Are you dreaming of starting a new life down under? Australia’s Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) might just be your ticket to making that dream a reality. This visa is designed for skilled workers who are not sponsored by an employer, a state, or territory government. In this guide, we’ll delve into the specifics of the Points-Tested Stream of the Subclass 189 visa, helping you understand the requirements and steps involved in securing this pathway to Australia.

Understanding the Points-Tested Stream

The Points-Tested Stream of the Subclass 189 visa is for individuals who have the skills and abilities needed to address Australia’s current skills shortages. To be eligible, you must first submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through the SkillSelect system and be invited to apply by the Australian government.

Basic Requirements

Before diving into the points system, it’s essential to ensure you meet the basic eligibility criteria for the Subclass 189 visa:

Hold the Following Visa

If you are in Australia, you must hold the following:

• – A substantive visa
• – Bridging Visa A – BVA (Subclass 010)
• – Bridging Visa B – BVB (Subclass 020)
• – Bridging Visa C – BVC (Subclass 030)

If you currently hold, or your last substantive visa (for at least 3 years the time you apply):

• – Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) (Subclass 491) or
• – Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) (Subclass 494)

Be Invited to Apply

You need to be invited first before you apply. You need to submit an expression of interest (EOI) through SkillSelect.

Suitable Skills Assessment

You need to declare that you have a suitable skills assessment at the time of invitation. You will need to provide a copy of this skills assessment with your application.

Must be this Age

Be under 45 when invited to apply for the visa. But if you turn 45 after being invited you can still apply.

Obtain Sufficient Score

Since this is a points-tested stream, you need to score 65 points or more.

Provide English Test

You would need to provide a competent English Test.

Meet Skills Requirement

Your occupation must be on list of eligible skilled occupations for this visa type.

Meet Health Requirement

If you and any family member are applying for this visa, you and they should meet the health requirement.

Meet Character Requirement

You and/or any family members 16 years old and over must meet the character requirement.

No Debt to Australian Government

You or any family members (including those not applying with you) must not owe the Australian Government money.

Sign Australian Values Statement

For applicants are 18 and older they must have read the Life in Australia booklet, respect the Australian way of life, and obey Australian laws when you sign or accept Australian Values Statement.

No Visa Cancelled or Previous Application Refused

They will consider your immigration history when they decide.

Now you know what Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) – Points-Tested Stream. You can now start your journey for this visa type.

Check Your Eligibility
Use Our Skill Points Test
Book a Consultation with a Registered Migration Agent