Skilled Independent Visa
(subclass 189)
The Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) offers a pathway to permanent residency in Australia for highly skilled workers who do not require employer, state, or family sponsorship. Here’s a comprehensive overview to guide you through the process:
Overview of the Subclass 189 Visa Australia
Streams
- Points-Tested Stream: For skilled workers who are assessed based on points.
- New Zealand Stream: Closed permanently to new applications as of 1 July 2023.
- Hong Kong Stream: For Hong Kong or British National (Overseas) passport holders who have lived and worked in Australia.
Key Requirements for Points-Tested Stream
1. Visa Type (for Applicants in Australia)
- Current Visa: You must hold one of the following:
- Substantive visa
- Bridging Visa A (BVA) – Subclass 010
- Bridging Visa B (BVB) – Subclass 020
- Bridging Visa C (BVC) – Subclass 030
- Previous Visa: If your last substantive visa was either Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) (Subclass 491) or Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) (Subclass 494), you must have held it for at least 3 years at the time of applying.
2. Invitation to Apply
- Expression of Interest (EOI): You must submit an EOI through SkillSelect.
- Invitation: You can only apply for the visa if invited. Invitations are issued based on your EOI ranking and the points you score.
3. Skills Assessment
- Validity: You must have a positive skills assessment for your nominated occupation, obtained within 3 years before the invitation date. For medical and legal practitioners, certain registrations can also serve as proof of skills assessment.
4. Age
- Age Limit: You must be under 45 when invited. If you turn 45 after the invitation, you will not be eligible.
5. Points Score
- Minimum Points: You need to score at least 65 points. Your points are calculated based on various factors, including age, experience, and qualifications.
6. English Language Proficiency
- Requirement: At the time of invitation, you must have at least competent English.
7. Occupation List
- Eligible Occupations: Your occupation must be on the relevant list of eligible skilled occupations for the Subclass 189 visa (Points-Tested stream).
Points-Tested Application Process
Expression of Interest (EOI)
- Crafting: Submit a detailed EOI through SkillSelect, including your skills and qualifications.
- Ranking: Your EOI will be ranked based on the points you score.
Invitation to Apply
- Receiving: If selected, you’ll receive an invitation to apply for the visa.
- Timeframe: You have 60 days to lodge your visa application after receiving the invitation.
Visa Application
- Lodgement: Apply for the visa through the ImmiAccount system.
- Documents: Provide evidence supporting your claims, including skills assessment and English proficiency.
Crafting a Compelling Expression of Interest (EOI)
To begin your journey towards securing the Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189), you’ll need to submit a well-crafted Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect. Here’s how to create a compelling EOI:
Provide Detailed Information: Share comprehensive details about your nominated occupation, including your skills, qualifications, and work experience. Make sure to present your credentials clearly and accurately.
Highlight Key Achievements: Emphasize any notable achievements or experiences that can boost your points score and enhance your attractiveness to potential employers or sponsors.
Ensure Accuracy: Double-check all the information provided in your EOI for accuracy. Errors or omissions can affect your points score and your ranking in the SkillSelect pool.
Update Regularly: Keep your EOI up to date, especially if you gain additional qualifications or work experience that could increase your points score.
Precision in Occupational Alignment
Check the Eligible Occupations List: Your occupation must be on the list of eligible skilled occupations for the Subclass 189 visa. Ensure that your occupation aligns precisely with the list to avoid any issues with your application.
Secure a Skills Assessment: Obtain a positive skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority. This assessment must confirm that your skills and qualifications meet the standards required for your nominated occupation.
Match Your Skills: Ensure that your skills assessment and your EOI align perfectly with your nominated occupation to demonstrate your suitability for the visa.
Points Score Excellence
Achieve the Threshold: Aim for a points score of 65 or more, as this is the minimum required to be eligible for an invitation to apply for the visa.
Calculate Your Points: Use the points table to determine how many points you can claim based on your age, English proficiency, work experience, and qualifications.
