Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189)

Live and work permanently anywhere in Australia

The Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) is a permanent residence visa for highly skilled workers, eligible New Zealand citizens, and Hong Kong or British National (Overseas) passport holders who have demonstrated their value and contribution to Australia.

This points-tested visa allows successful applicants to live, work, and study anywhere in Australia, without requiring employer or family sponsorship.

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Basic Eligibility

Depending on your stream, you must:

• Receive an invitation to apply (Points Tested stream)
• Be under 45 years of age at time of invitation (Points Tested stream)
• Meet the skills and occupation requirements
• Have competent English
• Meet health and character requirements
• Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect

Important: The New Zealand stream permanently closed to new applications on 1 July 2023.

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Visa Streams

Points Tested Stream – Now Open

This stream is for skilled workers who are invited to apply based on Australia’s current skill needs and their points test score.

Key Requirements:

• No employer or family sponsor needed

• Must lodge an EOI and be invited to apply

• Be under 45 years of age

• Meet points test criteria (minimum of 65 points)

Stay: Permanent
Cost: From AUD 4,765

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New Zealand Stream – Permanently Closed

This stream was for eligible New Zealand citizens who had made a continued economic and social contribution to Australia.
📌 Closed on 1 July 2023

Stay: Permanent
Cost: N/A

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Hong Kong Stream – Now Open

For eligible Hong Kong and British National (Overseas) passport holders who have lived in Australia and contributed to the community.

Key Requirements:

• Must hold a Hong Kong or BN(O) passport

• Meet residency and visa requirements

• Show commitment to living in Australia long term

Stay: Permanent
Cost: From AUD 4,765

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What You Can Do with the 189 Visa

With the Subclass 189 visa, you can:

• Live and work anywhere in Australia permanently
• Include eligible family members in your application
• Enrol in Medicare, Australia’s public healthcare system
• Access education and social services
• Apply for Australian citizenship (if eligible)
• Sponsor relatives for permanent residence
• Travel freely for 5 years from the date of visa grant