Skilled Independent visa subclass 189 is a point-based permanent residency for citizens of New Zealand, Hong Kong, and residents of British citizenship. This visa allows them to settle permanently in Australia, either alone or with their spouse or de facto partner, and with children, to live and work anywhere in the country and enjoy all the benefits of Australian citizenship.
To apply for a Skilled Independent Visa Subclass 189, you must clear the point test stream by scoring 65 or more points for your occupation on the Skilled List. Lodge your EOI (Expression of Interest) with the Department of Home Affairs. wait for your invitation, apply for the visa until the department’s decision comes, and get your subclass 189 visa.
Benefits of the 189 Visa for Skilled Workers
- You can stay, work, or study independently in Australia.
- Enrol in medical and Australia’s healthcare facilities.
- Sponsor eligible family members to get permanent residence in the country.
- Travel to and from Australia for five years after getting a visa.
- You can even apply for Australian citizenship after five years.
Australia’s 189 Visa Checklist: Essential Documents
Identity Documents
- Valid passport.
- CV.
- Marriage certificate or de facto registration.
- Birth certificates of children.
- Relevant qualification certificate.
- Relevant registration or licenses.
Skills Assessment Papers
- Relevant skills assessment with more than 65 points.
- Work experience in the relevant skills.
- Professional year certificate.
English Test Results
- Community Credential Language certificate with a minimum of 6 score points.
Employment References
- Previous employment reference.
- Payslip of the last payment.
- Bank statements.
- Tax record.
Character (Police Clearance) Certificates
- Declaration of all criminal conduct in any country.
- Provide all requested information to the authorised department.
- Form 89: Personal particulars for character assessment.
- Form 1563, which includes a statement of character.
- Form 1399 provides a declaration of services.
Health Examination Reports
- Overall, medical exams include X-ray tests, urine samples, and blood tests.
Partner & Dependent Documents (If Applicable)
- All the personnel documents that are mentioned above.
189 Visa Points Test Explained
The skilled independent visa subclass 189 requires applicants to score specific points in various categories to apply for the visa application process, which are mentioned below.
Age
- Age group of 18 to 25:- 25 points.
- Age within 26 to 33:- 30 points.
- 34 to 40 age group:- 25 points.
- 40 to less than 45:- 15 points.
English Language
- Competent English:- 0 points.
- Perfect English:- 10 points.
- Superior English:- 20 points.
Work Experience
- Less than 3 years:- 0 points.
- Experience of 3 to 5 years:- 5 points.
- 6 to 8 years of experience:- 10 points.
- At least 8 years of experience:- 15 points.
Education
- A Doctorate from Australia and other countries:- 20 points.
- Bachelor’s from an Australian institution or other universities:- 15 points.
- A diploma or trade qualification:- 10 points.
- Attained qualification or awards in your nominated skilled occupation:- 10 points.
Extra Points Options (Partner Skills, NAATI, Australian Study)
- Competent English for the spouse of a de facto partner:- 10 points.
- Partner with Australian citizenship:- 10 points.
Cost to Apply for 189 Visa in Australia
The Government of Australia has different charges depending on the type of applicant, which includes your family. The cost of the skilled independent visa subclass 189 can also vary depending on the skills you have applied for. You can check below.
Visa Application Charges
Skilled independent visa subclass 189 may cost up to AUD 4045 for the main applicant, charged by the Australian Government.
Additional Applicant Fees
Additionally, applicants over 18 years old can cost up to AUD 2025, and those under 18 might cost up to AUD 1015.
Skills Assessment Cost
Your skills assessment cost may vary between AUD 374 and AUD 1000, depending on the skills points.
English Test & Medical Exam Cost
You need to pay around AUD 300 to AUD 400 for your IELTS/PET examination and AUD 300 to AUD 500 for a medical examination.
Don’t risk refusal—trust the best registered migration agent for your visa success.
The Skilled Independent Visa Subclass 189 offers skilled individuals a straightforward and streamlined opportunity to obtain residency in Australia, with no sponsorship requirements. To make this transition smooth and effortless, contact Best Migration Agent in Perth and get skilled guidance to make this transition smooth and effortless.

