The skilled independent visa: a comprehensive guide to Australia's most popular permanent residency

Australia’s skilled independent visa (subclass 189) is a permanent residency visa for skilled workers who are not sponsored by an employer, a family member, or a state or territory government. This visa is part of the points-tested stream of Australia’s skilled migration program.

To be eligible for this visa, you must first submit an expression of interest (EOI) through Australia’s Department of Home Affairs and be invited to apply. Invitations are based on your points score, which is calculated based on factors such as your age, work experience, English language ability, and qualifications.

If you are invited to apply for this visa, you must do so within 60 days. The processing time for this visa is typically 3 months, but it can vary depending on your circumstances. The visa costs AUD4,240 for the main applicant and AUD$2,120 for each additional family member.

This article provides a comprehensive guide to Australia’s skilled independent visa (subclass 189), including information on eligibility, points scoring, processing times,

Eligibility Requirements for the Skilled Independent Visa: To be eligible for this visa, you must first submit an expression of interest (EOI) through the Department of Home Affairs. Your EOI will be assessed against a points-test system, which determines whether or not you will be invited to apply. Points are awarded based on age, work experience, English language ability, and qualifications. Only those who score 65 or more points on the points-test system will be invited to apply: those who do not meet the minimum points requirement are not eligible for this visa. In addition to the points-test system, you must also meet certain health and character requirements, as well as satisfy the Department of Home Affairs that you have at least the equivalent of a competent IELTS score (at least 6.0 in each band). Along with a positive skills assessment for the profession you have chosen, you will also need to show proof of at least two years of relevant post-qualification work experience.

The Benefits of the Skilled Independent Visa: Once you have been granted the Skilled Independent Visa, you are granted full permanent resident status in Australia. This means you are eligible for a permanent visa and can travel in and out of Australia without restrictions. As a permanent resident, you are also eligible for social security, certain welfare benefits, and to enrol in Australia’s public health care system. As a skilled independent visa holder, you can work and live anywhere in Australia, for any employer and in any occupation that you are qualified to do. You can also apply for Australian citizenship after four years of visa validity, and you can also sponsor your family members to join you in Australia.

The Application Process for the Skilled Independent Visa: The application process for the Skilled Independent Visa involves submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI) through the Department of Home Affairs. Your EOI will be assessed according to the points test and you will be invited to apply if you meet the minimum points requirement. Once you have been invited to apply, you will need to provide evidence of your claims in the form of ID documents and other relevant information. After your application has been submitted, you may need to undergo medical and character checks. If your application is successful, you will be granted a permanent resident visa, which is valid for five years. You will also be issued a permanent resident visa card before departing Australia.

Australia’s skilled independent visa (subclass 189) is an excellent way for qualified individuals to obtain permanent residency in Australia. To be eligible for this visa, you must first submit an expression of interest (EOI) through the Department of Home Affairs and be invited to apply based on your points score. This visa provides a range of benefits, such as the right to work and live anywhere in Australia, eligibility for social security and welfare benefits, and the ability to sponsor family members. The application process involves submitting an EOI, providing evidence of claims, and undergoing medical and character checks.