The Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) is a points-tested visa designed for invited skilled workers and New Zealand citizens whose occupations are in demand in Australia. This visa grants permanent residency and allows holders to live and work anywhere in Australia without employer sponsorship or state nomination.
Check Also: Australia TSS (Subclass 482) Work Visa – Check Here
For the most up-to-date information, visit the Australian Department of Home Affairs.
Eligibility Criteria:
To apply for the Subclass 189 visa, applicants must meet the following criteria:
1. Age
- Must be aged between 18 and 44 years at the time of invitation.
2. English Language Proficiency
- Competent English is required, usually demonstrated by achieving a minimum IELTS score of 6 in each band (or equivalent test scores in PTE, TOEFL, etc.).
3. Skilled Occupation
- The nominated occupation must be on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL).
- Applicants must obtain a positive skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority for their occupation. Check the list here.
4. Points Test Requirement
- Applicants must achieve a minimum of 65 points based on factors such as:
- Age
- English proficiency
- Skilled work experience
- Educational qualifications
- Australian study/work experience
- Partner skills (if applicable)
- A higher score improves the chances of receiving an invitation due to competition.
5. Health & Character Requirements
- Applicants and their dependents must undergo medical examinations and provide police clearance certificates.
Application Process of Score 65 Points for Australian Work Visa 2025:
1. Obtain a Skills Assessment
- Contact the relevant skills assessment authority for your nominated occupation.
- Provide education, work experience, and qualification documents for assessment.
2. Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) via SkillSelect
- Create an EOI on SkillSelect.
- Enter details of your skills, experience, and qualifications.
- Your EOI will be ranked against other applicants.
3. Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA)
- Invitations are issued to applicants with the highest ranking during invitation rounds.
- Some occupations require more than 65 points due to high demand.
4. Lodge Your Visa Application
- After receiving an invitation, apply within 60 days.
- Submit all required documents, including identity, skills assessment, and health/character certificates.
Benefits:
- Permanent Residency:
Live and work anywhere in Australia indefinitely. - Medicare Access:
Eligibility for Australia’s public healthcare system. - Pathway to Citizenship:
Meet residency requirements to apply for Australian citizenship. - Include Family Members:
Spouse and dependent children can be included in the application. - No Employer or State Sponsorship Required:
Greater flexibility in job opportunities.
How to Improve Your Points Score:
If your score is below the competitive range, consider the following:
- Improve English proficiency (achieve IELTS 7 or higher for extra points).
- Gain additional work experience (especially in Australia).
- Complete further qualifications related to your occupation.
- State Nomination (Subclass 190): Some states offer additional 5 points.
- Regional Nomination (Subclass 491): Provides an extra 15 points.
Alternative Pathways:
If you do not qualify for the Subclass 189 visa, consider:
- Subclass 190 (Skilled Nominated Visa): Requires state nomination, granting 5 extra points.
- Subclass 491 (Skilled Work Regional Visa): Requires regional nomination, granting 15 extra points but with a pathway to PR.
- TSS 482 (Temporary Skill Shortage Visa): Employer-sponsored work visa for in-demand occupations.
Final Thoughts:
The Subclass 189 visa is an excellent option for skilled workers seeking permanent residency in Australia. However, due to its competitive nature, a high points score significantly increases the chance of receiving an invitation.
For up-to-date information, visit the Department of Home Affairs and consult a registered migration agent if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Is 65 points enough to receive an invitation?
65 points is the minimum requirement, but not all applicants at this level receive invitations. Occupations in high demand often require 80+ points.
Check SkillSelect invitation rounds for recent cut-off scores.How can I check my eligibility?
Use the official points calculator to estimate your score.
How often are invitations issued?
Invitation rounds are typically conducted monthly but may vary. Check the latest invitation round results on the Department of Home Affairs website.
