Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) — eligibility, costs & how to apply

What is the subclass 189?

The Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) is one of Australia's most sought-after permanent residence visas. It is points-tested and not sponsored, which means you do not need an employer, a state nomination or a family sponsor — but you do need an invitation to apply through SkillSelect.

Because places are competitive and the points cut-off moves with demand for your occupation, getting your Expression of Interest (EOI) right matters. Many applicants leave easy points on the table or nominate the wrong occupation, which is exactly where a registered migration agent adds value.

Eligibility for the subclass 189

To be eligible for the subclass 189, you generally need to meet the following:

• Your occupation is on the relevant skilled occupation list (the MLTSSL)
• You have a positive skills assessment from the assessing authority for that occupation
• You are under 45 years of age at the time of invitation
• You score at least 65 points (competitive scores are usually higher)
• You have at least competent English (with more points for higher levels)
• You receive an invitation to apply after submitting an EOI

How to apply for the subclass 189

1. Have your skills formally assessed by the relevant assessing authority
2. Sit an English test and gather evidence of your age, qualifications and experience
3. Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) in SkillSelect with your claimed points
4. Receive an invitation to apply, then lodge a complete visa application within 60 days

Processing time and cost of the subclass 189

Processing times for the subclass 189 vary with demand, your occupation and how complete your application is — a well-prepared application with strong evidence is generally decided faster than one that triggers requests for more information. There is a visa application charge for you and each family member included. Because both the timeframe and the fees change, a registered migration agent can give you a current estimate for your situation.

Subclass 189 vs 190 vs 491 — which skilled visa is right for you?

The 189 is permanent and needs no sponsor, but the points cut-off is the highest of the three. The subclass 190 adds 5 points for a state nomination (you commit to that state), and the subclass 491 adds 15 points for regional nomination or an eligible relative but is a 5-year provisional visa with a pathway to permanent residence. If your 189 points are not yet competitive, a 190 or 491 is often the faster route — an agent can model all three for you.

Common subclass 189 mistakes to avoid

Many of these matters come down to avoidable mistakes. The most common issues include:

• Claiming points you cannot evidence (experience, English or qualifications)
• A skills assessment that does not match the nominated occupation
• Letting the invitation lapse or lodging an incomplete application
• Errors in dates, identity documents or work-reference letters

Do you need a migration agent for the subclass 189?

Using a registered migration agent is not compulsory, but the subclass 189 is detail-heavy and a single mistake, missing document or late response can lead to delay or refusal — and a refusal can affect future applications. A registered migration agent confirms your eligibility before you spend money, prepares your evidence, lodges your application correctly and manages any requests from the Department of Home Affairs on your behalf. Through Immigration Expert you can be matched with up to three OMARA-registered agents who handle the subclass 189 every day, compare their advice, and choose who to work with — free and with no obligation.