The Australian Skilled – Independent Visa (subclass 189) is an Australian skilled visa for skilled workers who are not sponsored by an employer, a state or territory, or a family member. A visa holder can live and work permanently anywhere in Australia. Certain family members can be included in the application.
You must score at least 65 points (the pass mark) to be eligible for this visa.
Australian Skilled Visa Process
The Skilled – Independent Visa (subclass 189) is based on a 3 stage application process.
- Stage 1: The first stage of the application process involves completing a skills assessment with the relevant Government body. Your skills assessment enables the Department of Home Affairs (DOHA) to judge if you have the required level of skill in your chosen occupation to practice in Australia.
- Stage 2: Once you have received a positive skills assessment, you will need to submit an Expression of Interest through SkillSelect. You can do this in or outside Australia.
- Stage 3: Once you have been issued an Invitation To Apply (ITA), you can continue to the DOHA stage of the application, where you can submit your final, complete application to be approved by DOHA so your visa can be granted.