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Applying for skilled migration can feel overwhelming, especially when you are trying to understand every step clearly. That is where knowing the subclass 189 visa requirements upfront becomes incredibly useful. This visa is one of Australia’s most popular pathways to permanent residency for talented professionals who want to build their careers without needing a job offer or state nomination.
In this guide, you will find an easy, detailed breakdown of eligibility criteria, documents, skill checks, and points, everything you need to prepare a strong application with confidence.
The Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) is a points-tested permanent resident visa that is awarded to highly skilled workers who have been invited to apply via SkillSelect. This option is also independent, unlike the other competent visa options. One does not require any employer sponsorship, state or territory governmental sponsorship, or sponsorship by family members.
In case your skills are aligned to an occupation that Australia urgently requires, the 189 visa provides a simple way to live, study, and work anywhere in the country with full PR benefits. It also gives you entry to Medicare and will enable you to sponsor deserving family members in the future.
Also Read: Important Things to Know Before Applying for the 189 Australia Visa
Below are the essential Subclass 189 visa requirements every applicant must satisfy before applying.
It starts by applying an Expression of Interest (EOI) via the Australia SkillSelect system. Before you can apply, you have to wait until you are invited. Invitations are made based on:
You have to be below 45 years at the time of invitation. You still have a chance of applying even when you are 45 years old, once you get your invitation. But, in case you are turning 45 prior to the invitation, then you will not be entitled.
The job title should ensure that it is included in the Skilled Occupation List (SOL) associated with Subclass 189. This assures Australia that it actually requires employees in its line. Each profession is associated with a certain assessing body to prove skills.
A valid skills assessment from the authorised assessing body is mandatory. It ensures that your qualifications and experience meet Australian standards. The assessment must be positive and valid at the time of invitation.
You should show appropriate proficiency in the English language by passing the approved tests like IELTS, PTE Academic, OET, TOEFL iBT, or the Cambridge C1. Most applicants aim for at least Competent English, though higher scores help you earn more points.
The threshold of the minimum number of points is 65 points, although competitive jobs may demand more. The factors include age, English abilities, education, work experience, partners’ skills, and Australian study.
Australia demands that the candidates have high character standards. You may be asked to provide:
Depending on your nationality and medical history, you and your family members have to go through health checks, including chest X-rays, medical checkups and tests. These are to be done by panel physicians who will be approved by the Australian Government.
You have to clear all existing public debt, or you have to formalise modes of repayment of the debt. This will otherwise affect your visa approval.
Applicants who are above 18 years must sign a declaration confirming they respect Australian laws, values, and societal principles.
Must Read: 189 Visa Processing Time for Australia
Organising your paperwork early makes the application smoother. Here’s a clear checklist aligned with the Subclass 189 visa requirements.
You need to submit official test results. Ensure they are valid and meet the minimum score requirements.
If you include a spouse or child, prepare:
Also Read: 7 Most Common Mistakes Which Can Lead To Rejection Of Your Visa 189 And Visa 190
The distribution of points is a very important aspect of fulfilling the Subclass 189 visa requirements. The points test assesses your age, fluency in the English language, work experience, qualifications, and a number of other considerations. According to the official General Skilled Migration points test released by the Australian Skilled Migration, the points system works in the following way.
One of the best contributors to your total score is age. You will get points according to your age when you are invited:
| Age | Points |
| 18–24 years | 25 |
| 25–32 years | 30 |
| 33–39 years | 25 |
| 40–44 years | 15 |
Depending on your approved English test score, you get the following points:
Points are awarded separately for employment inside and outside Australia during the past 10 years. You can claim points from both categories, up to the maximum allowed.
Your highest recognised qualification determines your points:
Extra points are available if you have completed a study within Australia:
You may be able to add extra points depending on their skills and English ability if you are applying with a spouse or de facto partner:
Understanding the full list of subclass 189 visa requirements is the first step toward preparing a strong and accurate application. This visa offers a life-changing pathway to permanent residency. However, precision matters, whether it is your skills assessment or points calculation.
Working with a registered migration agent in Adelaide can give you clarity and help you lodge your application with confidence if you want professional support.
You must score at least 65 points, but higher scores improve your chances of receiving an invitation.
No, this is an independent visa, so no sponsorship or employment offer is required.
Yes, it grants full permanent residency with unrestricted work and study rights.
Yes, you may be inside or outside Australia when lodging the EOI or visa application.
Validity varies by assessing authority, but most remain valid for 3 years unless stated otherwise.
Yes, you can include a spouse, de facto partner, and dependent children.
