1. What is the Australia Skilled Independent Visa 189?

The Australia Skilled Independent Visa 189 is a visa category designed for skilled workers who are not sponsored by an employer, a state, territory, or a family member. This visa allows individuals to live and work in Australia as a permanent resident. In order to be eligible for the visa, applicants must first submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through the online SkillSelect system and be invited to apply by the Department of Home Affairs. Key requirements for the Visa 189 include having a nominated occupation on the relevant skilled occupation list, meeting the points test pass mark of 65 points, being under 45 years of age, demonstrating proficiency in the English language, and meeting health and character requirements. Once granted, the Skilled Independent Visa 189 provides holders with the ability to stay in Australia indefinitely, work and study in Australia, enroll in Medicare, sponsor eligible family members for permanent residence, and apply for Australian citizenship if eligible.

2. What are the eligibility criteria for the Visa 189?

The eligibility criteria for the Australia Skilled Independent Visa 189 are as follows:

1. Occupation: As an applicant, you must nominate an occupation that is on the relevant skilled occupation list for this visa subclass.

2. Skills Assessment: You must have a suitable skills assessment for the occupation you nominate.

3. Age: You must be under 45 years of age at the time of invitation to apply for the visa.

4. English Language Proficiency: You must demonstrate competent English language skills by providing relevant test scores such as IELTS, PTE, TOEFL, or CAE.

5. Expression of Interest (EOI): You must submit an Expression of Interest and receive an invitation to apply from the Department of Home Affairs.

6. Points Test: You must score at least 65 points on the points test which takes into account factors such as age, English proficiency, work experience, qualifications, and other relevant criteria.

7. Health and Character Requirements: You and any accompanying family members must meet the health and character requirements set by the Australian government.

8. Meet the Visa Conditions: You must meet all the visa conditions, including signing the Australian Values Statement and committing to residing in Australia for at least two years from the date the visa is granted.

Overall, meeting these eligibility criteria is crucial to be considered for the Australia Skilled Independent Visa 189 and ultimately reside and work in Australia as a skilled immigrant.

3. How do I apply for the Skilled Independent Visa 189?

To apply for the Skilled Independent Visa 189, you must first submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through the SkillSelect online system. This is a points-based system where you will be assessed based on factors such as age, English language proficiency, work experience, and education.

1. After submitting your EOI, you may receive an invitation to apply for the 189 visa if you meet the minimum points threshold set by the Australian government.
2. Once you receive an invitation, you will need to lodge a formal visa application within a specified timeframe.
3. Your application must include supporting documents such as identity documents, proof of English language proficiency, educational qualifications, and evidence of work experience.
4. You will also need to undergo a medical examination and obtain a police clearance certificate to demonstrate your good character.
5. After submitting your application, you may be asked to provide additional information or attend an interview with immigration officials.
6. If your application is successful, you will receive a visa grant letter that will outline the conditions of your visa and your rights and responsibilities as a visa holder.

It is important to ensure that you meet all the eligibility criteria and provide accurate and complete information in your application to increase your chances of a successful outcome.

4. What is the points requirement for a Visa 189 application?

The points requirement for a Visa 189 application is a minimum of 65 points. Points are awarded based on various criteria such as age, English language proficiency, work experience, education qualifications, and other factors. To be eligible for a Skilled Independent Visa 189, applicants need to achieve the minimum points score to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through the SkillSelect system. The points system is designed to assess the applicant’s ability to contribute to the Australian economy and society. It is important to calculate and ensure that you meet the minimum points requirement before applying for a Visa 189 to increase your chances of a successful application.

5. What are the benefits of the Skilled Independent Visa 189?

The Skilled Independent Visa 189 offers several benefits for skilled workers looking to migrate to Australia:
1. Permanent Residency: The Visa 189 grants permanent residency in Australia, allowing the holder and their family to live and work in the country indefinitely.
2. Work and Study: Visa 189 holders have the freedom to work and study in Australia in any field of their choice.
3. Healthcare and Social Benefits: Visa 189 holders are eligible for healthcare through Australia’s Medicare system and can access various social benefits available to permanent residents.
4. Sponsorship not required: Unlike other visa categories, the Skilled Independent Visa 189 does not require sponsorship from an employer or family member, providing more flexibility and independence to the visa holder.
5. Pathway to Citizenship: Holding a Skilled Independent Visa 189 is a significant step towards becoming an Australian citizen, as it is a pathway to citizenship after meeting the residency and other eligibility requirements.

