Subclass 189 Visa: Skilled Independent Visa Guide 2026

Q: What is the Subclass 189 visa?

The Subclass 189 (Skilled Independent) visa is a permanent Australian residency visa for skilled workers who are not sponsored by an employer, state, or territory. It is points-based and requires a minimum of 65 points, though most invitations clear at significantly higher scores.

Q: What points do I need for a 189 visa?

The minimum to submit an EOI is 65 points, but most engineering occupations require 85–95+ points to receive an invitation. The exact threshold varies by occupation and changes over time.

Q: Is there a state nomination requirement for the 189 visa?

No. The Subclass 189 does not require state or territory nomination or employer sponsorship. You are free to live and work anywhere in Australia once the visa is granted.

Q: Do I need a skills assessment for the 189 visa?

Yes. All Subclass 189 applicants must hold a positive skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority for their nominated ANZSCO occupation before submitting an Expression of Interest.

What Is the Subclass 189 Visa?

The Subclass 189 Skilled Independent visa is a permanent Australian residency visa for skilled workers who are not sponsored by an employer, an Australian state or territory, or a family member. It is granted based purely on your points score — making it one of the most competitive but most flexible visa pathways available.

Key features:

Permanent residency from day one of visa grant
No state or territory living obligation — live and work anywhere in Australia
No employer sponsorship needed
Must submit an EOI through SkillSelect and wait for an invitation

Eligibility Requirements

Be under 45 years of age at time of invitation
Have a nominated occupation on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL)
Have a positive skills assessment for your nominated occupation
Achieve at least Competent English (IELTS 6.0 in each band or equivalent)
Score at least 65 points on the general points test
Meet health and character requirements

Realistic Points Needed for a 189 Invitation

While 65 is the minimum to submit an EOI, most engineering occupations require 85–95+ points to actually receive an invitation. The threshold varies by occupation and changes with each invitation round. To be competitive for the 189, you typically need:

Age: 25–32 years (30 points) or 33–39 (25 points)
Superior English: IELTS 8+ each band (20 points)
Bachelor's or higher degree (15 points)
Significant work experience (10–20 points)
Plus additional factors (partner skills, Australian study, etc.)

Full points breakdown: How Many Points Do You Need for Australian PR in 2026?

Compare Visa Options

189 — Skilled Independent

Permanent. No sponsorship. Highest points threshold. Maximum flexibility.

190 — Skilled Nominated

Permanent. State nomination (+5 pts). Lower threshold than 189. Commitment to nominating state.

491 — Skilled Regional

Temporary. Regional sponsorship (+15 pts). Pathway to PR. Lowest effective threshold.

The 189 Application Process

Obtain a positive skills assessment from the relevant assessing body
Sit an English language test if not already done
Calculate your points score and confirm you meet the 65-point minimum
Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) in SkillSelect
Wait for an invitation (issued monthly by the Department of Home Affairs)
Lodge your visa application within 60 days of invitation
Satisfy health and character checks
Receive permanent residency visa grant

For engineers, step 1 requires an Engineers Australia CDR assessment (or Washington Accord pathway if eligible). For ICT professionals, an ACS RPL or standard skills assessment is required.

Assess Your 189 Visa Eligibility

Book a free consultation. We'll calculate your points score, confirm your skills assessment pathway, and advise whether the 189, 190, or 491 is most accessible for you.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Subclass 189 visa?

A permanent Australian residency visa for skilled workers who are not sponsored by an employer, state, or territory. Points-based, minimum 65 points required.

What points do I need for a 189 visa?

Minimum 65 to submit an EOI, but most engineering occupations require 85–95+ points for an actual invitation.

Is there a state nomination requirement for the 189 visa?

No. The 189 requires no state or territory nomination. You can live and work anywhere in Australia.

Do I need a skills assessment for the 189 visa?

Yes. A positive skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority is required before submitting an EOI.