Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)
The Subclass 189 Skilled Independent visa is a points-tested permanent visa for invited skilled workers who do not need an employer, state or family sponsor. It grants permanent residence on grant, with the freedom to live, work and study anywhere in Australia. Because it requires no sponsorship, it is one of the most sought-after – and most competitive – skilled pathways.
Book a 30-minute consultation with a qualified migration agent — AUD $300.
Key features
- Permanent residence from the date the visa is granted.
- No employer, state or family sponsorship required.
- Live and work anywhere in Australia, with no location conditions.
- You can include your partner and dependent children.
- Selection is competitive and points-based.
Eligibility at a glance
- A nominated occupation on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL).
- A positive skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority.
- Under 45 years of age at the time of invitation.
- At least Competent English (higher levels can earn extra points).
- A points score that is competitive enough to be invited (65 is the minimum to be considered).
- Health and character requirements met.
Occupation lists and settings change. Confirm that your occupation is currently on the MLTSSL, and check current requirements, with the Department of Home Affairs before relying on them.
2026 update – occupation list: The Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL) introduced in December 2024 applies to the employer-sponsored 482 and 186 visas — not the 189. The 189 continues to use the MLTSSL, so check your occupation there.
How competitive is the 189?
The minimum score to submit an Expression of Interest is 65 points, but 65 is the floor, not the target. Because the 189 offers no sponsorship points, candidates compete on their own points and are ranked against others in their occupation, so invitations often require scores well above the minimum. The exact cut-off varies by occupation and by invitation round.
2026 note – points reform: The 2026–27 Budget announced an “optimised” points test favouring younger, higher-skilled and better-educated applicants. It is not yet legislated; the current test still applies and issued invitations will be honoured.
Is the 189 right for you?
The 189 suits high-scoring applicants who want unrestricted permanent residence and are not tied to any state or regional area. If your score is not competitive for a 189, a state-nominated 190 or a regional 491 may open a path that the 189 does not – something we can assess in a consultation. We regularly advise applicants in Türkiye and the Philippines, as well as those already onshore.
The application process
- Obtain a positive skills assessment for your nominated occupation.
- Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) in SkillSelect, claiming your points.
- If invited, lodge a complete visa application within the period set by the Department.
- Provide supporting evidence and meet health and character requirements.
Book a 30-minute consultation with a qualified migration agent — AUD $300.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Subclass 189 visa?
The Subclass 189 Skilled Independent visa is a points-tested permanent visa for invited skilled workers who do not require an employer, state or family sponsor. It grants permanent residence on grant, with freedom to live and work anywhere in Australia.
Do I need a sponsor or nomination for the 189?
No. The 189 is fully independent — it does not require an employer, a state or territory nomination, or a family sponsor. You are selected on the strength of your own points score.
How many points do I need for a 189?
You need at least 65 points to be considered, but 65 is the minimum, not a guarantee. Because there are no sponsorship points, the 189 is highly competitive and invitations often require higher scores, which vary by occupation and invitation round.
Which occupation list applies to the 189?
The Subclass 189 draws on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL), and you generally need a positive skills assessment for your nominated occupation. The Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL) does not apply to the 189 — it is for the employer-sponsored 482 and 186. Occupation lists change, so confirm your occupation against the current Department of Home Affairs list.
Is the 189 permanent from grant?
Yes. The Subclass 189 grants permanent residence from the date the visa is granted, allowing you to live, work and study anywhere in Australia.