Subclass 189 Visa - Skilled Independent

Skilled Independent Visa 189

The Subclass 189 Visa is a points-based visa that offers skilled workers the opportunity to obtain permanent residency in Australia. Unlike other skilled visas, the Subclass 189 Visa does not require sponsorship from an employer, state, or territory, nor does it need a family member’s endorsement. This visa is designed for highly skilled individuals who possess qualifications and experience in occupations that are in demand across Australia.

By securing a Subclass 189 Visa, you gain the freedom to live and work anywhere in Australia, with access to all the benefits of permanent residency, including healthcare, education, and the ability to apply for Australian citizenship in the future. This visa represents a significant step towards building a stable and prosperous life in Australia, offering you and your family a secure pathway to long-term residency and success in one of the world's most dynamic and diverse countries.

Key Features

The Subclass 189 Visa offers a range of benefits that make it an attractive option for skilled workers seeking permanent residency in Australia. Below are the key features of this visa:

1. Permanent Residency

• Lifetime Validity: Grants you the right to live in Australia indefinitely.
• Work and Study: Allows you to work and study anywhere within Australia without restrictions.
• Social Security Benefits: Eligibility for certain social security payments after meeting waiting periods.

2. No Sponsorship Required

• Independent Application: Does not require sponsorship from an employer, state, territory, or family member.
• Flexibility: Provides greater autonomy in choosing where to live and work in Australia.

3. Include Eligible Family Members

• Family Coverage: You can include your partner and dependent children in your application, allowing them to enjoy the same rights and privileges.
• Unified Relocation: Enables your entire family to move to Australia together under one visa application.

4. Access to Healthcare

• Medicare Enrollment: Grants access to Australia's public healthcare system, Medicare, providing free or subsidized health services.
• Comprehensive Coverage: Covers a wide range of medical services, ensuring health security for you and your family.

5. Pathway to Australian Citizenship

• Citizenship Eligibility: After fulfilling residency and other requirements, you become eligible to apply for Australian citizenship.
• Dual Citizenship: Australia allows dual citizenship, enabling you to retain your original citizenship alongside Australian citizenship.

6. Freedom to Live and Work Anywhere

• Geographical Flexibility: No restrictions on where you can live, work, or study within Australia, offering opportunities across all states and territories.
• Employment Opportunities: Access to a wide range of job markets and educational institutions nationwide.

7. Travel Rights

• Multiple Entries: Unlimited travel to and from Australia for five years from the date the visa is granted.
• Renewable Travel Facility: After five years, you can renew your travel facility or apply for Australian citizenship for unrestricted travel rights.

8. Educational Opportunities

• Access to Education: Opportunity to enroll in world-class educational institutions for you and your dependents.
• Student Loans: Eligibility for certain government-funded student loans and support programs.

9. Social and Economic Benefits

• Property Ownership: Right to purchase property in Australia without restrictions that apply to temporary residents.
• Financial Services: Access to a wide range of financial services, including loans and credit facilities.
• Social Integration: Eligibility to participate fully in Australian society, including voting in certain elections after attaining citizenship.

10. Support for Settlement

• Settlement Services: Access to government-funded settlement services to help you adjust to life in Australia.
• Community Networks: Opportunity to connect with diverse communities and professional networks across the country.

These comprehensive features make the Subclass 189 Visa a highly sought-after pathway for skilled professionals aspiring to build a successful and fulfilling life in Australia. With permanent residency status, you and your family can enjoy the stability, opportunities, and high quality of life that Australia has to offer.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the Subclass 189 Visa, you must meet a range of requirements that ensure you possess the skills and qualifications needed to contribute to Australia's economy. Below are the key eligibility criteria for this visa:

1. Skilled Occupation List

• Relevant Occupation: Your occupation must be on the relevant Skilled Occupation List (SOL) as specified by the Australian government.
• Job Alignment: You must demonstrate that your qualifications and work experience align with an occupation listed on the SOL.

2. Points Test

• Minimum Score: You must score at least 65 points on the points test, which assesses your suitability based on factors like age, English proficiency, work experience, and education.
• Scoring Factors:
  • Age: Higher points for applicants between 25 and 32 years old.
  • English Language Proficiency: Points awarded based on your level of English, assessed through an approved language test.
  • Skilled Employment: Points for work experience in your nominated occupation, both in Australia and overseas.
  • Educational Qualifications: Points for qualifications such as a bachelor's degree, master's degree, or PhD from an accredited institution.
  • Other Factors: Additional points for factors such as studying in Australia, professional year programs, and partner skills.

3. Skills Assessment

• Positive Assessment: You must obtain a positive skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority for your occupation.
• Authority Requirement: The assessment must be from an authority recognized by the Australian government and be specific to your occupation.

4. Age Limit

• Under 45 Years: You must be under the age of 45 at the time of receiving an invitation to apply for the visa.

