Citizenship: The 189 visa Australia holders are eligible to apply for citizenship upon fulfilling the residency requirements.
4. Freedom to Movement: The subclass 189 visa Australia holders are free to travel to anf from Australia as often as they wish during their visa validity.
5. Healthcare and Benefits: 189 visa holders are also eligible to avail Australia Healthcare system (Medicare) and certain Social security benefits.

Australia Point Scores Requirements for Subclass 189 Visa

Applicants aiming to apply for the 189 visa Australia would need to secure no less than 65 points on the Australia PR calculator. Below mentioned is the criteria and maximum points allocated for each factor:

Also Explore: Australia Point System for Subclass 188, 189, 190 and 491

Subclass 189 Visa Australia Requirements

The eligibility criteria for Subclass 189 Skilled Independent Visa, is simple compared to visas requiring state or territory sponsorships. The factors considered for the criteria include:

• Applicant age must be below 45 years
• Applicant job must be listed in Australia Occupation List
• Applicant must meet the 65 points score requirements as per the program
• Applicant must meet language proficiency requirements
• Applicant must have received the invitation to apply for the visa
• Applicant must meet the health and character requirements

Documents Needed to Apply for Skilled Independent Visa Subclass 189

Applicants aiming to apply for the Skilled Independent Visa Subclass 189 would need to provide the necessary documentation to prove their eligibility. These include:

• Identity Documents: Passport, Birth Certificate, and other official IDs.
• Skill Assessment: Positive skill assessment from relevant assessing authority
• English Proficiency: Must have provide IELTS or TOEFL or PTE Academic test results
• Express of Interest: Applicants need to submit their EOI Australia via the SkillSelect system.
• Health and Character Requirements: Positive medical and police clearance certificates need to be presented.
• Proof of Work Experience: Relevant work experience certificates, employer references, payslips etc.
• Educational Qualifications: Provide degree certificates along with academic transcripts.

Quick Reads:

• TOEFL vs IELTS - Which is Better?
• PTE vs IELTS: Which is Best for Your Immigration?

How to Apply for Skilled Independent Visa Subclass 189?

Now that you have learnt about Subclass 189 conditions and requirements let us also delve into the details about how to apply for subclass 189 visa. The 189 visa application process is as follows:

Step 1: Check and verify whether your occupation is on the skilled occupation list, obtain a positive skill assessment and calculate your Australia PR eligibility.

Step 2: Once you have ensured that your PR eligibility score is above 65 points, submit an Express of Interest in SkillSelect.

Step 3: Wait for your Invitation to Apply for the 189 visa from Department of Home Affairs

Step 4: Gather all the required documents needed to apply for Subclass 189 Skilled Independent Visa

Step 5: Ensure to submit your 189 visa application within 60 days of receiving the invitation and pay the applicable australian visa subclass 189 fees.

Step 6: Once you have received the 189 visa approval, you and your family are ready to fly to Australia.

Also Explore: Comprehensive Guide to Australia PR Process 2025

Cost of Subclass189 Skilled Independent Visa Australia

The applicable fees for Australia visa Subclass 189 to apply from India varies based on number of applicants. This include:

Also Explore: Understanding the Australia Skill Assessment Fee

Subclass 189 Visa Processing Time

The Skilled Independent Visa Subclass 189 processing time might vary depending on applicant’s application completeness and the applications inflow generally between 3-6 months.

The current 189 visa processing time as of January 2025 is within standard processing timeframe which is as follows

As of 2024 the Australian Department of Home Affairs has reported a surge in the applications due to the increased demand for skilled workers. So it is crucial to ensure your application is complete and accurate to avoid delays.

Aspire to Work in Australia? Apply for Subclass 189 Visa

The subclass 189 visa Australia offers an excellent opportunity for skilled professionals to establish a permanent life in Australia (live, work, and study). By meeting the 189 visa requirements and preparing a strong application, applicants can maximise their chances of securing it.

Start your journey towards Australian permanent residency today. Seek immigration guidance from trusted partners like GetGIS. Our team is well versed to facilitate all your Australia immigration needs from eligibility check (Australia PR Calculator), documents sorting, visa application process, to post landing assistance, we ensure your seamless integration into Australia.

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