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Skilled Independent – 189 visa

189 visa

The Subclass 189 visa Skilled Independent is a permanent residency visa designed for skilled workers who want to live and work in Australia without needing sponsorship from an employer, a state or territory, or a family member. It is available under two distinct streams.

The Points-Tested stream is for invited skilled workers with eligible occupations who meet the points test requirements.

The Hong Kong stream provides a direct pathway to permanent residency for eligible Hong Kong and British National (Overseas) passport holders.

189 Visa Point tested stream - Eligibility Requirements

  • Be under 45 years of age at the time of invitation

  • Have an occupation on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL)

  • Obtain a positive skills assessment for the nominated occupation

  • Meet the English language requirement (at least Competent English)

  • Score a minimum of 65 points on the points test (age, qualifications, work experience, English, etc.)

  • Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect

  • Receive an invitation to apply from the Department of Home Affairs

Hong Kong Stream

  • Be a Hong Kong citizen or hold a British National (Overseas) passport

  • Hold an eligible temporary visa (such as subclass 457, 482, or 485)

  • Have been usually resident in Australia for a certain period before applying

  • Continue to live, work, or study in Australia when applying

  • Meet the general health and character requirements

FAQs - frequently asked questions

You must score at least 65 points to be eligible under the Points-Tested stream. Higher scores increase your chance of receiving an invitation to apply, as only top-ranking candidates are selected.

The minimum level is Competent English. However, achieving Proficient or Superior English can boost your points score and make your application more competitive.

Applicants must submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect. If you meet the eligibility criteria and score highly enough, you may receive an invitation to apply. From there, you can lodge your visa application with supporting documents.

Yes. You can include eligible family members, such as your partner and dependent children, in your application. They will also be granted permanent residency if your visa is approved.

To apply under the Points-Tested stream, you must score at least 65 points on the migration points test. Points are awarded for:

  • Age – up to 30 points (25–32 years scores highest).

  • English language ability – 0 to 20 points (Competent, Proficient, or Superior English).

  • Skilled work experience – more points for longer experience, with higher weighting for work in Australia.

  • Qualifications – up to 20 points depending on your highest recognised qualification.

  • Additional factors – such as Australian study, regional study, NAATI language skills, partner skills, and professional year.

The more points you have, the higher your chance of receiving an invitation to apply through SkillSelect.

To be eligible, you must:

  • Hold a Hong Kong passport (HKSAR) or a British National (Overseas) passport.

  • Have held an eligible temporary visa—specifically subclass 457, 482, or 485—for at least four continuous years before applying.

  • Have been a usual resident in Australia for a continuous period of four years immediately before applying.

No. Unlike the Points-Tested stream, the Hong Kong stream does not require a skilled occupation, points test, or skills assessment.

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