Are you a qualified professional seeking permanent residence and employment in Australia? The skilled independent visa for Australia can be the best choice for you if you do not have family or employer sponsorship and want the freedom to live anywhere in the nation. This visa, officially known as Subclass 189, is granted permanent residency solely on the basis of your qualifications, abilities, and point total.

We will go over the advantages, eligibility requirements, 189 visa occupation list, 189 visa processing time, and more in this article to help you decide if this option is correct for you.

What is the Skilled Independent Visa Australia?

The skilled independent visa For skilled workers, the Australia visa, also known as the Subclass 189 visa, is a points-tested permanent resident visa. It is special since you can apply without a state or territorial nomination, an employer, or a family member. You can apply on your own as long as you match the requirements and your career is in demand.

This visa allows you to:

lLive and work anywhere in Australia

lBring eligible family members with you

lAccess Medicare (Australia’s public health system)

lApply for Australian citizenship once eligible

lTravel in and out of Australia freely for five years 

Who Should Consider the Visa Subclass 189?

You might consider applying for the visa subclass 189 if:

lYou are under 45 years old

lYou have qualifications and work experience in a high-demand occupation

lYou want the flexibility to live anywhere in Australia

lYou are not sponsored by a state, territory, employer, or relative

lYou can score at least 65 points on Australia’s skilled migration points test

This visa suits independent individuals who meet the criteria and want the freedom to choose where to live and work. 

Understanding the 189 Visa Requirements

Before you apply, it’s essential to meet all the 189 visa requirements. Here are the key eligibility criteria:

1. Nominated Occupation on the 189 Visa Occupation List

Your occupation needs to be on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL), which is the occupation list for 189 visas. Jobs like engineers, IT specialists, healthcare professionals, and tradespeople are on this list because they are in high demand throughout Australia. 

2. Skills Assessment

You must obtain a positive skills assessment from the designated authority for your occupation. This proves your qualifications and work experience meet Australian standards.

3. Points Test (Minimum 65 Points)

You must score at least 65 points in the General Skilled Migration (GSM) points test. Points are awarded based on:

lAge

lEnglish language ability

lSkilled work experience (in and outside Australia)

lEducational qualifications

lPartner qualifications

lAustralian study

lRegional study and community language skills

4. English Language Requirement

You must demonstrate at least a “Competent” level of English, which typically means a minimum IELTS score of 6 in each band or an equivalent in another accepted test (PTE, TOEFL, etc.).

5. Age Requirement

Applicants must be under 45 years old at the time of invitation to apply for the visa.

6. Health and Character Requirements

You and any family members included in your application must undergo health examinations and provide police clearance certificates. 

What is the 189 Visa Occupation List?

The 189 visa occupation list includes occupations that are in long-term demand across Australia. Some common job categories on this list include:

lMedical professionals (nurses, general practitioners, radiologists)

lEngineers (civil, mechanical, electrical)

lIT professionals (software engineers, developers, cybersecurity specialists)

lTrades (electricians, plumbers, carpenters)

lTeachers (secondary school, special education)

You can check the current occupation list on the Australian Government’s Department of Home Affairs website to see if your job is eligible.

How Does the Application Process Work?

Applying for the 189 visa Australia involves multiple steps. Here’s a simplified overview:

Step 1: Skills Assessment

Contact the relevant assessing authority and submit your qualifications and work history. This is a mandatory requirement before you can submit your Expression of Interest (EOI).

Step 2: English Language Test

Take an approved English test such as IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL and obtain the required score.

Step 3: Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)

Create an account on SkillSelect and submit your EOI, detailing your qualifications, work experience, and other criteria.

Step 4: Receive an Invitation

If your EOI meets the competitive score threshold and your occupation is in demand, you may receive an invitation to apply for the visa subclass 189. 

Step 5: Lodge Your Visa Application

Once invited, you have 60 days to submit a complete visa application online with all required documentation.

Step 6: Health and Character Checks

Attend medical examinations and submit police certificates.

Step 7: Wait for a Decision

After submission, your application will be processed, and you’ll be notified of the outcome.

What is the Average 189 Visa Processing Time?

The 189 visa processing time can vary depending on factors such as application volume, completeness of documentation, and your occupation.

As of 2025, general processing times are:

l75% of applications processed within 8 months

l90% of applications processed within 12 months

To avoid delays, ensure your application is complete and accurate, and all required documents are submitted promptly.

Benefits of the 189 Visa Australia

Choosing the 189 visa Australia offers several advantages over other visa subclasses:

lNo Sponsorship Required – You don’t need to rely on an employer or government body.

lFull Work Rights – You can work in any field, for any employer, anywhere in Australia.

lPathway to Citizenship – After four years of residency (with at least one year as a permanent resident), you can apply for citizenship.

lAccess to Healthcare and Education – You can use Medicare and enroll children in public schools. 

Is the Skilled Independent Visa Australia Right for You?

This visa is ideal for highly skilled, self-sufficient professionals who want to migrate to Australia without being tied to a specific employer or location. If you:

lWork in a profession listed on the 189 visa occupation list

lCan meet the 189 visa requirements

lWant freedom and flexibility

lHave a strong points score

then the skilled independent visa Australia could be the perfect solution for you and your family. 

Final Thoughts

One of the most popular alternatives for qualified professionals seeking permanent residency in Australia is the visa subclass 189. It provides a degree of freedom and flexibility that many other visas do not, as it entails no sponsorship requirements and permits the individual to reside and work anywhere in the nation.

But fulfilling the 189 visa requirements is only the first step, and competition is fierce. A high points score, a favorable skills evaluation, and thorough documentation will help your application stand out.

Are you prepared to move forward? Look up your profession from the list of occupations for 189 visas, then begin drafting your Expression of Interest right now. The 189 visa Australia can be your ticket to a new life in Australia if you plan ahead.