Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)

Are you a skilled international worker with expertise in areas highly sought after in the Australian economy?

Looking to achieve permanent residency in Australia?

Consider applying for the Skilled Independent Visa Australia. This is your chance to not only work but also become a permanent resident in the stunning landscape of Australia!

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Why Skilled Independent Visa?

The Subclass 189 Visa Australia is a points-based immigration option for selecting skilled individuals needed in various Australian states.

It offers skilled workers the opportunity to relocate and live in Australia without requiring family sponsorship or state/territory government nomination.

 

Skilled Independent 189 Visa Advantages

  • Stay, study, or work in Australia indefinitely
  • Join Medicare
  • Become eligible for Australian citizenship
  • Help eligible family members get permanent residency
  • Travel to and from Australia for five years after getting the visa

 

Preparing for Your Visa Application: The Importance of EOI Scoring

Prior to applying for a visa, it’s essential to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) and achieve a score of at least 65 points. The scoring in the EOI is crucial and depends on several criteria:

  • Age
  • Educational qualifications (whether it’s a Diploma, Degree, or PhD)
  • English language proficiency
  • Work experience
  • Marital status and partner’s skills
  • NAATI Accreditation
  • Completion of a Professional Year program

These elements are key in determining your eligibility and increasing your likelihood of receiving an invitation from the immigration department for a visa application.

**Note: Gaining an Australian degree, diploma, or trade qualification can add an extra five points to your EOI score. But, it’s important to meet specific requirements to be eligible for these additional points.

 

Visa Eligibility Essentials

For eligibility for this visa, the following criteria must be met:

  • Be no older than 45 years of age, as this is the maximum age limit for the visa.
  • Select an occupation from the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL).
  • Prove proficiency in English at a competent level.
  • Have your skills officially assessed by the designated assessing authority.
  • Achieve the score required as per your specific visa application.
  • Satisfy both health and character requirements.

 

Health and Character Requirements for Visa

All applicants and their family members must:

  • Complete medical examinations within 12 months before applying for the visa.
  • Provide police certificates from every country where they’ve lived for 12 months or more during the past ten years, starting from when they turned 16.

 

Proof of English Proficiency

Applicants must demonstrate competent English by achieving minimum scores in one of these tests:

  • Pearson Test of English (PTE) with a minimum of 50 in each of the four components.
  • International English Language Testing System (IELTS) with at least 6 in each of the four test components.
  • An equivalent score in TOEFL iBT, OET, or CAE.

 

Clearance of Debts to the Australian Government

Before the visa is granted, applicants must not have any outstanding debts to the Australian Government.

Inclusion of Family Members in Visa Application

When applying for a visa, the following family members can be included:

  • Spouse or partner.
  • Your or your partner’s child or stepchild.

Need Help with Visa Requirements and EOI?

Feeling overwhelmed by the visa requirements or have questions about the Expression of Interest? Our team of MARA professionals is here to help ensure everything is in order for your application.

DISCLAIMER: This information is provided for general understanding and does not constitute legal advice. We advise checking for the latest information with the Department of Home Affairs at Department of Home Affairs.

Key Questions Answered: Australia's Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)

Subclass 189, or the Skilled Independent Visa, is designed for skilled professionals seeking permanent residency in Australia. It’s available to those who aren’t sponsored by employers, states, or family members and is based on a points system, targeting those with in-demand skills.

Eligibility for Australia’s Subclass 189 visa requires: a listed occupation on the skilled occupation list, achieving the point score needed in the points test, an invitation from the Australian government, meeting the age criteria, possessing competent English language abilities, and fulfilling health and character checks.

For the Subclass 189 visa, points are allocated based on age, English proficiency, professional experience, educational qualifications, and other factors. This point system is used to evaluate if you are eligible for the visa. To estimate your total points, you can use the Points Calculator on the Australian government’s website.

Applying for the Subclass 189 visa does not necessitate having a job offer. It targets skilled individuals who possess the necessary qualifications and experience for a role on the skilled occupation list and meet the point score threshold.

To qualify for the Subclass 189 visa, you should be under 45 years of age. The points awarded in the application process are higher for younger applicants.

The Subclass 189 visa in Australia accepts IELTS, OET, TOEFL iBT, and PTE Academic as valid English language proficiency tests.

Yes, the Subclass 189 visa is open to occupations listed on Australia’s skilled occupation list, encompassing a variety of professions updated regularly by the government.

In your Subclass 189 visa application, you’re allowed to include eligible family members such as your spouse or partner and dependent children or relatives.

Yes, Subclass 189 grants permanent residency, allowing you and eligible family members indefinite living, working, and studying rights in Australia.

All applicants and their families must satisfy health and character criteria, which may include medical tests and obtaining police certificates.

Yes, you can transition to a Subclass 189 visa from another visa type in Australia, subject to meeting eligibility and receiving an invitation.

Processing times for Subclass 189 visas depend on various factors, with current times available on the government’s official website.

There isn’t a specific quota for Subclass 189 visas, but the number issued is influenced by the government’s yearly migration levels.

Changing your nominated occupation post-invitation is not possible, so it’s important to ensure accuracy in your initial application.

Yes, applicants for the Subclass 189 visa must complete a skills assessment. This process is crucial to validate that your qualifications and work history are suitable for your chosen occupation.

Those holding a Subclass 189 visa are required to follow all Australian legal guidelines, maintain valid health insurance, and meet certain residency conditions to keep their permanent resident status.

In case of a rejection of your Subclass 189 visa application, you have the option to appeal. This involves seeking a review from the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT).

State or territory sponsorship isn’t available for the Subclass 189 visa. However, other skilled migration visas, such as the Subclass 190 visa, might offer such sponsorship options through various states and territories.

The procedures and policies for the Subclass 189 visa can change. For the most current information, visit the Australian government’s official website or consult a registered migration agent.

Distinctly, the Subclass 189 visa caters to skilled professionals who do not require sponsorship from an employer or state/territory, enabling them to migrate to Australia on their own, unlike other skilled migration visas.

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