Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)
Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) point tested permanent residence visa for skilled workers not sponsored by employers, relative, or state/territory which allows the applicants to live in Australia as long as they wish with full working rights. The success of the application entirely depends on the applicant’s capability of meeting the criteria to be eligible for this visa.
Like the other skilled migration visa subclasses, Visa 189 is open to applications made inside or outside of Australia. New Zealand citizens holding a Special Category Visa (subclass 444) may apply for Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) under (New Zealand) Streamif certain requirements are met.
When the application is submitted to the department while the applicant is in Australia holding a substantive visa, a bridging visa will be granted that will take effect once the current substantive visa expires to allow the holder to lawfully remain in Australia while waiting for the decision of the application lodged.
If holding a BVA when the applicant applied for a Subclass 189, he will be given a BVC. That means the applicant will not be able to travel outside Australia while the application is being processed.
Contact Us Free Visa Wizard Schedule a Consultation
Eligibility
To be eligible for the Skilled Independent Visa, the primary applicant must:
(1) be between the age of 18 and 44.
(2) have at least competent English.
(3) obtain 60 points the points – test.
(4) pass skills assessment for the nominated occupation listed on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL).
(5) submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) via SkillSelect.
(6) meet the health, public interest, character, and special return criteria.
Conditions
Once the applicant receives an invitation to apply, a valid visa application must be lodged within 60 days from the date the invitation was received. It is critical to have all the required documentation ready as soon as the applicant gets the invitation.
While the applicant can include dependent children and partners in the visa after lodgment of the application, any other dependent family members have to be included at the time of lodging. This includes e.g. parents who live with the applicant at the time of application and are financially dependent. Regardless of type or relationship, all additions must be made prior to the time of the visa decision.
This permanent residence status is for an indefinite period of time. However, a resident return visa (RRV) is required after 5 years.
Employer Nomination:
Not required.
This is an independent visa with eligibility determined by a skills assessment of an occupation on the MLTSSL.
State/Territory Government Nomination:
Not required.
Family/Relative Sponsorship:
Not required.
Permanent Migration Pathway:
This is a permanent residence (PR) visa.
Employment Prospects:
Obtaining the Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) (Points – tested) Stream is the best choice to maximise chances of obtaining a suitable job because there are no restrictions. Get in touch with Konnecting today and see if we are able to connect you with an employer in Australia looking for someone with your skill set.