The Skilled Independent Visa is designed for highly skilled workers whose occupation appears on the Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL). This points-tested permanent visa allows successful applicants to live and work in Australia indefinitely, without the need for sponsorship by an employer, state, or family member.

Once granted, visa holders can:

• Work and study anywhere in Australia without restriction
• Live permanently in Australia with access to most benefits available to permanent residents
• Change employers or occupations freely
• Apply for Australian citizenship once eligible

The Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189) is similar to the Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190), however, unlike the 190 visa, it does not require nomination by an Australian State or Territory government. Both visas are points-tested through the SkillSelect system and require an invitation to apply. Applicants must also have their skills formally assessed by the relevant assessing authority for their occupation.

Application Flexibility. You do not need to be in Australia to apply for the subclass 189 visa. This makes it an attractive option for skilled workers outside Australia who wish to apply directly for permanent residency.

Including Family Members. A subclass 189 visa application may include eligible family members. Once granted, all secondary applicants enjoy the same permanent residency rights as the primary applicant, including the ability to live, work, and study in Australia without restriction.

Eligibility Requirements for Skilled Independent Visa (189)
To qualify for a Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189), applicants must meet the following criteria:

General Requirements

• Hold a valid passport.
• Be under 45 years of age at the time you receive an invitation to apply.
• Meet the English language requirements.
• Meet health and character requirements.
• Sign the Australian Values Statement.
• SkillSelect & Points Test
• Score at least 65 points in the SkillSelect points test.
• Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) in SkillSelect and receive an invitation to apply.

Occupation & Skills

• Have an occupation listed on the Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL).
• Obtain a positive skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority.
• Hold all required qualifications and/or licences for the nominated occupation.

Benefits of Skilled Independent Visa (189)
The Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) offers skilled workers a direct pathway to permanent residency in Australia, without the need for employer or State/Territory sponsorship. Once granted, visa holders can remain in Australia indefinitely and may apply for Australian citizenship when eligible.

Key benefits include:

• Permanent residency for you and eligible family members included in your application.
• Unrestricted work, study, and travel rights for all visa holders.
• Freedom to work in any occupation and for any employer, without sponsorship obligations.
• Access to Medicare and Australia’s public healthcare system.
• Access to subsidised education and training opportunities.
• Multiple travel rights, allowing you to enter and leave Australia freely while your visa is valid.