Step-by-Step Application Guide for Skilled Independent Visa in Australia
Looking for a visa that rewards your skills and independence? The Skilled Independent Visa Subclass 189 lets you build your future in Australia without sponsorship. This points-based visa is designed for highly skilled individuals whose occupations are in demand in Australia. It offers the freedom to live, work, and study anywhere in the country, and even includes eligible family members in your application. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process, benefits, eligibility requirements, points system, and tips to increase your chances of success.
Unlock Your Future with the Skilled Independent Visa Subclass 189
The Subclass 189 visa isn’t just a pathway to permanent residency—it’s your ticket to freedom, opportunity, and growth in Australia. Designed for skilled professionals, this visa allows you to build a life in one of the world’s most vibrant and dynamic countries, while enjoying a wide range of privileges that make living and working in Australia truly rewarding.
Key Benefits of the Subclass 189 Visa
• Stay in Australia permanently and enjoy the stability of long-term residency
• Work and study freely anywhere in the country, without restrictions
• Access free English classes through the Adult Migrant English Program (if eligible), helping you settle in with confidence
• Enrol in Medicare, Australia’s world-class public health care scheme
• Sponsor eligible relatives to join you in Australia and share the opportunities
• Travel to and from Australia for 5 years, giving you flexibility for work, study, or family visits overseas
• Apply for Australian citizenship (if eligible) and enjoy the full rights and privileges of being an Australian citizen
With the Subclass 189 visa, you’re not just relocating—you’re stepping into a future filled with possibilities, security, and a high quality of life for you and your family.
Key Eligibility Criteria for the Skilled Independent Visa
Before applying for the Skilled Independent Visa Subclass 189, it’s essential to understand that this is a points-tested visa designed for skilled professionals. To be considered, you must meet a set of core eligibility requirements that demonstrate your skills, occupation, and suitability for permanent residency in Australia. You must:
• Have an occupation listed on Australia’s relevant Skilled Occupation List.
• Obtain a suitable skills assessment for your nominated occupation.
• Receive an invitation to apply for the visa through SkillSelect.
• Meet the points test requirement, with points awarded for factors such as age, work experience, education, and English proficiency.
These requirements are designed to ensure that only the most qualified and genuinely skilled candidates are granted this visa. By meeting them, you set yourself on the path to securing Australian permanent residency and building a prosperous future. Get a free assessment for subclass 189 with Immivisa Australia.
Where Can You Apply From
One of the significant advantages of the Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) is its flexibility—you can lodge your application whether you are inside or outside Australia. However, you cannot apply while you are in immigration clearance.
Suppose you choose to apply from within Australia. In that case, you must already hold a valid visa such as a substantive visa, or a Bridging Visa A (Subclass 010), Bridging Visa B (Subclass 020), or Bridging Visa C (Subclass 030). Without one of these, your application cannot be processed.
This flexibility makes the Subclass 189 visa accessible to skilled workers both overseas and already in Australia, giving you more freedom to plan your migration journey.
Cost Breakdown
Applying for the Subclass 189 visa is an investment in your future in Australia. While the visa opens the door to permanent residency and countless opportunities, it’s essential to understand the costs involved so you can plan with confidence.
Visa Application Charges
• The base application fee for the principal applicant is AUD 4,910.
• There is an additional charge for each family member who applies with you.
You can use the Visa Pricing Estimator provided by the Department of Home Affairs to get an idea of the total cost.
Second Instalment Charges
• If a family member aged 18 or older has less than functional English, an additional fee—known as the second instalment—may apply.
• This fee is AUD 4,885 per applicant and is only payable if requested, and only if the visa is about to be granted.
Other Potential Costs
Besides visa application fees, you may also need to cover extra expenses such as:
• Health checks (to meet health requirements)
• Police certificates (to demonstrate good character)
• Biometrics (fingerprints and photo identification)
• These costs are separate from the visa fee, and the Visa Pricing Estimator does not include them.
By budgeting for both the visa fee and any additional charges, you’ll be better prepared for a smooth application process and avoid surprises along the way.
Processing Times for the Subclass 189 Visa
When applying for the Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189), one of the most common questions is: “How long will it take?” While every applicant hopes for a quick outcome, the reality is that processing times can vary. To get an indication of current timelines, you can use the Visa Processing Time Guide Tool provided by the Department of Home Affairs. This tool reflects recently decided applications but serves only as a guide—not a guarantee—for your own case.
What Affects Processing Times
Applications are assessed individually, and several factors can influence how long the process takes, including:
• Completeness of your application – lodging all required forms and documents upfront can help avoid delays
• Response time – how quickly you provide additional information when requested by the Department
• Verification checks – the time taken to confirm the accuracy of your supporting documents
• External clearances – obtaining information from other agencies, particularly for health, character, or national security requirements
• Migration program caps – for permanent migration visas, processing may also depend on the number of places available in Australia’s annual migration program.
Because every case is unique, it’s essential to apply as early as possible and ensure your application is well-prepared and complete. Doing so gives you the best chance of a smoother and faster decision.
The Bottom Line on the Skilled Independent Visa
The Skilled Independent Visa Subclass 189 is more than just a migration pathway—it’s a chance to shape your future on your own terms. From gaining the freedom to live and work permanently in Australia to enjoying the security of a system built for skilled professionals, this visa empowers you to create a stable and rewarding life.
While the process involves careful steps and requirements, the outcome can be truly life-changing. ImmiVisa is a great way to get multiple ways, which is very helpful. At ImmiVisa, we’re here to guide you every step of the way, helping you with the visa application with confidence and clarity.
