Overview of Subclass 189 Visa (Skilled Independent)

The Subclass 189 Visa is a permanent residency visa for skilled workers who are not sponsored by a state, employer, or family member. It allows successful applicants to live and work anywhere in Australia and includes access to health care, education, and a pathway to citizenship.

Key Features:

  • No sponsorship required (independent visa).
  • Points-based system (minimum 65 points, higher scores increase chances).
  • Invitations issued based on EOI ranking and occupation ceilings.
  • Permanent residency with access to Medicare and education benefits.
  • Eligible for Australian citizenship after fulfilling residency requirements.

Process Flow and Timeline for Subclass 189 Visa

Step 1: Skills Assessment (2-3 Months)

  • Identify the ANZSCO occupation code matching your qualifications and work experience.
  • Apply for Skills Assessment with the relevant authority (e.g., ACS, Engineers Australia).
  • Submit all supporting documents (education credentials, work references, etc.).
  • Processing time: 8-12 weeks.

Step 2: English Language Test (IELTS/PTE) (2-4 Weeks)

  • Book and take the IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL test to demonstrate English proficiency.
  • Higher scores (e.g., Proficient or Superior English) result in more points.
  • Receive results within 1-2 weeks.

Step 3: Submit Expression of Interest (EOI) (Immediate)

  • Create and submit an EOI on the SkillSelect platform.
  • Include details of your skills, qualifications, English test scores, and work experience.
  • EOI remains valid for 2 years, and you can update it anytime.
  • Applicants with higher points are prioritized during invitation rounds.

Step 4: Wait for Invitation to Apply (1-12 Months)

  • Invitations are issued monthly based on:
    • Points score (minimum 65 points, but higher is better).
    • Occupation quotas and demand.
  • Waiting time can range from 1-12 months, depending on your points and occupation.

Step 5: Apply for Visa After Invitation (Within 60 Days)

  • Once invited, submit your visa application online via ImmiAccount within 60 days.
  • Provide necessary documents, including:
    • Passport and personal identification
    • Skills assessment report
    • English language test results
    • Work experience letters
    • Health and police clearance certificates

Step 6: Health and Police Clearance (4-8 Weeks)

  • Undergo a medical examination with an approved Australian panel physician.
  • Obtain police clearance certificates from countries where you’ve lived for 12+ months.
  • Processing time: 4-8 weeks.

Step 7: Visa Processing (6-9 Months)

  • The Department of Home Affairs assesses your application.
  • They may request additional documentation if required.
  • Processing time: Typically 6-9 months, but it can vary.

Step 8: Visa Grant and Travel (1-3 Months)

  • Upon approval, you will receive a visa grant notification.
  • The grant notice specifies the first entry date (usually within 6 months).
  • Plan your relocation or make a short entry to activate the visa.

Summary Timeline

  1. Skills Assessment: 2-3 months
  2. English Language Test: 2-4 weeks
  3. Submit EOI: Immediate
  4. Invitation to Apply: 1-12 months
  5. Apply for Visa: Within 60 days of receiving the invitation
  6. Health and Police Clearance: 4-8 weeks
  7. Visa Processing: 6-9 months
  8. First Entry or Relocation: 1-3 months after visa grant

Estimated Total Timeline

  • Best case: 9-12 months
  • Longest case: 18-24 months (if delays occur in EOI or processing)

This visa provides a flexible, independent pathway to Australian permanent residency, with benefits such as full work rights, access to Medicare, and eligibility for citizenship after meeting residency requirements.