Skilled Independent Subclass 189

Overview

The 189 visa gives permanent residence to invited skilled workers without needing a state, territory or employer to sponsor them.

Key points

Who can apply

• Applicants with an occupation on the skilled list
• Applicants who meet the points test
• Applicants with a positive skills assessment

Eligibility details

• Score at least 65 points on the points test
• Be under 45 when you receive an invitation
• Have at least competent English
• Hold a suitable skills assessment for an occupation on the relevant skilled occupation list
• Submit an Expression of Interest and be invited to apply

How the process works

1. Skills assessmentGet your occupation assessed
2. English testReach the level you need
3. Submit your EOIClaim your points in SkillSelect
4. InvitationHome Affairs invites the highest-ranked applicants in rounds
5. Lodge and complete checksHealth, character and identity checks

How OvalArc helps

1. Free assessmentWe review your age, education, work history and language score.
2. Route planYou receive options with costs and timelines in writing.
3. DocumentsWe prepare and check every document before filing.
4. Filing and follow-upWe submit, track and respond to the authority.

Costs and timelines

• Skills assessment and English test fees
• Visa application charge
• Health examinations and police certificates

Government fees and processing times change. Your adviser gives the current figures from the official source.

Documents we usually need

• Valid passport
• Education certificates and mark sheets
• Work experience and reference letters
• Language test result (IELTS, CELPIP, TEF or other)
• Police clearance and medical when required
• Proof of funds and civil documents

The exact list depends on your case.

Mistakes to avoid

• Submitting documents that do not match each other
• Missing deadlines in an invitation or request letter
• Hiding past refusals or travel history
• Relying on outdated rules from old web pages

Common questions