Subclass 189Skilled Independent Visa

Australia's premier points-tested permanent visa for skilled workers. No employer or state sponsor required, migrate on your own merit.

Overview

This visa is for invited workers with skills that Australia needs, to live and work permanently anywhere in Australia.

For eligible New Zealand citizens who have shown commitment and contribution to Australia, and want to live and work in the country permanently.

For eligible Hong Kong or British National (Overseas) passport holders who have shown commitment to Australia and want to live and work in the country permanently.

What this visa offers

Live & work freely in Australia

You have the freedom to live and work anywhere in Australia without restrictions.

Indefinite residency

Your 5-year visa can be renewed an unlimited number of times.

Family support

Sponsorship is available for eligible family members.

Medicare benefits

Eligible for comprehensive health coverage through Medicare.

Homeownership assistance

Eligible for a $10,000 first home owners grant.

Higher education funding

Access financial aid through Higher Education Loans Program (HELP).

A clear path to citizenship

After 4 years of residency, you can become an Australian citizen.

Citizenship for children

Children of permanent residents are automatically citizens.

Ready to Start Your Skilled Independent Visa Application?

F4MG's migration legal practitioners guide you from assessment to grant.

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Frequently Asked Questions

You need a minimum of 65 points to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect. However, the actual score needed to receive an invitation is typically much higher, often 80–100+ points in competitive occupation categories. F4MG calculates your exact score and advises on strategies to increase it.

No. The 189 Skilled Independent Visa requires no employer sponsorship and no state or territory nomination. You are assessed entirely on your points score and occupation eligibility, making it the most independent pathway to Australian permanent residency.

Processing times vary but typically range from 6 to 18 months from invitation to grant, depending on the completeness of your application, the complexity of your case, and Department workloads. F4MG prepares a complete, thorough application to minimise delays.

Yes. Your spouse or de facto partner and dependent children can be included as secondary applicants. They will also need to meet health and character requirements. Secondary applicants generally receive the same work and study rights as the primary applicant.

SkillSelect is the Australian Government's online system for managing skilled migration applications. You submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect, which is then ranked by points score. The Department of Home Affairs invites the highest-scoring candidates in regular rounds. F4MG manages your SkillSelect profile and EOI submission on your behalf.

Overview

What this visa offers

Ready to Start Your Skilled Independent Visa Application?

Frequently Asked Questions

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