189 Skilled Independent Visa
189 Skilled Independent Visa Overview
The 189 visa is a skilled independent migration visa that does not require sponsorship from a state government or a relative. As a permanent residency visa, it allows the holder and their family members to live, work, and study in Australia while enjoying access to the country’s Medicare healthcare system. Applicants must have an occupation listed on the MLTSSL (Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List) and achieve a minimum EOI (Expression of Interest) score of 65 points.
189 Visa Eligibility Criteria
- Age: Under 45 years old.
- Occupation: Must be listed on the MLTSSL (Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List)；
- Skills Assessment: Must obtain a positive skills assessment for the nominated occupation；
- EOI & Invitation: Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) and receive an invitation to apply.
- EOI Points Score: Minimum 65 points required.
- English Proficiency: Achieve Competent English level (IELTS 6.0 in each band or equivalent, valid for 3 years).
- Health & Character Requirements: Must meet health and character requirements, including a police clearance certificate.
189 Visa Application Process
- Self-assessment: Ensure your EOI score is at least 65 points (some occupations may require higher points)；
- Select the appropriate occupation from the MLTSSL list；
- Skills Assessment: Obtain a positive skills assessment for the selected occupation；
- Prepare for English Test: Take an English proficiency test；
- Achieve the required IELTS score: Obtain a minimum of IELTS 6.0 in each band.
- Register and submit your EOI through the SkillSelect system；
- Receive an invitation to apply for the visa；
- Submit the visa application within 60 days of receiving the invitation；
- Complete medical examinations and submit required documents. If your spouse’s IELTS score does not meet the requirements, pay the language fee.
- Visa Grant: Once your application is approved, the visa will be granted.
189 Visa Processing Time
- Skills Assessment: Approximately 1-3 months
- Visa Processing: Approximately 8-11 months
Visa Fees
- Primary Applicant: AU$4,045
- Dependent (18 years and above): AU$2,020
- Dependent (under 18 years): AU$1,015
- Language Training Fee: For spouse or dependent (18 years and above) with IELTS below 4.5: AU$4,885 per person
Note: The above information is subject to the final policies and fees published by the Australian Department of Home Affairs.