Points 01
Minimum 65 points
You must score at least 65 on the points test. Recent invitation rounds have generally required a higher score to be selected.
Details
Visa Skilled Independent Visa
Skilled Independent Visa
Subclass 189.
A points-based permanent residence visa for skilled workers not sponsored by a state, territory or employer.
- Registered migration agents
- 150+ CRICOS partner institutions
- Offices in Adelaide & Perth
Permanent Residence, on Your Own Merit.
The Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) is a permanent residence visa awarded through SkillSelect. It does not require nomination by an employer, state or territory, so successful applicants can live and work anywhere in Australia.
Applicants submit an Expression of Interest, receive an invitation based on points and then lodge a visa application. The process rewards younger applicants with strong English, work experience and Australian qualifications.
Core Requirements at a Glance.
Meet these baseline conditions before submitting an Expression of Interest in SkillSelect.
Occupation 02
Occupation on MLTSSL
Your nominated occupation must appear on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List at the time of invitation.
Details
Assessment 03
Positive skills assessment
You need a suitable assessment from the relevant assessing authority for your nominated occupation.
Details
English 04
Competent English
Meet the competent English benchmark, with higher scores available to gain additional points on the test.
Details
Points-Tested Strategy, Not Guesswork.
We audit your claimed points before you lodge, cross-check qualifications against the current MLTSSL and build the evidence file that supports each claim.
Where the score is borderline, we outline options to lift it through study, English testing or partner points, and re-model realistic invitation timelines.
By the Numbers.
- Age limit
- Under 45
- Minimum points
- 65
- Visa type
- Permanent
- Occupation list
- MLTSSL
A Skills Assessment Must Come First.
Never submit an Expression of Interest before your skills assessment is issued. Points claimed without supporting evidence at invitation date can lead to refusal.
Sky Consultants, MARA-registered team
Frequently Asked Questions.
Who is eligible for the subclass 189 visa?
Skilled workers under 45 with an occupation on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List, a positive skills assessment, competent English and at least 65 points on the SkillSelect points test. Recent invitation rounds have generally required scores above the minimum.
How long does the 189 take to process?
From invitation, median processing is currently around six to twelve months, subject to caseload and evidence completeness. Total time is longer once you add SkillSelect wait time between EOI submission and invitation.
How much does the 189 cost?
The base visa charge is AUD 4,765 for the primary applicant. Secondary applicant fees apply for a spouse and each dependent child. Skills assessment, English test, health and translation costs are separate.
Can my family come with me on a 189?
Yes. A spouse and dependent children can be included at lodgement or later as subsequent entrants. All included applicants receive permanent residence with the same rights on grant.
How do I maximise my points score?
Points can be lifted through higher English scores, additional qualifying work experience, a Professional Year, a NAATI CCL credential, a partner skills claim or Australian study in a regional area. We audit your current claim and model realistic uplift options.
Do you provide MARA-registered assistance for the whole process?
Yes. Our MARA-registered team runs the skills assessment, EOI, invitation response and 189 lodgement together so evidence is consistent from ANZSCO through to Home Affairs decision.
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Chapter With Confidence.
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