What is a Subclass 189 Skilled Independent Visa?
The Subclass 189 Visa is the most sought-after immigration pathway for skilled individuals seeking permanent residency in Australia.
This visa operates independently, bypassing the need for sponsorship from an Australian employer, family member, or State/Territory government. Selection is based solely on individual skills and qualifications.
Timeline of key changes – 189 Visa
21 August 2025
- First invitation round for 2025-2026 financial year, and first since November 2024.
7 November 2024
- 15,000 invitations sent for Subclass 189 visas. No 491 family-sponsored visas invited.
1 July 2023
- New Zealand Stream 189 visa permanently closed to new applicants.
10 December 2022
- New Zealand Stream 189 visa temporarily closed to new applicants, allowing Immigration to undertake a review of visa settings for this cohort.
8 December 2022
- Last of the ‘regular’ invitation rounds. Future rounds are sporadic and often without notice.
16 November 2019
- Partner points introduced, allowing applicants to claim further points for partner’s skills and English ability
- Additional points available for students who lived in and completed their studies in a regional area of Australia (excludes Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane).
1 July 2018
- Minimum score for GSM increased from 60 to 65 points in total
1 July 2017
- New Zealand Stream of 189 visa introduced. Not points-tested. Requires applicant to be living and working in Australia for at least 5 years and earning a minimum income for each financial year.
10 September 2016
- Specialist educational qualification points become available to those who have completed a Masters by research or Doctoral degree in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) or ICT (Information and Communication Technology) field at an Australian educational institution
22 September 2015
- Immigration enacts a ‘cap and cease’ for all undecided Subclass 175 visa applications, meaning these are taken to have never been made.
1 July 2012
- Introduction of SkillSelect system. Migrants can no longer apply directly for a GSM visa, but must lodge an Expression of Interest and wait for an invitation.
- Subclass 189 (Skilled Independent) visa replaces the Subclass 175 visa
Subclass 189 Visa Streams
Points Tested Stream
Applicants undergo evaluation through a points-based system, where factors like age, English language proficiency, work experience, and education contribute to their overall score. Meeting a minimum threshold is essential for qualification.
Applicants must:
- be under 45 years of age
- nominate an occupation from the Medium-Long Term Skills Shortage List (MLTSSL)
- obtain the specified skills assessment for the nominated occupation
- demonstrate at least Competent English (secondary applicants over 18 must show Functional English)
- meet health and character requirements
The first step in the application process is to submit an Expression of Interest via the SkillSelect system. The system processes EOIs in pre-determined ’rounds’, issuing invitations based on occupation and points score. Once invited, applicants can proceed with the actual 189 visa application.
Competition for the 189 visa is fierce, so applicants are advised to obtain the highest points scores possible. Contact AVIE to discuss how you can strengthen your EOI application.
Hong Kong Stream
This stream provides certain Hong Kong passport holders who have exhibited dedication to Australia with the chance to settle and work in the country permanently.
Applicants must:
- hold an eligible visa, being a subclass 457, 482, or 485 that was granted on the basis of satisfying the primary criteria
- have been usually resident in Australia for at least 4 years immediately before lodging an application
- demonstrate at least Functional English
- have complied with the conditions of their eligible visa
- meet health and character requirements
This is a direct application for a 189 visa and is not processed through the SkillSelect system.
How much does a 189 visa application cost?
As of 1 July 2025, the government application fees are as follows:
Expression of Interest – nil
Visa Application – Main Applicant – $4,910
Visa Application – Dependent Applicant over 18yrs of age (each) – $2,455
Visa Application – Dependent Applicant under 18yrs of age (each) – $1,230
How long does a 189 take to process?
As of 29 July 2025, Immigration advises the current processing times are as follows:
| Application Type | 50% processed within | 90% processed within |
| 189 Visa | 8 months | 8 months |
Why Choose AVIE for Immigration Services?
Personalized Guidance – Every migration journey is unique, and we provide tailored advice to match your circumstances and goals.
Expert Problem-Solving – Our team has extensive experience handling complex visa situations and finding tailored solutions to meet client needs.
Dedicated Support – We intentionally cap our agents’ caseloads to ensure you receive the time, care, and dedication you deserve. You’re never just a number with us.
Avoid Mistakes – Avoid costly delays and reapplications—our expertise ensures visa applications are done right the first time.
Stress-Free Process – We handle the complexities of visa applications, so you can focus on planning your new life in Australia.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who can apply for a Subclass 189 visa?
You must receive an invitation to apply after submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect. To be considered, you need to:
- Be under 45 years old at the time of invitation
- Meet the minimum amount of points on the points test (higher scores may be required depending on your EOI)
- Have a suitable skills assessment for an eligible skilled occupation
- Meet the English language, health, and character requirements
Can I include my family in my 189 visa application?
Yes. You can include your partner, dependent children, or stepchildren in your application. Family members must meet health and character requirements.
How long can I stay in Australia on a 189 visa?
The Subclass 189 visa is a permanent visa, which means you can stay in Australia indefinitely. The visa comes with a 5-year travel facility, allowing you to leave and re-enter Australia multiple times. After that, you’ll need to apply for a Resident Return Visa (RRV) or consider applying for Australian citizenship if you’re eligible.
What are the key benefits of a 189 visa?
With a Subclass 189 visa, you can:
- Live and work in Australia permanently
- Study at any Australian institution
- Access Medicare, Australia’s public healthcare system
- Sponsor eligible relatives for visas
- Travel in and out of Australia freely for 5 years
- Apply for Australian citizenship once you meet the requirements