6. Can I include family members in my Visa 189 application?

Yes, you can include certain family members in your Australia Skilled Independent Visa 189 application. This visa allows you to include your partner/spouse, dependent children, and other dependent relatives, such as parents, in your application. Here are some important points to note:

1. Partner/Spouse: You can include your partner/spouse in your visa application if they meet the eligibility criteria. This includes being in a genuine and continuing relationship with you.

2. Dependent Children: You can include your dependent children in your visa application as long as they meet the definition of a dependent child according to Australian immigration law.

3. Other Dependent Relatives: In certain circumstances, you may be able to include other dependent relatives, such as parents, in your visa application. However, this is subject to meeting specific criteria outlined by the Department of Home Affairs.

It’s important to carefully consider which family members you want to include in your application, as each additional family member may affect the overall visa processing time and requirements. It’s also recommended to seek professional advice or guidance from a registered migration agent to ensure that your visa application is comprehensive and accurately represents your family composition.

7. How long does it take to process a Skilled Independent Visa 189 application?

The processing time for a Skilled Independent Visa 189 application can vary depending on various factors. On average, it typically takes anywhere from 8 to 11 months for the Department of Home Affairs to process a Visa 189 application. However, the processing time can be affected by factors such as the completeness of your application, the number of applications received by the department, any additional information or documentation requested, and changes in government policy. To ensure a faster processing time, it is important to submit a complete and accurate application with all the required documents and meet all the eligibility criteria for the visa category. Additionally, staying up to date with any communication from the Department of Home Affairs and promptly responding to any requests for further information can help expedite the processing of your visa application.

8. What is the validity period of the Visa 189 once granted?

The Skilled Independent Visa 189 for Australia is typically granted with a validity period of 5 years from the date of visa grant. This visa allows skilled workers who are not sponsored by an employer or family member or nominated by a state or territory government to live and work in Australia permanently. Once granted, visa holders can stay in Australia indefinitely, travel to and from the country multiple times, study and work in Australia, and enroll in Australia’s public healthcare scheme, Medicare. After the initial 5-year period, visa holders can apply for Australian citizenship provided they meet the eligibility criteria.

9. Are there any occupation restrictions for the Visa 189?

Yes, there are occupation restrictions for the Australia Skilled Independent Visa 189. The visa requires applicants to nominate an occupation that is on the relevant skilled occupations list. This list is provided by the Australian government and includes occupations that are in high demand in Australia. In order to be eligible for the Visa 189, applicants must have skills and experience in a nominated occupation that is on the list. Additionally, applicants must also meet the minimum skill and qualification requirements for the nominated occupation. It is important for applicants to carefully review the skilled occupations list to ensure their occupation is eligible for the Visa 189 before applying.

10. What is the difference between Visa 189 and other skilled migration visas?

The Australia Skilled Independent Visa 189 is a popular option for skilled workers who wish to migrate to Australia without needing sponsorship from an employer or family member. Here are some key differences between the Visa 189 and other skilled migration visas:

1. Visa 189 is a points-tested visa, meaning applicants must meet a points threshold based on factors such as age, English language proficiency, work experience, and qualifications. Other skilled migration visas may have different eligibility criteria or may require sponsorship from a state or territory government.

2. Visa 189 provides permanent residency in Australia, allowing holders to live and work in the country indefinitely. Some other skilled migration visas may offer temporary residency initially, with the possibility of applying for permanent residency later on.

3. Visa 189 allows applicants to live and work in any part of Australia, providing more flexibility compared to regional or state-specific visas that may have restrictions on where the visa holder can reside.

