– **Duration**:

The Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) is a permanent visa, allowing you to stay in Australia indefinitely. The visa includes a travel component that remains valid for 5 years from the date of visa grant.

– **Including Family**:

You can include family members in your application either when you lodge the visa application or add them later before the visa is decided. Family members must meet health and character requirements. If your partner or dependent children are not included in the application, provide a reason, such as Australian citizenship or permanent residency.

– **Stay in Australia Permanently**: This visa allows you to live in Australia indefinitely.

– **Work and Study**: Holders can work and study in Australia without any restrictions.

– **Medicare Enrollment**: Enroll in Australia’s public health care scheme, Medicare.

– **Sponsor Relatives**: You have the opportunity to sponsor your relatives to come to Australia.

– **Travel Flexibility**: You can travel to and from Australia for up to 5 years after the visa is granted.

– **Australian Citizenship**: If eligible, you can apply for Australian citizenship.

Please note that newly arrived residents may need to wait before accessing certain Australian Government payments and benefits.

– **Main Applicant**:

The visa costs AUD4,640.00 for the main applicant.

– **Additional Charges**:

There is also a charge for each family member included in the application. Additional charges may apply for family members aged 18 or older with less than functional English.

– **Second Instalment**:

Applicants may be required to pay a second instalment charge of AUD4,885 if requested.

– **Other Costs**:

Additional costs may apply for health checks, police certificates, and biometrics.

– **Apply From**:

You can apply for this visa while in or outside Australia, but not in immigration clearance. If applying in Australia, ensure you hold an appropriate visa (e.g., a Bridging visa).

– **Travel**:

The visa allows multiple entries into and exits from Australia for up to 5 years. After this period, a Resident Return Visa (RRV) is required for re-entry as a permanent resident.

– **Visa Label**:

Your visa will be digitally linked to your passport, so you won’t receive a label in your passport.

Processing times for this visa are as follows:

– 25% of applications: 4 Months

– 50% of applications: 4 Months

– 75% of applications: 5 Months

– 90% of applications: 6 Months

Processing times vary based on factors such as the completeness of the application, response time to requests for additional information, checks on supporting documents, and external agency communications, particularly for health, character, and national security requirements.

To be eligible for the Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189), you must meet the following criteria:

– **Invitation**: You can apply only if you receive an invitation. Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) to express your interest in the visa.

– **Skills Assessment**: You must have a suitable skills assessment at the time of invitation.

– **Age**: You must be under 45 years when invited, but you can still apply if you turn 45 after receiving the invitation.

– **Points**: You must score at least 65 points in the points test.

– **English Proficiency**: You must have at least competent English.

– **Occupation**: Your occupation must be on the relevant list of eligible skilled occupations for the Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) Point-Tested stream.

– **Visa History**: Your immigration history will be considered, and previous visa cancellations or refusals may affect eligibility.