Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)

Live and Work Permanently in Australia

The Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) is a permanent visa for invited skilled workers. It allows successful applicants to live, work and study anywhere in Australia without employer, state or family sponsorship.

O’Haire Legal can assess your eligibility, calculate your points and assist with the skills assessment, Expression of Interest and visa application process.

Find out whether you may qualify for a subclass 189 visa.

What Does the Subclass 189 Visa Allow?

If granted, the subclass 189 visa allows you and eligible family members included in the application to:

  • Live in Australia permanently

  • Work and study anywhere in Australia

  • Enrol in Medicare

  • Sponsor eligible relatives for permanent residence

  • Travel to and from Australia for five years

  • Apply for Australian citizenship if eligible

Subclass 189 Visa Requirements

For the points-tested stream, you will generally need to:

  • Be invited to apply through SkillSelect

  • Be under 45 when invited

  • Nominate an eligible skilled occupation

  • Obtain a suitable skills assessment

  • Demonstrate at least competent English

  • Score at least 65 points

  • Satisfy the health and character requirements

  • Lodge a valid visa application within 60 days after receiving an invitation

Meeting the minimum score of 65 points does not guarantee an invitation. Invitations depend on factors including your occupation, points score and the results of invitation rounds.

How O’Haire Legal Can Help

We can assist with:

  • Assessing your eligibility and points

  • Identifying the appropriate nominated occupation

  • Reviewing skills assessment requirements

  • Advising on English and partner points

  • Preparing and reviewing your Expression of Interest

  • Checking employment and qualification evidence

  • Preparing the visa application

  • Including eligible family members

  • Responding to requests for further information

  • Advising about health, character or prior visa issues