Overall, the Visa 189 is a popular choice for skilled workers who meet the eligibility criteria and wish to secure permanent residency in Australia without the need for employer or family sponsorship.

11. Can I apply for permanent residency through the Skilled Independent Visa 189?

Yes, you can apply for permanent residency through the Skilled Independent Visa 189. This visa is designed for skilled workers who are not sponsored by an employer, state, territory, or family member. To be eligible for the visa, you must first submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through the Department of Home Affairs SkillSelect system and be invited to apply. In order to qualify for the visa, you must meet the relevant points test, be under the age of 45, have a suitable skills assessment in an occupation on the skilled occupation list, and demonstrate competent English language proficiency. Upon meeting all the requirements and receiving a visa grant, you can live and work in Australia indefinitely as a permanent resident.

12. Do I need to have a job offer to apply for the Visa 189?

No, you do not need to have a job offer to apply for a Australia Skilled Independent Visa 189. This visa is designed for skilled workers who are not sponsored by an employer or family member and want to live and work in Australia as permanent residents. To be eligible for this visa, you need to meet the basic requirements including having a nominated occupation on the relevant skilled occupation list and meeting the points test criteria. Having a job offer is not a requirement for this visa category, as it is aimed at individuals who have the skills and experience that are in demand in the Australian labor market. However, having a job offer can potentially enhance your points score in the points test which may improve your chances of being invited to apply for the visa.

13. Can I study in Australia on a Skilled Independent Visa 189?

Yes, you can study in Australia on a Skilled Independent Visa 189. Here are some key points to consider:

1. Full-Time Study: As a holder of a Skilled Independent Visa 189, you are permitted to study full-time in Australia. This means you can enroll in a wide range of courses, from language programs to vocational training to higher education degrees.

2. Self-Funding: It’s important to note that as a visa holder under the Skilled Independent Visa 189 category, you are expected to be self-sufficient and cover all your study-related expenses, including tuition fees, living costs, and any other associated costs.

3. Visa Conditions: While studying on a Skilled Independent Visa 189, you must also adhere to all the visa conditions set by the Department of Home Affairs. These conditions may include maintaining enrollment in a registered course and complying with the visa’s validity period.

4. Work Limitations: It’s important to be aware that while studying on a Skilled Independent Visa 189, there are limitations on the number of hours you can work. Typically, visa holders are allowed to work a maximum of 40 hours per fortnight during the academic year and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks.

Overall, studying in Australia on a Skilled Independent Visa 189 can be a rewarding experience, providing you with the opportunity to enhance your skills and qualifications while enjoying the diverse cultural and educational offerings in the country.

14. What are the English language requirements for the Visa 189?

The English language requirements for the Australia Skilled Independent Visa 189 are crucial for applicants to meet. To demonstrate proficiency, applicants generally need to undertake an English language test and achieve a minimum score. The accepted language tests are the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), the Occupational English Test (OET), the Test of English as a Foreign Language internet-based test (TOEFL iBT), and the Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic. The required test score may vary depending on the individual’s occupation and circumstances. Additionally, exemptions from the English language requirement may be granted to applicants who hold a passport from the UK, Ireland, Canada, the USA, or New Zealand, or have completed at least five years of full-time study in a secondary or higher education institution where the medium of instruction was in English. It’s essential for visa applicants to carefully review and meet the specific English language requirements for the Visa 189 to ensure a successful application.

15. How can I increase my points score for a Visa 189 application?

To increase your points score for a Australia Skilled Independent Visa 189 application, you can consider the following strategies:

1. Improve your English proficiency: Obtaining a higher score in an English language test such as IELTS can significantly boost your overall points.

2. Gain more work experience: Accumulating more years of work experience in your nominated occupation can earn you additional points.

3. Obtain a higher qualification: Completing a higher level of education or obtaining additional qualifications related to your field can increase your points score.

4. Secure a job offer: If you receive a job offer from an eligible Australian employer, you can potentially earn more points towards your visa application.

5. Apply for state nomination: Some states in Australia offer nomination programs that can provide extra points for visa applicants.

