Australia’s subclass is one of the most sought -demanding immigration routes for 189 efficient independent visa-qualified professionals who want to build below under a permanent future. Permanent visas-tested permanent visas do not require employer sponsorship or enrollment by a state or This is one of the most flexible and independent routes for Australian permanent residence.
In this blog, we will break down everything necessary to learn about 189 visas: for whom it is for, how they work, what the requirements are, and how much time it usually takes.
What is a subclass 189 visa?
Skilled independent visa (subclass 189) is a permanent residence visa for skilled workers, who have business on Australia’s moderate and long-term strategic skills list (MLTSSL). Unlike subclass 190 or 491, 189 visa australia is not required.
An Australian employer offered a job
State or territory nomination
Sponsorship by a relative
Instead, applicants are invited to apply on the basis of their skills, experience, education and English proficiency through competitive digit-based systems.
Who can apply for 189 visas?
To be eligible for the subclass 189 visa, you need:
Have an occupation on the MLTSSL
Less than 45 years of age during invitation
Evaluate positive skills from relevant authority
Score at least 65 points on points test
The least capable English is (IELTS 6.0 in each band or equivalent)
Present an expression of interest (EOI) through SkillSelect
Get an invitation to apply for visa
Meet health and character requirements
Benefits of the 189 Visa
Once given, 189 visa offers:
Permanent Residence – Live indefinitely in Australia
Full work and study rights anywhere in Australia
Access to Medicare, Australia’s public healthcare system
Ability to sponsor family members for visas
Pathway to Australian citizenship
Travel in and out of Australia for five years (renewable with RRV)
This visa gives you the freedom to live and work anywhere in Australia without beingtied to a job or field.
Understand the points test
To be eligible for 189 visas, you need a minimum of 65 points, but a more competitive score (85–90+) improves the possibility of receiving an invitation.
Here is how the marks are given:
Age: up to 30 digits (25-32 years = maximum score)
English proficiency: up to 20 digits
Skilled Employment: up to 20 points (Australian and Foreign Experience)
Eligibility: Up to 20 points (Degree, Diploma, Business Certificate)
Australian study: 5–10 points
Professional Year or Credentialed Community Language: Up to 5 points
Partner skills or being single: Up to 10 points
Use the Department of Home Affairs points calculator to estimate your score.
Application Process: Step by Step
Here’s what a typical Subclass 189 visa application journey looks like:
1. Check Your Occupation
Ensure your occupation is listed on the MLTSSL and check the skills assessment authority relevant to your job.
2. Get a skill evaluation
Apply for a skill evaluation with the designated authority (eg, ACS for IT, Australia for Engineering, Australia, Vetasese for many trades/businesses).
3. Take an english exam
Sit for an approved English testing such as IELTS, PTE academic, or toefl ibt. The result should be less than 3 years old.
4. Present an expression of your interest (EOI)
Giving details of your ability, experience and points, log in to skill your EOI and lodge your EOI.
5. Wait for an invitation to apply
If you receive official invitation from the department, you will only be able to apply for a visa. Invitations are released from time to time and are highly competitive.
6. Lodge your visa application
Once invited, you have 60 days to submit your entire visa application online, including supporting documents, health check -ups and police clearances.
7. Wait for visa decision
After submitting, the department of home affairs will assess your application. Processing time varies but usually occurs between 6 and 12 months.
Processing time for 189 visa (2025)
As of 2025, the estimated processing times are:
75% of applications processed within 7 months
90% of applications processed within 12 months
Factors that affect processing times include:
Quality and completeness of your application
Complexity of your background or documents
Delays in health or character checks
Immigration policy or invitation round change
Tips for a successful 189 visa application
Apply quickly: First you start, your chance to get an invitation will be as much better.
Maximize your points: Consider improving your English, gaining more work experience or completing a professional year program.
Keep the documents ready: Arrange the qualification, employment references and certified copies of the identification documents in advance.
Be honest in your EOI: False claims may refuse or ban.
Consult a registered migration agent: If you are uncertain, professional aid can save you time and stress.
Common Occupations in Demand for 189 Visa
Some of the most in-demand roles on the MLTSSL include:
Software Engineer
ICT Business Analyst
Civil Engineer
Registered Nurse (various specialisations)
Secondary School Teacher
Electrician
Chef
Accountant
Keep in mind that invitations are round competitors – popular businesses may require high points to receive invitations.
final thoughts
Subclass 189 Skilled Independent Visa is one of the most direct and powerful routes to Australian permanent residence. If you are a qualified professional with strong experience, good English, and a demand business, this visa gives you the freedom to live and work anywhere in Australia – without restriction or sponsorship.
