Migration Overseas
Since 1998
The most independent pathway to Australian PR. No employer sponsorship. No state nomination. Live and work anywhere in Australia with your family.
Unmatched freedom and flexibility for skilled migrants.
Live in Australia permanently from day one.
No location restrictions across Australia.
Bring spouse, children, and dependents.
Become citizen after 4 years.
Work for anyone or start business.
Subsidized education for family.
Access public healthcare system.
Travel freely for 5 years.
Meet these requirements to qualify for Subclass 189.
Minimum 65 points required. Higher points improve chances.
| Factor | Criteria | Pts |
|---|---|---|
| Age | 18-24 years | 25 |
| 25-32 years | 30 | |
| 33-39 years | 25 | |
| 40-44 years | 15 | |
| English | Competent (IELTS 6) | 0 |
| Proficient (IELTS 7) | 10 | |
| Superior (IELTS 8) | 20 | |
| Overseas Exp | 3-4 years | 5 |
| 5-7 years | 10 | |
| 8+ years | 15 | |
| AU Exp | 1-2 years | 5 |
| 3-4 years | 10 | |
| 5+ years | 15-20 | |
| Education | Diploma/Trade | 10 |
| Bachelor's | 15 | |
| Master's/PhD | 20 | |
| AU Study | 2+ years in Australia | 5 |
| Partner | Skilled spouse | 5-10 |
| Single | No spouse/partner | 10 |
Current Trends: Most occupations require 80-90+ points due to competition. Focus on English and experience to boost points. Use our Points Calculator to check your score.
Step-by-step guide to your Subclass 189 visa.
Get qualifications and experience assessed by relevant authority. Takes 4-12 weeks.
Take IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL. Aim for IELTS 7+ to maximize points.
Create SkillSelect account and submit Expression of Interest. EOI is free.
Highest points invited first. 60 days to apply after invitation.
Submit online with documents. Pay fees, do medical & police checks.
Processing 6-12 months. Once granted, you're a permanent resident!
Financial investment for your 189 visa.
Government visa application charge
For each adult secondary applicant
For each dependent child
Additional costs: Skills assessment (Rs 25K-80K), English test (Rs 15K-20K), medical (Rs 8K-15K), police clearances (Rs 2K-5K).
Find answers to your questions about this visa.
Subclass 189 is Australia's Skilled Independent visa, a points-tested permanent residence visa that doesn't require employer, state, or family sponsorship. It allows you to live and work anywhere in Australia permanently.
The minimum is 65 points, but competitive invitations typically require 80-95+ points depending on the occupation. Points are awarded for age, English, qualifications, work experience, and other factors.
Your occupation must be on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL). Common occupations include software engineers, accountants, nurses, engineers, and various trade occupations.
Processing times vary but typically range from 6-18 months after invitation. Priority processing may apply to certain occupations or applicants with specific circumstances.
Yes, you must obtain a positive skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority for your occupation before being eligible to submit an EOI and receive an invitation.
You submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) in SkillSelect stating your points and occupation. When your score is competitive, you receive an invitation to apply for the visa.
Subclass 189 grants permanent residence immediately upon approval. There's no expiry - you can live in Australia indefinitely and travel freely for 5 years on the visa label.
Yes, you can include your spouse/de facto partner and dependent children in your application. They receive the same permanent residence status as you.
Minimum is Competent English (IELTS 6.0 each band). However, to be competitive, Superior English (IELTS 8.0+ each band) gives 20 points, significantly improving your chances.
You must be under 45 years old at the time of invitation. Applicants aged 25-32 receive maximum age points (30 points), with points decreasing for older applicants.
Get expert guidance on your Subclass 189 visa. Free eligibility assessment for skilled professionals.
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