Why Subclass 189 Visa?
- Stay in Australia permanently
- Work in Australia with PR status
- Travel to and from Australia unlimited times
- Earn in AUD, significantly higher than your current salary
- Settle in Australia along with your family
Subclass 189 Visa – Skilled Independent Visa
The Subclass 189 Skilled Independent Visa is a points-tested permanent visa for skilled workers who are not sponsored by an Australian employer, family member, or state/territory. To qualify, applicants must score at least 65 points on the points test, submit an Expression of Interest (EOI), and receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) via SkillSelect. Once invited, applicants must submit their visa application within 60 days.
Upon visa approval, holders and accompanying family members can live, work, and study as permanent residents in Australia.
Benefits of a Subclass 189 Visa
A Subclass 189 Visa offers numerous advantages, including:
- Permanent residency in Australia
- Work and study privileges
- Access to Medicare (Australia’s healthcare system)
- Ability to sponsor family members for PR
- Travel to and from Australia for five years
- Eligibility for Australian citizenship (if criteria met)
Subclass 189 Visa Requirements
To be eligible for a 189 Skilled Independent Visa, applicants must:
- Have an occupation listed on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL)
- Obtain a positive skills assessment for the nominated occupation
- Meet the minimum English proficiency requirements
- Score at least 65 points on the points test
- Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) from SkillSelect
Required Documents
- Completed application form
- Valid passport & recent photographs
- Skills assessment report
- English language test results (IELTS/PTE)
- Evidence of employment in a skilled occupation
- Educational qualification documents
- Australian study requirement (if applicable)
- Proof of spouse/partner skills (if applicable)
- Relationship documents
- Health and character documents
- Reference letters from employers
- Additional documents (if requested)
Application Process for a 189 Visa
- Confirm eligibility – Ensure your occupation is on the Skilled Occupation List and you meet the 65-point threshold.
- Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect.
- Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) from the Australian immigration department.
- Submit visa application along with required documents.
- Receive visa approval and relocate to Australia with your family.
Eligibility Criteria for a Subclass 189 Visa
Occupation & Skills
- Your occupation must be listed on Australia’s Skilled Occupation List.
- A skills assessment from a recognized authority is required to confirm your qualifications.
Invitation & Points Test
- Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) and receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA).
- Score at least 65 points on the points test (some occupations require higher scores).
English Language Proficiency
- Applicants must provide evidence of English proficiency.
- Higher scores in IELTS or PTE can lead to additional points.
Age Requirement
- Applicants must be under 45 years of age at the time of receiving the ITA.
Health & Character Requirements
- Fulfill mandatory health and character requirements.
Application Fees for Subclass 189 Visa
Category | Fee (Effective from 1st July 2024) |
Main Applicant | AUD 4,765 |
Applicant above 18 years | AUD 2,385 |
Applicant below 18 years | AUD 1,195 |
Processing Times for Subclass 189 & Subclass 491 Visas
Processing times vary based on skills assessment authorities, invitation rounds, and application complexity. Below is a general timeline for Subclass 189 visa processing:
Process | Estimated Timeframe |
Confirm occupation on SOL | 7 – 12 working days |
Meet eligibility requirements | 0 – 15 days |
Complete Skills Assessment | 2 – 3 months |
Submit EOI through SkillSelect | 15 working days |
Lodge Visa Application | 2 months |
Await Visa Decision | 3 – 6 months |
Total processing time for Subclass 189 Visa can take 8 – 9 months after submitting the Skilled Independent Visa application.
Why Choose EKASO – TAKA IMMIGRATION LAW CONSULTANTS PVT LTD?
- Free eligibility check through Australia’s Immigration Points Calculator
- Expert guidance on Australian immigration pathways
- Comprehensive coaching for PTE & IELTS exams
- Professional documentation assistance
- Job search services for career opportunities in Australia
Let EKASO – TAKA IMMIGRATION LAW CONSULTANTS PVT LTD guide you through every step of your Subclass 189 visa application. Contact us today to start your journey towards a new life in Australia!
