The Subclass 189 Visa

The Subclass 189 visa, also known as the Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189), is a permanent residency visa designed for skilled workers who are not sponsored by an employer, a state, or a family member. It allows skilled workers and their families to live and work anywhere in Australia indefinitely

Key features of the Subclass 189 visa include:

• The Subclass 189 visa does not require sponsorship from an employer, state, or family member. Applicants are assessed solely based on their skills and qualifications.

• To be eligible for the Subclass 189 visa, applicants must meet the points threshold in Australia's points-based immigration system. Points are awarded based on factors such as age, English language proficiency, work experience, qualifications, and other criteria.

• Applicants must nominate an occupation from the relevant Skilled Occupation List (SOL) or Consolidated Sponsored Occupation List (CSOL) and have their skills assessed by the relevant assessing authority.

• Applicants must be invited to apply for the Subclass 189 visa through the Skill Select system. Skill Select is an online platform where prospective migrants submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) and indicate their desire to migrate to Australia.

• The Subclass 189 visa is a permanent residency visa, which means that once granted, visa holders and their eligible family members can live, work, and study in Australia indefinitely. They can also access healthcare and social security benefits.

• Holders of the Subclass 189 visa can apply for Australian citizenship if they meet the residency and other eligibility requirements.

Overall, the Subclass 189 visa is a popular pathway for skilled workers who want to migrate to Australia independently, without the need for employer or state sponsorship. It provides an opportunity for individuals with in-demand skills to establish themselves in Australia and enjoy the benefits of permanent residency.