Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189)

What is it?

The 189 is the most coveted skilled migration visa in Australia: full permanent residence with no employer or state nomination required. You apply directly to the federal government on points, and once granted you can live, work and study anywhere in Australia indefinitely. After 4 years on the visa you become eligible for citizenship. Your occupation must be on the MLTSSL (medium- and long-term strategic skills list) and you'll compete in monthly EOI invitation rounds.

Key benefits

• Full permanent residence from day one — no path-to-PR uncertainty
• No employer sponsorship, no state nomination required
• Bring your spouse and dependent children as PRs
• Eligible for Medicare and most government benefits immediately
• Path to citizenship after 4 years of residence

Key requirements

Minimum points

65

Maximum age

45 years

Minimum English

competent

Occupation list

MLTSSL

Who qualifies? Skilled professionals under 45 with at least competent English, a positive skills assessment, an MLTSSL occupation, and 65+ points (the real cutoff is usually higher in competitive occupations).