5. English Language Proficiency

• Competent English: You must demonstrate competent English language skills, typically through an approved test such as IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL.
• Higher Points for Proficiency: Achieving a higher score on your English test can contribute more points to your overall points test score.

6. Expression of Interest (EOI)

• Submit EOI: You must submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through the SkillSelect system, where you express your interest in applying for the Subclass 189 Visa.
• Invitation to Apply: Only after receiving an invitation from the Department of Home Affairs can you proceed to submit your visa application.

7. Health and Character Requirements

• Health Examination: You and any family members included in your application must meet Australia's health requirements, typically assessed through medical examinations.
• Character Assessment: You must provide police clearance certificates to meet Australia's character requirements, ensuring you have no significant criminal history.

8. No Prior Visa Cancellation or Refusal

• Visa History: You must not have had a visa application refused or a visa canceled while you were in Australia, as this may affect your eligibility.

By meeting these criteria, you position yourself as a strong candidate for the Subclass 189 Visa, paving the way for permanent residency in Australia. If you're unsure about any aspect of these requirements, VisaFast is here to guide you through the process and ensure you meet all necessary qualifications for a successful application.

Application Process

The application process for the Subclass 189 Visa involves several key steps, each of which must be carefully completed to ensure a successful outcome. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process:

1. Check Your Eligibility

• Self-Assessment: Before starting the process, verify that you meet all the eligibility criteria, including having a relevant occupation, scoring at least 65 points, and passing the skills assessment.
• Points Calculator: Use a points calculator to estimate your points based on age, English proficiency, work experience, and education.

2. Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)

• Create a SkillSelect Profile: Register your details and create an EOI through the Australian government's SkillSelect system.
• Provide Accurate Information: Enter your personal details, qualifications, work experience, and other relevant information accurately.
• Select the 189 Visa: Choose the Subclass 189 Visa as your preferred visa option in your EOI.
• Wait for an Invitation: Your EOI will be ranked based on your points score, and you will be placed in a pool with other candidates. The Department of Home Affairs will invite the highest-ranking candidates to apply for the visa.

3. Receive an Invitation to Apply

• Invitation to Apply: If your EOI is successful and you are among the top-ranking candidates, you will receive an official invitation from the Department of Home Affairs to apply for the Subclass 189 Visa.
• Timeframe for Application: You have 60 days from the date of invitation to submit your visa application.

4. Lodge Your Visa Application

• Gather Required Documents: Collect all necessary documents, including identity documents, skills assessment results, English language test results, and health and character certifications.
• Online Submission: Submit your visa application online through the ImmiAccount portal, ensuring that all information is complete and accurate.
• Pay the Application Fee: Pay the visa application fee at the time of submission. The fee varies depending on the number of applicants and their age.
• Include Family Members: If applicable, include eligible family members in your visa application, providing all necessary documentation for each.

5. Attend Health Examinations and Provide Biometrics

• Health Checks: Undergo mandatory health examinations as required by the Department of Home Affairs. These assessments ensure that you and your family members meet Australia's health requirements.
• Biometric Information: If requested, provide biometric information, such as fingerprints and photographs, as part of the application process.

6. Await Processing

• Processing Times: The processing time for the Subclass 189 Visa can vary, typically taking between 6 to 12 months. Processing times depend on various factors, including the complexity of your case and the number of applications being processed.
• Tracking Progress: You can track the status of your application through your ImmiAccount.

7. Visa Outcome

• Visa Grant Notification: If your application is successful, you will receive a visa grant notification via email, which will include your visa grant number, the start date of your visa, and any visa conditions.
• Enter Australia: Once your visa is granted, you are free to travel to and live in Australia permanently. Make sure to enter Australia before the specified initial entry date.

8. If Your Visa is Refused

• Review Options: If your visa application is refused, you may be eligible to appeal the decision through the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT). Ensure you understand the reasons for the refusal and seek professional advice if needed.

Points Calculation

Understanding the points system is crucial to determining your eligibility for the Subclass 189 Visa. The Points Calculator allows you to estimate your score based on various factors that the Australian government considers important for skilled migration. Below is a breakdown of the key criteria used to calculate your points:

1. Age

• 18-24 years: 25 points
• 25-32 years: 30 points
• 33-39 years: 25 points
• 40-44 years: 15 points
• 45 years and older: 0 points

2. English Language Proficiency

• Competent English: 0 points (IELTS 6.0 or equivalent)
• Proficient English: 10 points (IELTS 7.0 or equivalent)
• Superior English: 20 points (IELTS 8.0 or equivalent)

