Australia Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)

The Australia Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) is a popular visa category for skilled workers who wish to migrate to Australia permanently. It is a points-based visa that does not require sponsorship from an employer, a state/territory, or a family member residing in Australia. This visa is designed to attract highly skilled individuals who can contribute to the Australian economy.

Requirements

To be eligible for the Subclass 189 visa, you must meet certain requirements outlined by the Australian Department of Home Affairs. Here are the key requirements:

Occupation Eligibility: You must have a nominated occupation that is listed on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL). This list includes occupations that are in high demand in the Australian labour market.

Skills Assessment: You must obtain a positive skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority for your nominated occupation. The assessing authority will determine if your skills and qualifications are suitable for the occupation you have chosen.

Age Requirement: You must be under the age of 45 at the time of invitation to apply for the visa.

English Language Proficiency: You must demonstrate competent English language skills. This can be done by providing evidence of achieving specified scores in an approved English language test such as IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE Academic.

Points Test: You must score a minimum of 65 points on the Points Test. Points are awarded based on factors such as age, English language proficiency, education qualifications, work experience, and other relevant criteria.

Expression of Interest (EOI): You must submit an Expression of Interest through the online SkillSelect system, indicating your interest in applying for the Subclass 189 visa. You will need to provide details about your skills, qualifications, work experience, and other relevant information.

Invitation to Apply: If you meet the eligibility requirements and score high enough on the Points Test, you may receive an invitation to apply for the Subclass 189 visa. Invitations are issued periodically based on the demand for specific occupations and the applicant's points score.

Health and Character Requirements: You must meet the health and character requirements set by the Australian government. This includes undergoing health examinations and obtaining police clearance certificates from all countries you have lived in for a certain period.

Visa Application: Once you receive an invitation, you can proceed to lodge a visa application within the given timeframe. You must provide all required documents and pay the applicable visa application fee.

Benefits

The Australia Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) offers several benefits to skilled workers who are granted permanent residency in Australia. Here are some key advantages of holding a Subclass 189 visa:

Permanent Residency: The Subclass 189 visa grants you permanent residency in Australia. This means you can live, work, and study in Australia indefinitely. You have the freedom to move anywhere within the country and enjoy the same rights and privileges as Australian citizens, except for voting rights.

Work Opportunities: As a Subclass 189 visa holder, you have the freedom to work for any employer in Australia, in any occupation of your choice (not restricted to your nominated occupation). You are not tied to a specific employer or job, allowing you to explore diverse career opportunities and progress in your chosen field.

Sponsorship and Family: With the Subclass 189 visa, you can sponsor eligible family members for permanent residency in Australia. This includes your spouse or de facto partner, dependent children, and other eligible dependent relatives. Your family members can also enjoy the benefits of living, working, and studying in Australia.

Access to Healthcare and Social Security: As a permanent resident, you are entitled to Australia's public healthcare system known as Medicare. This provides you with access to subsidized medical services and prescription medications. You are also eligible for social security benefits, if needed, such as unemployment benefits or parental leave payments.

Education and Study Options: Australia is known for its high-quality education system. As a Subclass 189 visa holder, you have access to a range of educational opportunities, including enrolling in government-funded schools, colleges, and universities at domestic student rates. You can also apply for the Australian government's Higher Education Loan Program (HELP) to assist with financing your studies.

Pathway to Citizenship: Permanent residents who have held the Subclass 189 visa for a specified period and meet the eligibility criteria can apply for Australian citizenship. Australian citizenship offers additional benefits, including the right to vote, an Australian passport, and full protection under Australian law.

Travel Flexibility: With the Subclass 189 visa, you can travel to and from Australia without any travel restrictions. The visa allows for multiple entries, enabling you to visit your home country or travel internationally for business or leisure purposes. However, it is important to ensure that you meet the visa's residency requirement to maintain your permanent residency status.