What is a Skilled Independent Visa?
The Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189) is a point-based visa for skilled workers who are not sponsored by an employer, state or territory, or family member. With this visa, the applicant can work permanently anywhere in Australia and stay in the country as long as they desire with full working rights. To be eligible for this visa, the applicant’s occupation must be listed on the skilled occupation list and they must score at least 65 points on the point-based system.
To apply for the 189 visa, the applicant must submit an expression of interest through SkillSelect. This can be done both inside or outside of Australia. Once the expression of interest is submitted, the applicant will be notified if they have been invited to apply for the visa. To prepare for the application, the applicant must ensure that they have adequate evidence to support the claims of experience in the occupation listed on the visa application and can use the 189 visa point calculator to determine their estimated points. It’s important to note that the invitation to apply is not a guarantee of the visa grant.