Optimize Your Score: Look for ways to enhance your points score, such as improving your English language skills or gaining additional work experience.
The Invitation Quest
Monitor SkillSelect: Keep an eye on SkillSelect for updates on invitations and ensure your EOI is competitive.
Prepare Your Application: Once invited, you will have 60 calendar days to submit a formal visa application. Use this time to gather and organize all necessary documents and evidence.
Respond Promptly: Ensure timely and accurate submission of your visa application to avoid missing the opportunity.
Navigating the Points Table
Understand the Points System: Familiarize yourself with how points are allocated in the points table. This will help you understand how your EOI ranking is determined.
Review Your Score: Validate your points score based on the information provided in your EOI and compare it with the points requirements stated in your invitation.
Adjust If Needed: If necessary, adjust your EOI or take additional steps to increase your points score to remain competitive.
EOI Ranking Strategy
Stay in the Pool: Your EOI will remain in the SkillSelect pool for up to two years. Ensure it remains accurate and competitive throughout this period.
Monitor Your Ranking: Regularly review your ranking and consider updating your EOI if your circumstances change or if you gain additional qualifications or experience.
No Cost to Submit: Remember, submitting an EOI is free, so make sure to submit even if you’re not immediately ready to apply for the visa.
Strategic Decision-Making for Location
Apply from Anywhere: You can submit your EOI and apply for the visa whether you are in Australia or overseas.
For Applicants in Australia: If you are in Australia, you must hold a substantive visa or a Bridging A, B, or C visa. Ensure you maintain a valid visa status to avoid complications.
Plan Ahead: If you are overseas, plan your move to Australia accordingly, and consider the logistics of transitioning from your current location.
Cautionary Considerations and Wise Navigation
Be Aware of Visa Status: If your current visa is refused or canceled while you are in Australia, it could impact your eligibility for the Subclass 189 visa.
Seek Professional Advice: Consider consulting with a migration agent to navigate complex situations and ensure you meet all visa requirements.
Stay Informed: Regularly check updates on visa regulations and requirements to stay informed and make any necessary adjustments to your application.
By following these guidelines and carefully navigating each step, you can enhance your chances of successfully obtaining the Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) and achieving your goals in Australia.
Hong Kong Stream Specific Requirements
- Eligible Visa: You must have held an eligible visa (Subclass 457, 482, or 485) for at least 4 years before applying.
- Passport: You must hold a Hong Kong or British National (Overseas) passport.
- Residency: You must have lived in Australia for a continuous period of at least 4 years.
- English Proficiency: At the time of decision, you must have functional English or pay the second instalment of the visa application charge.
189 Visa Benefits
- Permanent Residency: Indefinite stay in Australia.
- Work and Study: Freedom to work and study.
- Medicare: Access to Australia’s public healthcare system.
- Sponsorship: Ability to sponsor relatives.
- Travel: Travel to and from Australia for 5 years.
- Citizenship: Potential pathway to Australian citizenship.
Cost of Skilled Independent Visa
- Visa Fee: AUD 4,765 for the main applicant.
- Additional Charges: May include a second instalment charge of AUD 4,885 for applicants 18 years or older with less than functional English, plus costs for health checks, police certificates, and biometrics.
Application Locations
In or Outside Australia: You have the flexibility to apply for the Subclass 189 visa whether you are currently in Australia or outside the country. If in Australia: Hold a substantive or Bridging visa (BVA, BVB, or BVC).
Visa Status at Application: At the time of your application, you can be in or outside of Australia, but must not be in immigration clearance. Immigration clearance refers to situations where you are undergoing processing at the border or holding a Bridging visa while your immigration status is under review.
Additional Considerations
- Application Advice: Seek guidance from migration professionals to navigate the process effectively.
- VEVO: Use Visa Entitlement Verification Online (VEVO) to check your visa conditions.
For personalized assistance, including skills assessment and visa application management, VisaHome’s migration team can provide expert guidance. Schedule a consultation to tailor your application and ensure a smooth process toward obtaining your Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189).