Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189)

The three streams

• Points-tested stream: for skilled workers invited from SkillSelect. You do not need a sponsor or nominator.
• New Zealand stream: for eligible New Zealand citizens who have shown commitment and contribution to Australia. It has no visa application charge.
• Hong Kong stream: for eligible Hong Kong passport holders and British National (Overseas) passport holders who meet the residence requirements.

How the points-tested process works

1. Choose an occupation on the skilled occupation lists.
2. Get a skills assessment for that occupation.
3. Count your points with the points calculator. You need at least 65. Read the points test explained.
4. Submit an expression of interest in SkillSelect.
5. Wait for an invitation. See invitation rounds. You must be under 45 when you are invited.
6. Lodge your application within 60 days of the invitation.

Does my partner help?

Yes. A skilled partner with a suitable assessment and English can add partner points. If your partner scores higher, they can also submit as the main applicant and include you.

What does it cost?

From A$6,135 for the main applicant, A$3,070 for each additional adult and A$1,540 for each additional child. A lower charge applies to eligible Pacific Island and Timor-Leste citizens. See the fees table.

How long does it take?

The Department prioritises 189 applications under Ministerial Direction No. 122. Applications in priority sectors (construction, healthcare, teaching, agriculture, aquaculture, fishing and resources, and law enforcement and defence interests) are processed first. Next come applicants who were in Australia when they lodged, then those who lodged from outside Australia. The Department publishes the lodgement months it is currently allocating. See processing times.