SKILLED INDEPENDENT VISA
SUBCLASS 189
The Skilled Independent Subclass 189 visa is a visa for skilled workers to live and work in Australia permanently. This visa is available under two different streams: Points Tested Stream and Hong Kong Stream.
Disclaimers: While we strive to ensure the information on this website is accurate and up to date, the information provided on this website is intended as a general guide and was accurate at time of publication.. Migration laws and policies can change frequently. We recommend visiting the Department of Home Affairs' website for the most current information.
The visa requirements listed on this website are general guidelines and represent the most common criteria. However, additional requirements or different criteria may apply based on individual circumstances. It is important to consult with an immigration professional or the relevant authorities to ensure you meet all specific requirements for your situation.
Subclass 189 - Points Tested Stream
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
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You must have an occupation on the relevant skilled occupation list
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You must have a suitable skills assessment at time of invitation to apply for the visa
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You must have Competent English
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You must be under 45 at time of invitation to apply for the visa
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You must satisfy the points test (scoring 65 points or more)
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You must lodge an Expression of Interest (EOI) and be invited to apply for the visa
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You must meet health and character requirements
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You must apply for the visa within 60 days from the date you are invited to apply for the visa
WHAT THIS VISA ALLOWS YOU TO DO
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Live, work and study in Australia indefinitely
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Travel to and from Australia during the validity of the travel facility of the visa
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Access Australia's health care scheme - Medicare. You may find information about Medicare eligibility at Services Australia website.
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Sponsor eligible relatives to come to Australia
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Apply for Australian citizenship, if eligible.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION*
Subclass 189 visa holders should be aware that:
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They must comply with all conditions imposed on the visa applicant when the visa was granted
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They must obey Australian law
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FEES AND CHARGES
Government Visa Application Charges
First Instalment
Base visa application charge for a Subclass 189 visa in the Points Tested Stream is of AUD4,910.00​.
Additional applicant charge for those who are 18 or over is of AUD2,455.00
Additional applicant charge for those under 18 is of AUD1,230.00
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Second Instalment
Applicants 18 and over without Functional English: AUD4,885.00
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Please check the Department of Home Affairs' website for the latest information relating to visa application charges
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Please note that the visa application charge is the application fee charged by the Department to assess the application. Any professional fees or other services such as police checks, health examinations, translations, etc., are charged separately.
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View our schedule of fees for professional services here.
PROCESSING TIMES
Processing time for a Subclass 189 visa application in the Points Tested Stream is usually is between 3 and 6 months, depending on the individual circumstances and completeness of the application.
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More information may be found at the Department's website.