Looking to make Australia your permanent home and workplace? The Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189) is a highly sought-after points-based visa that can offer you a range of benefits, such as permanent residency, the ability to study and work in Australia, and the option to sponsor your family members. In this post, we'll give you a step-by-step guide to the application process.

Receive an Invitation to Apply

The first step in applying for the Subclass 189 Visa is to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect to receive an invitation. Your ranking will be compared to that of other applicants, and invitations are issued regularly based on the highest-ranking candidates.

Obtain a suitable skills assessment

To be eligible, you must have a suitable skills assessment at the time of invitation. This assessment should be obtained within the three years leading up to your invitation and should be aligned with your nominated occupation. If you obtained your skills assessment based on a qualification acquired in Australia while holding a student visa, it must be from a course registered on CRICOS.

Age requirement

You must be under 45 years of age at the time of the invitation, but if you turn 45 after receiving the invitation, you can still apply. Keep in mind that if you turn 45 before receiving the invitation, you will no longer be eligible.

Score at least 65 points

The Subclass 189 Visa is points-based, and you need to score at least 65 points to be invited to apply. Your points are calculated based on factors such as age, English language proficiency, work experience, and educational qualifications.

Meet English language proficiency

You must demonstrate competent English language proficiency, either by being a citizen of and holding a valid passport from the United Kingdom, Canada, the United States of America, New Zealand, or the Republic of Ireland, or by providing English language test results from recognised assessments such as IELTS and TOEFL.

Meet the skills and health requirement

Your nominated occupation must be on the relevant list of eligible skilled occupations for the Subclass 189 Visa's Point-Tested stream. All applicants and their family members included in the visa application must meet the health and character requirements set by the Australian government. This involves undergoing health examinations and obtaining police clearance certificates.

Resolve outstanding debts

If you or any family members owe debts to the Australian government, it is essential to repay or arrange a repayment plan before applying for the Subclass 189 Visa.

Sign the Australian values statement

Applicants who are 18 years of age or older must read or have the Life in Australia booklet explained to them. Additionally, they must sign or accept the Australian Values Statement, affirming their commitment to respect the Australian way of life and obey the country's laws.