Subclass 189 – Skilled Independent Visa
Your Pathway to Permanent Residency in Australia Without Sponsorship
The Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) under Open Pathways is a permanent visa option designed for skilled professionals who are not sponsored by an employer, family member, or state/territory government. It operates on a points-based system and grants successful applicants permanent residency in Australia, with numerous long-term benefits for themselves and eligible family members.
What You Can Do with a Subclass 189 Visa (Skilled Independent)
The Subclass 189 Visa lets you live and work in Australia permanently. Enjoy full rights to study, access Medicare, travel freely, sponsor family, and apply for citizenship when eligible.
Live in Australia indefinitely as a permanent resident
The Subclass 189 Visa gives you the right to live in Australia permanently without restrictions. You can choose where to settle, buy property, and fully integrate into Australian life, all without needing sponsorship from an employer or state.
Work and study anywhere in the country
With this visa, you can work or study anywhere in Australia. You have the freedom to choose your career path, start a business, pursue further education, or switch jobs without needing to update visa conditions.
Access Medicare, Australia’s public healthcare system
As a permanent resident, you’re eligible for Medicare—Australia’s public healthcare system. This gives you access to medical services at low or no cost, including doctor visits, hospital care, and prescription medicines.
Travel in and out of Australia freely for up to five years from the visa grant date
The visa includes a five-year travel facility, allowing unlimited travel in and out of Australia during this time. After five years, you can renew the facility or apply for citizenship if eligible.
Sponsor eligible relatives for permanent residence
You can sponsor certain family members—such as a spouse, children, or dependent relatives—to join you in Australia and apply for permanent residence, helping you reunite and support your loved ones.
Apply for Australian citizenship, if you meet the eligibility criteria
After meeting residency requirements (typically four years, with at least one as a permanent resident), you can apply for citizenship. This gives you voting rights, an Australian passport, and full civic privileges.
Who Is Eligible for the Subclass 189 Visa?
To qualify for a Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189), applicants must meet the following criteria:
| Category | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Occupation | Your job must be on the current Skilled Occupation List, and you must pass a formal skills assessment for that occupation. |
| English Language | You must demonstrate competent English – for example, a minimum of IELTS 6 in each band or equivalent (such as PTE 50). |
| Age | You must be between 18 and 45 years of age at the time of invitation. If you turn 45 after submitting your EOI but before receiving an invitation, you will no longer be eligible. |
| Points Score | A minimum of 65 points under the General Skilled Migration points test is required. |
| Health | You must undergo a medical examination at an approved facility. |
| Character | You and any family members (even those not migrating) must provide police clearances. |
You must also receive an invitation to apply from the Department of Home Affairs and must not have a previously cancelled visa or refused application that bars you from applying.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for the 189 Visa
Follow these essential steps to begin your journey toward studying in Australia, from initial preparations to receiving an invitation to apply for your student visa:
Check Your Eligibility
Make sure your occupation is listed on Australia’s Skilled Occupation List and that you meet the minimum score of 65 points or more on the points test.
Submit Expression of Interest (EOI)
Our registered migration agents will prepare and submit your Expression of Interest (EOI) to the Department of Home Affairs through SkillSelect.
Await Invitation to Apply
We wait for the Department to issue an invitation to apply for the Subclass 189 Visa based on your EOI and points ranking.
Lodge Your Visa Application
Once invited, our team will handle your visa application and communicate with the Department on your behalf throughout the process.
Move to Australia
After your visa is granted, you and your family can relocate to Australia and begin your new life as permanent residents.
Need help with the process? Reach out to our Registered Migration Agents at info@openpathways.com or fill in the online enquiry form for a free eligibility check.
Visa Application Fees (Including GST)
| Applicant Type | Cost (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Main applicant | $4,640 |
| Additional applicant (aged 18 or over) | $2,320 |
| Additional applicant (under 18) | $1,160 |
Adding Family Members to Your Visa Application
You can include eligible family members in your initial visa application or add them after lodging, provided the visa is not yet granted. All included family members must hold valid passports.
Eligible Family Members:
Partner (spouse or de facto, same or opposite sex): Must be over 18, not living permanently apart, and show a genuine ongoing relationship.
Children: Can be biological, adopted, or stepchildren. Must either:
- Be under 18, or
- Be aged 18–23 and financially dependent, or
- Be over 23 with a recognized disability that prevents independence.
All family members must meet health requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the processing time for a Subclass 189 visa?
Processing times vary but are generally based on your application’s completeness, your occupation, and the demand for your skillset.
What are the 189 visa invitation rounds?
These are periodic selections conducted by the Department of Home Affairs to invite top-ranking EOIs based on points.
How is the 189 visa different from the 190 visa?
The 189 visa is independent and doesn’t require state/territory nomination, while the 190 visa is a state-sponsored permanent visa.
Can I include my family in the application?
Yes, you can include your partner and eligible children at the time of application or before the visa is granted.
Can I travel internationally with the 189 visa?
Yes, you can travel freely in and out of Australia for five years from the date the visa is granted.
Where should I apply from?
You can apply from inside or outside Australia, provided you meet the eligibility requirements and have received an invitation.
Ready to Start Your Journey?
If you’re a skilled professional ready to make Australia your permanent home, Open Pathways can help you through every step of the Subclass 189 visa process.
