Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)
A highly sought-after pathway for skilled professionals to migrate to Australia without requiring employer or state sponsorship. Live and work anywhere in Australia with a direct path to permanent residency.
Points Test Overview
Minimum 65 points required
What is Subclass 189?
A points-based skilled migration visa for professionals to gain Australian PR without sponsorship
The Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) is a highly sought-after pathway for skilled professionals to migrate to Australia without requiring employer or state sponsorship.
It allows you to live and work anywhere in Australia, offering a direct path to permanent residency. Your occupation must be on the MLTSSL (Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List) with a positive skills assessment and minimum 65 points.
Visa at a Glance
Key Benefits of Subclass 189
Why the Skilled Independent Visa is the top choice for skilled professionals
Direct PR Pathway
Permanent residency from day one — no provisional stage required.
No Sponsorship Needed
No employer or state/territory sponsorship required. Apply independently.
Live Anywhere in Australia
Freedom to live and work in any Australian state or territory.
Family Included
Include your spouse/partner and dependent children in your application.
Medicare & Benefits
Access to Australia's public healthcare system and social benefits.
Path to Citizenship
Apply for Australian citizenship after meeting residency requirements.
Basic Eligibility Criteria
Key requirements to qualify for the Subclass 189 visa
MLTSSL Occupation
Your occupation must be listed on the Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List.
Positive Skill Assessment
Obtain a positive assessment from the authorized assessing body for your occupation.
Minimum 65 Points
Score at least 65 points on the points test based on age, education, experience, and English.
English Proficiency
Demonstrate competent English through IELTS, PTE Academic, or TOEFL iBT.
Age Under 45
You must be under 45 years of age at the time of application.
Health & Character
Meet health requirements with medical examination and provide police clearance certificates.
Top Occupations for Subclass 189
In-demand occupations on the MLTSSL with their ANZSCO codes
| Occupation | Industry | ANZSCO Code |
|---|---|---|
Software Engineer | IT/Tech | 261313 |
Registered Nurse | Healthcare | 254412 |
Civil Engineer | Engineering | 233211 |
General Practitioner | Healthcare | 253111 |
Accountant | Finance | 221111 |
Secondary School Teacher | Education | 241411 |
Mechanical Engineer | Engineering | 233512 |
ICT Business Analyst | IT/Tech | 261111 |
Carpenter | Construction | 331212 |
Physiotherapist | Healthcare | 252511 |
This is a representative list. The MLTSSL is updated regularly by the Department of Home Affairs.
Application Process for Subclass 189
6-step journey from eligibility check to visa grant
Check Occupation Eligibility
Ensure your occupation is on the MLTSSL list with the correct ANZSCO code.
Skills Assessment
Obtain a positive assessment from the designated assessing authority for your occupation.
Points Calculation
Calculate your points based on age, education, experience, and English proficiency.
Submit EOI
Submit Expression of Interest through the SkillSelect portal.
Receive Invitation
Once your EOI is selected, receive an invitation to apply for the visa.
Visa Grant
Upon approval, enjoy permanent residency and work freely anywhere in Australia.
How Waymax Global Will Help
We simplify your Subclass 189 migration journey from start to finish
Personalized Visa Assessment
Comprehensive profile evaluation to determine your Subclass 189 eligibility and points score.
Skills Assessment Guidance
Step-by-step assistance with obtaining a positive skills assessment from the right authority.
EOI & Visa Application
Complete support with Expression of Interest submission and visa application preparation.
English Test Guidance
Expert advice on IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL — which test to take and how to achieve target scores.
Family Inclusion Support
Seamless inclusion of spouse/partner and dependent children in your PR application.
Post-Landing Support
Guidance from visa grant through settlement — Medicare, TFN, accommodation, and community integration.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common queries about Subclass 189
Start Your Subclass 189 Journey Today!
Your dream of permanent residency in Australia starts here!
📞 Contact Waymax Global for a free eligibility check! +91-98848-87556