Skilled migration
Subclass 189
Skilled Independent visa
Permanent residency based on your skills, with no employer or state sponsor needed.
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About the 189 visa
The 189 visa is for skilled workers who can be invited without a sponsor. You lodge an Expression of Interest (EOI) in SkillSelect and are ranked against others in your occupation.
Invitations go to the highest-ranked candidates, so every point counts. We help you maximise your score and keep your EOI accurate.
Key requirements
- Occupation on the relevant skilled occupation list
- Positive skills assessment
- Invitation to apply
- At least 65 points
- Under 45 when invited
- Competent English or higher
- Health and character requirements
What this visa lets you do
- Live, work and study anywhere in Australia
- Enrol in Medicare
- Sponsor eligible family
- Apply for citizenship when eligible
How to apply
- 01
Step 1
Points check and occupation confirmation
- 02
Step 2
Skills assessment and English test
- 03
Step 3
Lodge your EOI in SkillSelect
- 04
Step 4
Receive an invitation
- 05
Step 5
Lodge your visa application within 60 days
- 06
Step 6
Health checks, police certificates and a decision
Common reasons applications fail
- Claiming points you can't prove at the time of invitation
- Skills assessment that doesn't match the claimed employment
- English test expired at the time of invitation
- Missing police certificates or health checks
Download PDF
Skilled migration checklist
Free PDF checklist. Print it or save it to your phone before your consultation.
Download PDFGovernment fees
What Home Affairs charges, current as at 1 July 2026. These are not our professional fees.
Skilled visas (subclass 189, 190 and 491)
| Fee | Amount (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Skilled Independent (189), main applicant | $6,135 |
| Skilled Nominated (190) or Skilled Work Regional (491), main applicant | $6,140 |
| Each additional applicant aged 18 or over | $3,070 |
| Each additional applicant under 18 $1,540 for the 189. | $1,535 |
| Skills assessment Charged by the assessing authority, not Home Affairs. | Varies |
Not sure which visa fits?
Book a consultation and we'll map out your options.
Frequently asked questions
What is the minimum points score for the Skilled Independent visa (189)?
The pass mark is 65 points. In practice, invitations for many occupations go to people with much higher scores, so 65 points alone rarely leads to an invitation. Improving your English score or gaining more skilled work experience are common ways to raise your points.
How long does an Expression of Interest (EOI) stay in SkillSelect?
An EOI stays active in SkillSelect for 2 years. During that time it can be selected for an invitation if you meet the requirements. Update it whenever your points change, for example after a new English test or a birthday.
Is there an age limit for the 189 visa?
Yes. You must be under 45 when you are invited to apply for the Skilled Independent visa. Points for age are highest between 25 and 32, and you lose points as you get older, so the timing of your EOI and English test matters.
Can I include my family in a 189 visa application?
Yes. You can include your partner and dependent children. Each family member must meet health and character requirements. Your partner's skills or English may also add points to your score.
Should I also lodge an EOI for the 190 or 491?
Often, yes. Many applicants lodge EOIs for several skilled visas at once to improve their chances. State nomination adds 5 points for the 190 and 15 points for the 491.
General information only, not migration advice. Visa rules change often. We'll confirm what applies to you in a consultation. Last reviewed October 2026 by SavieMEC's registered migration agents.