Subclass 189 — Skilled Independent
The points-tested pathway for skilled applicants who do not need state nomination, employer sponsorship or a family sponsor.
Permanent residence
Permanent Guide to the current pathway, not an eligibility determination.
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Who should consider this visa?
Consider this route if your occupation is eligible, an assessing authority can verify your skills, and your evidence supports competitive SkillSelect points. It is independent of a nominating state, but still invitation-based.
Core idea
The points-tested pathway for skilled applicants who do not need state nomination, employer sponsorship or a family sponsor.
Core eligibility and evidence
Start with these themes, then verify the relevant visa stream and current government criteria before any application.
Be invited to apply after submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI) for the points-tested stream.
Nominate an occupation on the applicable skilled occupation list and obtain a suitable skills assessment.
Meet the age, English, points-test, health and character requirements for the relevant stream.
Provide documents proving the points claimed at invitation and application; reaching 65 points does not guarantee an invitation.
A practical application sequence
Sequence matters. Each stage depends on the evidence collected at the one before it.
Check the occupation
Confirm the occupation, list and correct skills assessing authority before paying for tests or assessments.
Prepare evidence
Collect qualifications, employment records, identity documents and approved English results.
Create a SkillSelect EOI
Enter only verifiable points claims and keep details accurate while waiting.
Apply if invited
Respond within the invitation window and substantiate every claimed point.
What applicants often overlook
Do not confuse the 65-point minimum eligibility threshold with the competitive score needed for an invitation.
A job offer is not a substitute for the required skills assessment or invitation.
Age is generally assessed when invited in the points-tested stream; do not rely on an old EOI if your circumstances change.
The subclass 189 visa also has other streams. This guide focuses specifically on the points-tested stream, because its SkillSelect process is distinct from those other pathways.
Frequently asked questions
Answers use official program sources. Individual facts can change the outcome.
Can I apply without a state sponsor?
Yes. The points-tested Skilled Independent stream does not require state or family sponsorship, but you must still receive an invitation.
Does 65 points guarantee selection?
No. It is the general minimum threshold; invitation outcomes depend on program settings and the applicant pool.
Can a subclass 189 holder live anywhere in Australia?
The visa grants permanent residence with the ability to live and work anywhere in Australia, subject to ordinary laws and any relevant visa conditions.
Verify with Home Affairs
Read the official visa pages before relying on a threshold, stream, deadline, occupation list or eligibility claim.