The skilled visa Perth can be your dream ticket for a future in Australia without having to be sponsored by employers or nominated by the state. This visa is for skilled workers who have the right qualifications, experience, and points to work in Australia independently.
One of the most popular permanent residency options is the 189 visa, as it offers flexibility, freedom and long-term stability. The skilled independent visa 189 opens doors to countless opportunities across Australia.
What The 189 Visa Australia Lets You Do
The 189 visa Australia is a permanent visa, which implies that you can settle in Australia and enjoy all the rights like citizens, except for voting in federal elections. With this visa:
- You can stay and work anywhere in Australia for as long as you want.
- The applicants can sponsor family members who qualify to get permanent residency.
- You can also apply for citizenship if eligible.
You do not have to work for a specific company or live in a specific place with the skilled independent visa. This independence is what makes the visa 189 highly attractive for skilled migrants.
Understanding The Available Streams
The visa subclass 189 has various streams based on your eligibility and background. Each stream caters to a specific group of applicants.
This is the most popular route under the skilled independent subclass 189. It is based on a points system that analyses your profile.
To qualify, you must:
- Have an occupation listed on the relevant skilled occupation list.
- Undergo a suitable skills assessment for the occupation.
- Score at least 65 points.
- Receive an invitation to apply.
The points are given on the basis of age, education, work experience and proficiency in English. The higher your score, the more likely you will be invited for the AU 189 visa.
The New Zealand stream under the visa subclass 189 has been permanently closed to new applications since 1 July 2023.
Previously, this stream allowed eligible New Zealand citizens who lived in Australia to apply for permanent residency. This path is no longer open, but applicants can look into other visa options.
The stream is targeted at the Hong Kong passport holders who have met the residency and employment requirements in Australia.
The applicant must:
- Have a Hong Kong passport or a British National (Overseas) passport.
- Meet certain visa and residence requirements.
The AU visa 189 under this stream provides an easier route to permanent residency for people who have already settled in Australia on a temporary basis.
Eligibility Requirements For Skilled Independent Subclass 189 Visa
In order to apply for a skilled independent visa 189, there is a list of requirements that will evaluate how much you can contribute to the Australian economy.
Here are the key eligibility factors:
- Age Requirement: You need to be below 45 years when you get your invitation to apply for the visa.
- Occupation: Your job role must be included in the skilled occupation list by the Australian government.
- Skills Assessment: You need to obtain a positive skills assessment from the designated assessing authority for your occupation.
- English Proficiency: You need to show that you can speak English well by passing a language test like IELTS or equivalent.
- Points Test: You should obtain at least 65 points depending on the age, education, work experience and language proficiency.
- Health and Character: You must fulfil specific health requirements through medical tests and provide police clearance certificates.
Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee an invitation. A stronger profile improves your chances of receiving an invitation for the visa 189.
Subclass 189 Visa Application Checklist
Preparing your documents carefully is crucial when applying for the visa subclass 189.Your application could be delayed if you do not include all the right information.
Here is a practical checklist:
- Valid passport
- Employment reference letters
- Educational certificates
- Expression of Interest confirmation
- Proof of relationship (if including family members)
Having all documents ready before submission ensures a smoother process for your AU 189 visa application.
Processing Time For Skilled Independent Visa Subclass 189
The skilled independent visa processing time depends on a number of factors that include the volume of applications and the completion of documents.
| Visa |
50% Application |
90% Application |
| Points Tested Stream |
6 Months |
6 Months |
| New Zealand Stream |
51 Months |
60 Months |
The delay may occur if some extra information is demanded. The correct documentation can greatly decrease waiting time for the visa subclass 189.
Note: The New Zealand stream has been permanently closed since 1st July 2023.
You should also know the 189 visa fee involved when making your migration plans.
| Visa |
Costs |
| Points Tested Stream |
From AUD4,910.00 |
| Hong Kong Stream |
From AUD4,910.00 |
Planning your finances in advance helps you manage the total cost of the AU visa 189 more effectively.
The 189 visa condition is quite flexible as opposed to the other visa requirements.
Key conditions include:
- You are obliged to abide by the laws of Australia.
- You can work and study without restrictions.
- You must maintain valid travel rights for re-entry.
- You are encouraged to stay updated with residency requirements.
The independent skilled visa 189 is not tied down by any particular employer or region. This allows you to explore other cities.
How To Apply For A Skilled Independent Subclass 189 Visa
Applying for the subclass 189 involves several steps, and each step must be handled carefully.
Here is a simplified process:
- Check Eligibility: The first step to take is to make sure your occupation is on the corresponding list, and you qualify for the visa 189.
- Skills Assessment: You need to give the skills assessment test taken by the relevant authority in respect of your occupation.
- English Test: Next, you have to undergo an approved English language test and achieve the required score.
- Submit Expression of Interest (EOI): Lodge your EOI through SkillSelect. This is where you present your profile for selection.
- Receive Invitation: You will receive an invitation to apply for the 189 visa if your profile qualifies.
- Lodge Visa Application: Apply through the online portal with all the required documents.
- Health and Character Checks: Complete medical tests and provide police clearance certificates.
- Await Decision: It is important for you to wait until a final decision has been made on your visa subclass 189.
Most applicants usually hire an experienced immigration agent Perth to avoid mistakes and increase their chances of success.
Get Expert Guidance For 189 Visa Australia At Migration Agents Perth
Applying for a permanent visa can feel overwhelming, especially when every detail matters. Our experienced migration agents Perth can help ensure that your visa application is properly prepared and complies with the latest immigration regulations.
Ready to secure your 189 visa for Australia? Speak with our expert immigration agent in Perth and start your pathway to permanent residency today!