Skilled Independent Subclass 189
The Skilled Independent Subclass 189 Visa is an option for immigration to Australia for skilled workers who are not having sponsorship from an employer or family member in Australia or a State or Territory. It is an Australia PR Visa that permits skilled workers to reside, work and study in the nation subject to fulfilling the eligibility criteria as per the framework for assessment of skills.
Benefits of the Skilled Independent Visa include:
Living and working anywhere in Australia: Once granted the visa, you have the freedom to reside and seek employment in any part of Australia based on your personal preferences and opportunities.
Pathway to Australian citizenship: Holding a Skilled Independent Visa provides you with an opportunity to eventually become an Australian citizen. After meeting certain requirements such as residing in Australia for a specified period, fulfilling citizenship criteria, and passing the citizenship test, you can apply for Australian citizenship.
Enrolment in the public healthcare system: As a Skilled Independent Visa holder, you are eligible to enroll in Australia’s public healthcare scheme, known as Medicare. This provides you with access to essential medical services and subsidized healthcare.
Sponsorship of skilled family members: Once you obtain the Skilled Independent Visa, you can potentially sponsor certain eligible family members for permanent residency in Australia through appropriate visa pathways.This allows your skilled family members to join you and enjoy the benefits of living and working in Australia.
It is important to note that the Skilled Independent Visa is subject to a points-based assessment. The points are allocated based on factors such as age, English language proficiency, work experience, education qualifications, and other relevant criteria. Meeting the minimum points threshold is essential to be considered for an invitation to apply for this visa.
In addition to meeting the basic eligibility requirements, you must achieve a pass mark score of 65 points against the skilled migration points test. Some of the main factors for points allocation are: Age, Educational Qualification, English language proficiency, Work experience and Partners Skills assessment among others.
Steps Involved in the process to obtain a Skilled Independent Visa
Australia operates a Skill Selection process known as Skills Select whereby an applicant expresses an interest in applying for a visa under the subclass 189, after obtaining a successful Skills Assessment from a designated assessment body in Australia. The expression of Interest application, also commonly known as EOI, can be filed if you meet a minimum of 65 points against the points test score and have a valid positive Skills Assessment result alongwith a valid English proficiency score in IELTS/TOEFL/PTE among other requirements. Once you submit your expression of interest application, Government will review your application and may invite you to apply for a permanent residency visa, depending on you meeting the current selection criteria at the time of application.