189 Visa

The 189 Visa, also known as the Skilled Independent Visa, is for skilled workers who want to live and work in Australia permanently.

This visa is points-based. You earn points for things like your age, English level, work experience, and qualifications. The higher your score, the better your chances of being invited to apply.

The 189 Visa is competitive because you’ll be ranked against other people in your job category. But don’t worry, we’ll help you understand your points, what you can claim, and give you the best chance of getting an invitation.

Obligation-free, limited sessions each week

What is the 189 Visa application process?

We check if you qualify

We’ll review your details and help you understand your chances of success.

Apply for your skills assessment

We guide you through getting your skills assessed so you can meet visa requirements.

Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)

We’ll help you prepare and submit your EOI to show you’re ready to apply.

Wait for your invitation

We monitor your EOI and guide you while you wait for your official invitation to apply.

Apply for your visa

Once invited, we’ll prepare and submit your 189 Visa application for you.

Why choose the 189 Skilled Visa?

The 189 Visa is one of the most popular visas for skilled workers who want to move to Australia permanently. Here’s why it’s such a great choice:

No state or employer sponsorship needed

• You don’t need to live in a regional area
• No separate state application or waiting for an invitation
• No extra state requirements to meet
• You can move freely anywhere in Australia

Direct pathway to permanent residency

Once granted, you become a permanent resident straight away.

Access to Medicare

You can use Australia’s public healthcare system as soon as you apply.

Freedom to travel

You can travel in and out of Australia for 5 years without any restrictions.

Priority processing

This visa is often given high priority for approvals.

While it’s very competitive (with a shorter job list and high points competition), now is one of the best times to apply. With skills in demand and points cut-offs at their lowest in years, the 189 Visa is a top choice for skilled workers looking to settle in Australia.

What is the processing time for a 189 Visa?

Here’s how long it’s currently taking for the Department of Home Affairs to process 189 Skilled Visa applications (as of Jan 2023):

25% of applications:

around 82 days

50% of applications:

around 83 days

75% of applications:

about 3 months

90% of applications:

about 3 months

These are average times and can be longer if your application is incomplete or if extra checks are needed.

What are the 189 Skilled Visa requirements?

To apply for a 189 Visa, you’ll need to meet these key requirements:

Job on the Skilled List

Your job must be on the Skilled Occupation List. This list shows which jobs are currently needed in Australia.

Skills Assessment

You’ll need to get your skills checked by the official authority for your job to make sure your qualifications meet Australian standards.

Points Test

You must score at least 65 points. Points are based on things like your age, English level, work experience, and education. The more points you have, the better your chances.

Age Limit

You must be under 45 years old when you’re invited to apply.

English Requirement

You need to show at least Competent English. For example:

  • IELTS: 6 in each band
  • PTE: 50 in each section
  • TOEFL: Required scores for listening, reading, writing, and speaking

Health and Character Checks

You’ll need a medical exam and police checks from any country you’ve lived in for 12 months or more in the past 10 years.

Expression of Interest (EOI)

Before you can apply, you must submit an EOI through SkillSelect. This tells the Australian Government you’d like to be considered for the visa.

Our 189 Visas application process

Chat with a visa expert

We’ll talk one-on-one to understand your situation, answer your questions, and explain what you need to know.

Check your eligibility

Pay a small deposit, and we’ll do a full eligibility check before you commit to anything.

Get started

Once you sign the agreement and make your payment, we’re ready to begin your application.

Receive your document checklist

We’ll give you a clear, comprehensive 189 Visa step-by-step list of exactly what you need, so nothing is missed.

Collect your documents with our help

As you gather your documents, we’ll be here to guide you and give advice whenever you need it.

We complete your application

No complicated forms for you to worry about, we’ll prepare everything for you.

We’ll submit your application

We’ll carefully check your application to make sure it’s as strong as possible before sending it to Immigration.

Stay updated until you get your visa

We’ll keep you in the loop and follow up with Immigration for you, so you’re never left wondering what’s happening.

Not sure where to start?

Book a free consultation with our migration experts, and we’ll help you understand your options and next steps.

Frequently asked questions

How does the points test work for a 189 visa?

The points test looks at things like your age, English level, work experience, and education. The minimum score is 65, but higher scores give you a better chance of being invited.

An EOI is an online form where you share your skills and experience. You must submit an EOI and be invited before you can apply for the visa.

Processing times vary, but currently 75% of applications are done in around 8 months, and 90% within 13 months.

How would you like to have your consultation?

Getting Australian PR can be tricky, but don’t worry, our experienced PR experts are here to help!
We have two options:
Option 1:

Book 1:1 Strategy Session

Are you a student, graduate or skilled professional? Don't have enough points, or not sure what your best options are to get PR?

What is included:

1) 30min in-depth consultation

2) 1-to-1 strategic planning session to get you from HERE to PR

3) Step-by-step recommendations by our most experienced migration agents and PR planning specialists

How would you like to have your consultation?

* Due to the complex nature of PR planning and in-depth research involved for high quality advice, this is a paid consultation.

Rest assured, initial consultations are 100% redeemable with most future service! (terms & conditions apply, see booking link for more).

Option 2:

Request Free Consulation

Please provide your details and a skilled migration specialist will be in touch. Due to high demand, spots are limited. If your case is urgent, consider booking a 1:1 Strategy Session with a senior migration agent for faster assistance.

Our senior migration consultants are experienced with all types of Australian visas
We have two options:
Book 1:1 Visa Strategy Session

What is included:

1) 30min in-depth consultation

2) 1-to-1 strategic planning session to get you from HERE to your migration goals

3) Step-by-step recommendations by our most experienced migration agents and PR planning specialists

How would you like to have your consultation?
Ask Us Here

We now have a dedicated FAQ page!

Ask questions and find answers from our experienced migration agents.

Our senior migration consultants are experienced with all types of Australian visas

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