6. Seek professional advice: Consulting with a qualified migration agent or visa consultant can help you understand the eligibility requirements and identify potential ways to increase your points score.

By strategically addressing these areas, you can maximize your points score and enhance your chances of successfully applying for an Australia Skilled Independent Visa 189.

16. Can I apply for a Visa 189 if my occupation is not on the skilled occupation list?

No, you cannot apply for a Visa 189 if your occupation is not on the skilled occupation list. The Skilled Independent Visa 189 is specifically for skilled workers who have occupations listed on the Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) or the Short-Term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL) published by the Australian government. These lists are regularly updated to reflect the current needs of the Australian labor market and to ensure that individuals applying for the visa possess skills that are in demand in Australia. If your occupation is not on the skilled occupation list, you may explore other visa options that cater to your circumstances and qualifications.

17. Is there an age limit for applicants of the Skilled Independent Visa 189?

Yes, there is no upper age limit for applicants of the Skilled Independent Visa 189. However, applicants must be under the age of 45 at the time of invitation to apply. This age requirement aims to ensure that skilled migrants are of an age where they can effectively contribute to the Australian workforce for a substantial period after being granted the visa. It is important for applicants to be aware of this age requirement and plan their visa application accordingly to maximize their chances of success in obtaining the Skilled Independent Visa 189.

18. What are the financial requirements for the Visa 189?

The Australia Skilled Independent Visa 189 does not have specific financial requirements in terms of showing a certain amount of funds or minimum income level. However, there are certain costs associated with applying for and obtaining the visa that applicants should consider:

1. Visa Application Fee: The primary cost associated with applying for the Visa 189 is the visa application fee, which can vary depending on individual circumstances and any additional family members included in the application.

2. Skill Assessment Costs: Before applying for the Visa 189, applicants are usually required to undergo a skills assessment to demonstrate their qualifications for their nominated occupation. There are costs associated with this process that applicants should budget for.

3. Medical Examination and Police Clearance: As part of the visa application process, applicants are required to undergo a medical examination and obtain a police clearance certificate. These may incur additional costs.

4. Migration Agent Fees: While not mandatory, many applicants choose to use the services of a migration agent to assist with their visa application. This can be an additional cost to consider.

Overall, while there are no specific financial requirements in terms of savings or income for the Visa 189, applicants should budget for the various costs associated with the application process to ensure a smooth and successful visa application.

19. Are there any health or character requirements for the Visa 189?

Yes, there are health and character requirements that applicants must meet in order to be eligible for the Australia Skilled Independent Visa 189.

1. Health Requirement: Applicants are required to undergo a medical examination to show that they are in good health and do not pose a risk to public health in Australia. This includes screening for contagious diseases such as tuberculosis. If the medical examination reveals any health issues that could have significant healthcare costs or put a strain on Australia’s healthcare system, the visa application may be denied.

2. Character Requirement: Applicants are also required to meet certain character requirements to ensure they are of good character and do not pose a risk to the Australian community. This involves providing police clearance certificates from countries where the applicant has lived for a certain period of time. Any criminal convictions or past immigration violations may impact the outcome of the visa application.

Overall, meeting both the health and character requirements is essential for a successful application for the Australia Skilled Independent Visa 189. It is important for applicants to thoroughly review and comply with these requirements to increase their chances of obtaining the visa.

20. Can I apply for Australian citizenship after holding a Skilled Independent Visa 189?

Yes, after holding a Skilled Independent Visa 189 and meeting the eligibility criteria, you may be able to apply for Australian citizenship. To be eligible for citizenship, applicants must have lived in Australia as a permanent resident for at least four years, including one year as a permanent resident immediately before applying. Additionally, you must meet certain residency requirements, such as being physically present in Australia for at least 9 out of the 12 months before applying and 4 out of 12 months before the citizenship application is decided. Meeting English language requirements and passing a citizenship test are also mandatory steps in the process. Once you have met all the criteria, you can submit an application for Australian citizenship and await a decision from the Department of Home Affairs.