Subclass 189 Visa: Skilled Independent
A permanent visa for skilled workers who score enough points to be invited, with no employer, state or family sponsor needed.
Reviewed by Muskaan Ahuja, Registered Migration Agent (MARN 2418455) · Last reviewed
In short: The Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) is a permanent visa for invited skilled workers. You need an occupation on the relevant skilled list, a positive skills assessment, competent English, to be under 45 when invited and at least 65 points, then an invitation through SkillSelect.
Who this visa suits
- Skilled workers whose occupation is on the medium- and long-term list
- People with high points (age, English, experience, qualifications)
- Anyone who wants to live and work anywhere in Australia without a sponsor
| Type | Permanent residence from grant |
|---|---|
| Where you can live | Anywhere in Australia |
| Family | Partner and dependent children can be included |
| Travel | Travel facility for 5 years from grant |
| Citizenship | Possible later, once you meet the residence requirement |
Official information: Skilled Independent visa (189). Part of our Skilled migration services.
Requirements
The main requirements. We check each one against your situation before you apply.
Eligible occupation
On the skilled occupation list that applies to the 189 when you are invited.
Skills assessment
A positive, valid assessment from the authority for your occupation.
Under 45
Your age when you are invited, not when you apply.
Competent English
Higher scores add points.
65+ points
Invitations are often issued at higher scores, depending on the occupation.
Health & character
For you and family members in the application.
Document checklist
Most applications need the following. Your exact list depends on your circumstances; we give you a personalised checklist.
- Passport and birth certificate
- Skills assessment outcome
- English test results (valid at invitation)
- Qualification certificates and transcripts
- Employment references, payslips, tax and superannuation records for each job you claim
- Evidence for bonus points (Australian study, Professional Year, NAATI, partner skills)
- Police certificates and health examinations
- Relationship and identity documents for family members
Costs
| Visa | Main applicant | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Skilled Independent (189) | AUD 6,000–6,500* | Main applicant; family members pay extra. |
*Indicative range only. Government visa charges change often (usually each 1 July) and depend on your circumstances and family members. Your total cost may also include our professional service fee and other costs such as health checks, police certificates, skills assessments and translations. Terms and conditions apply. Confirm the current amount for your family in the official Visa Pricing Estimator, or ask us for a fixed written quote before any work starts.
Step by step
- Confirm your occupationCheck the right code and that it is on the 189 list.
- Skills assessment & EnglishGet both done; they drive your points.
- Lodge your EOIClaim only points you can prove, in SkillSelect.
- Receive an invitationInvitations follow the rounds; scores vary by occupation.
- Lodge within 60 daysUpload evidence for every point claimed.
- Checks & grantHealth, police and any requests, then permanent residence.
Common mistakes and refusal reasons
- Claiming work experience the assessing authority did not count as skilled
- Letting the English test or skills assessment expire before invitation
- Turning 45, or a points change, between the EOI and the invitation
- Missing evidence for one of the points claimed
- Choosing the wrong occupation code for your duties
If your points are short, the 190 (+5) or 491 (+15) can help, or an employer may sponsor you through the 186.
Recent changes
1 July 2026: Charge rose to AUD 6,000–6,500*.
May 2026 Budget: Points test reform announced, flagged from 1 July 2027 subject to legislation; the current test still applies.
Questions
Can’t see your question? Ask a registered migration agent in a free 15-minute consultation.
Book a free consultationHow long is the 189 EOI valid?+
Can I include my partner?+
Do I have to live in a particular state?+
What is the minimum score to get invited?+
Talk to us about your visa.
Book a free 15-minute consultation with a registered migration agent (MARN 2418455).
- Registered migration agentMuskaan Ahuja, MARN 2418455
- Free 15-minute consultationBy phone, online or at our Hawthorn office
- Reply within 1 business dayCall, WhatsApp or the Free Profile Assessment
- Fixed-fee quote in writingBefore any work starts, no hidden charges