3. Skilled Employment Experience

• Overseas Work Experience in a Nominated Occupation:
  • Less than 3 years: 0 points
  • 3-4 years: 5 points
  • 5-7 years: 10 points
  • 8 years or more: 15 points
• Australian Work Experience in a Nominated Occupation:
  • Less than 1 year: 0 points
  • 1-2 years: 5 points
  • 3-4 years: 10 points
  • 5-7 years: 15 points
  • 8 years or more: 20 points

4. Educational Qualifications

• Doctorate (PhD): 20 points
• Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree: 15 points
• Australian Diploma or Trade Qualification: 10 points
• Award or qualification recognized by the relevant assessing authority for your nominated occupation: 10 points

5. Australian Study Requirement

• Completed at least two academic years of study in Australia: 5 points

6. Specialist Education Qualification

• Master’s degree by research or a Doctorate degree from an Australian educational institution in a relevant field: 10 points

7. Credentialed Community Language

• Accredited by NAATI as a translator or interpreter in a community language: 5 points

8. Study in Regional Australia

• Completed a qualification in a regional area of Australia: 5 points

9. Partner Skills

• Partner meets age, English, and skill requirements: 10 points
• Partner has competent English but does not meet skills requirement: 5 points
• Single applicant or partner is an Australian citizen or permanent resident: 10 points

10. Professional Year in Australia

• Completion of a professional year in Australia in your nominated occupation: 5 points

How to Use the Points Calculator

Using our Points Calculator tool, you can input your details in each of these categories to see how many points you score. This will help you determine whether you meet the minimum threshold of 65 points required to be eligible for the Subclass 189 Visa. If your score is close to or exceeds 65 points, you are in a strong position to proceed with your visa application.

At VisaFast, we also offer personalized consultations to help you optimize your points score and strengthen your visa application. Our experts can guide you on how to improve your eligibility, whether through additional qualifications, work experience, or other factors.

Explore your potential for permanent residency in Australia today by using our Points Calculator!

Costs

Visa Application Fees:

• Primary Applicant: AUD 4,765
• Additional Adult Applicant: AUD 2,385
• Additional Child Applicant: AUD 1,195

Other Costs: (e.g., skills assessment, English test, health checks, police clearance certificate).

Subclass 189 Document Checklist

Preparing your application for the Subclass 189 Visa requires gathering a comprehensive set of documents to support your eligibility and ensure a smooth application process. Below is a detailed document checklist to help you organize everything you need:

1. Identity Documents

• Passport: A copy of the bio-data page of your current passport.
• National ID Card: A copy of your national identity card, if applicable.
• Birth Certificate: A copy of your birth certificate showing your name, birth date, and both parents' names.

2. Skills Assessment

• Skills Assessment Report: A positive skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority for your nominated occupation.
• Evidence of Qualifications: Copies of your academic qualifications, such as degrees or diplomas, relevant to your nominated occupation.
• Work Experience Documents: Proof of your work experience, including reference letters from employers detailing your role, duties, and employment duration. Payment Evidence such as payslips, bank statements and tax returns.

3. English Language Proficiency

• English Test Results: Official results from an approved English language test (e.g., IELTS, PTE, TOEFL) taken within the last three years, showing your proficiency level.

4. Points Test Documents

• Age Proof: A copy of your passport or birth certificate to confirm your age.
• Educational Qualifications: Certified copies of your degrees, diplomas, or trade qualifications.
• Australian Study Requirement: Evidence that you completed at least two academic years of study in Australia, if applicable.
• Work Experience: Reference letters, payslips, and tax records to support your claimed skilled work experience.
• Professional Year Program: Evidence of completing a Professional Year in Australia, if applicable.
• Partner Documents: If claiming partner points, provide your partner's skills assessment, English test results, and proof of relationship.

5. Expression of Interest (EOI)

• EOI Summary: A copy of your EOI lodged through SkillSelect, including your unique EOI number and all the details provided.

6. Health and Character Requirements

• Health Examination Reports: Medical examination reports and relevant health documents, as required by the Department of Home Affairs.
• Police Clearance Certificates: Police checks from each country you have lived in for 12 months or more over the past 10 years since turning 16.
• Form 80: Personal particulars for character assessment (Form 80), providing details about your travel history, employment, and other background information.

7. Relationship Documents (if applicable)

• Marriage Certificate: A certified copy of your marriage certificate if you are married.
• De Facto Relationship Evidence: Documents such as joint bank statements, lease agreements, or utility bills showing shared financial responsibilities, if in a de facto relationship.
• Children's Birth Certificates: Copies of birth certificates and Passport for any dependent children included in your application.
• Adoption Papers: If applicable, certified copies of legal adoption papers for any adopted children.

8. Miscellaneous

• Passport Photos: Recent digital passport-sized photographs of yourself and any family members included in the application.
• Form 1221: Additional personal particulars form (Form 1221), if requested by the Department of Home Affairs.
• Affidavits/Statutory Declarations: Any affidavits or statutory declarations required to explain any discrepancies or provide additional context to your application.

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