Australia Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) in 2026

The Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189), points-tested stream, is a permanent skilled-migration route that does not require state nomination, employer sponsorship or family sponsorship. It is designed for invited skilled applicants whose occupation and qualifications satisfy the current federal criteria.

Core eligibility

Home Affairs requires a valid invitation to apply. Before an invitation, the applicant generally needs to lodge a SkillSelect expression of interest, nominate an eligible occupation, obtain a suitable skills assessment for that occupation and satisfy the points framework. The points-tested stream requires the applicant to be under 45 when invited.

The published minimum is 65 points, but this is a threshold, not a promise. Home Affairs explicitly warns that achieving 65 points does not guarantee an invitation. Invitation outcomes depend on the program settings, occupation demand, ranking and invitation rounds in effect at the time.

Expression of interest and invitation

An EOI is not a visa application. It records the applicant's claims about age, English, skilled employment, education and other points factors. Those claims must be supportable when the visa application is lodged. If invited, Home Affairs gives 60 days to submit the visa application.

A material change in circumstances can change the points claim. Evidence should therefore be checked before the EOI is updated and again before accepting an invitation.

Skills assessment, English, health and character

The assessing authority depends on the nominated occupation. The skills assessment must be suitable and valid for the visa rules at the relevant time. English ability contributes to eligibility and points depending on the applicant's circumstances. Health and character requirements also apply to the applicant and relevant family members.

There is no universal salary, savings or investment threshold for subclass 189 published as a route-wide requirement. The route is based on skills, invitation and points rather than purchase of an asset or employer salary.

Permanent residence rights

Subclass 189 is a permanent visa. A holder can live, work and study anywhere in Australia, enroll in Medicare subject to Medicare rules, sponsor eligible relatives and later seek citizenship if the separate citizenship requirements are met. The travel facility is generally five years; after that, international travel as a permanent resident may require a Resident Return visa or citizenship status.

Fees and timing

Visa charges can change and depend on accompanying family members. Home Affairs' current pricing estimator should be checked immediately before payment. Processing times are published dynamically and should not be treated as a guaranteed deadline.

189 versus 190 and 491

Choose subclass 190 when state or territory nomination is the legal basis. Consider subclass 491 when a regional nomination or eligible relative sponsorship is appropriate. Unlike 491, subclass 189 is permanent at grant and has no designated-regional residence condition.

Return to the Australia visa hub, compare Oceania, or review broader work visa options.

Source: Australian Government Department of Home Affairs, verified 16 September 2026.

Official and supporting sources

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