Skilled Independent (Subclass 189)
Category: Residency · Processing time: 6-12 months after Invitation
Recently verified
AI-assisted. Parts of this page may be drafted with AI and editor-reviewed. Always confirm rules, fees, and hours on official government sources before you act. How we use AI · Editorial standards
Apply through official authority
Department of Home Affairs
Always submit applications through the official source. Last verified 2026-10-03.
Visa type
Residency
Processing time
6-12 months after Invitation
Fees
ApplicationCharge: AUD 4,640 + AUD 2,320 spouse + AUD 1,160 child
Validity
Confirm on official source
Stay duration
Confirm on official source
Entry type
Confirm single/multiple entry rules
Insurance
Confirm if required
Bookmark
Save this visa to My Plan
Overview
The Skilled Independent (Subclass 189) visa allows skilled workers to obtain permanent residency in Australia without needing employer sponsorship. Applicants are selected based on their skil
- Leads to permanent residency: Yes
- Requires job offer: No
- Language required: Yes
- Minimum education: Skill assessment in eligible occupation
- Financial requirement: Applicants must demonstrate independent occupational skills capacity and settle initial application fees.
- Accommodation proof: No
- Return ticket: No
Estimated Costs
- - ApplicationCharge: AUD 4,640 + AUD 2,320 spouse + AUD 1,160 child
Required Documents
- - Positive skills assessment documentation
- - Active EOI profile confirmation in SkillSelect
- - Certified English language proficiency test results
- - Apostilled police clearance certificates
- - Approved medical clearance sheets
Application Steps
- Secure a positive skill assessment for an eligible occupation on the relevant skilled list.
- Submit a formal Expression of Interest (EOI) profile through the official SkillSelect system.
- Wait to receive an official Invitation to Apply (ITA) during periodic point-score selection rounds.
- Lodge your complete Subclass 189 visa application within 60 days of invitation issuance.
- Pass all required health examinations and character background checks to complete the grant track.
Always confirm the latest steps and forms on the official portal: Department of Home Affairs →
Travel Insurance Requirement
- Mandatory: Confirm with official source
- Minimum coverage: Confirm current coverage rules
- Valid regions: Confirm accepted regions
- Approved providers: Use providers accepted by the official authority
Embassy, Consulate & Appointments
- - Embassy, consulate, regional jurisdiction, and appointment protocols vary depending on the applicant's location.
- - Always confirm specific localized handling paths on the official department portal before transferring application fees.
Browse foreign embassies in Australia (MigrantIQ directory) →
Directory listings are for planning only — not legal advice. Confirm jurisdiction and appointment rules on the official portal.
Application checklist
Track your Skilled Independent (Subclass 189) preparation
Check items off as you prepare. Progress is saved in this browser and can be synced from My Plan.
Get visa checklist updates
Receive relevant reminders and source updates for Skilled Independent (Subclass 189) in Australia.
Benefits & What This Visa Allows
- - Grants immediate full permanent residency inside Australia with no regional or corporate ties
- - Bypasses the need for traditional corporate employer sponsorships or state government nominations
- - Establishes a direct, unencumbered pathway to apply for full Australian citizenship status
Trust & safety
Before you pay or submit documents
Use the official portal for applications and payments. Be careful with agents who guarantee approval, ask for personal-account transfers, or pressure you to send originals before a written contract.
Relevant laws
- Immigration Status and Overstay Rules
Immigration · Severity: Critical
Your right to stay in Australia is determined by the specific visa, residence permit, entry stamp, or visa-free allowance you possess. You should understand that simply having a pending application, job offer, or…
- Work Authorisation Rules
Employment · Severity: Critical
In Australia, work authorisation is important for anyone wishing to engage in employment activities while residing in the country. You should understand that possessing a visa for entry does not automatically grant the…
- Tax Residency and Income Reporting
Tax · Severity: High
In Australia, tax residency is determined by your physical presence and intention to reside in the country. If you live in Australia for more than six months, work locally, or register as a resident, you may be…
Active scam alerts
In Australia, some fraudulent agents exploit newcomers by overcharging for essential services such as document translation, notarisation, or obtaining apostilles. This is especially common among visa applicants,…
In Australia, a concerning scam involves individuals impersonating airport staff, immigration officers, or travel agents. They claim that newcomers must pay a special fee to enter the country, avoid questioning, obtain…
In Australia, a growing concern involves fraudsters providing fake university admission letters or scholarship offers to unsuspecting students, parents, and scholarship applicants. These scams often surface through…
Scammers are targeting newcomers in Australia by advertising fake rental properties online. They often create listings that appear legitimate, complete with enticing pictures and low rental prices. To attract potential…
Quick Eligibility Check
Use this self-check for Skilled Independent (Subclass 189). It does not replace official legal assessment.
Helpful partner links
MigrantIQ is free. Some links are affiliate partners — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
consultation
Australia: Australia expert help →Find expert support for Australia migration questions.
Sponsored or partner placement when a matching partner is active.
Common Rejection Reasons
- - Inaccurate information in your EOI or application.
- - Insufficient evidence of English language proficiency.
- - Failure to provide a positive skills assessment.
Application Tips
- - Ensure your skills assessment is positive and relevant to your nominated occupation.
- - Maintain an updated EOI profile in SkillSelect and accurately represent your qualifications.
- - Prepare all required documents in advance to avoid delays during the application process.
Sources & References
Use these references for verification. Official government and appointment portals override summary guidance on MigrantIQ.
Feedback
Was this guide helpful?
Your answer helps us improve guides and update priority.
Plan your next steps
Summarize this page with AI
Opens your assistant with a pre-filled prompt (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Claude). Gemini uses Google AI Mode.
Not affiliated with any AI platform. Always verify immigration rules on official government sites.
Frequently Asked Questions
Skilled migration from Bangladesh to Australia under the Skilled Independent (Subclass 189) visa requires meeting points-based criteria, including age, English proficiency, and work experienc
Skilled migration from Bangladesh to Australia can be pursued through the Skilled Independent (Subclass 189) visa. Applicants must meet age, skills, and English language requirements. Points
Skilled Migration to Australia from Bangladesh can be pursued through the Skilled Independent (Subclass 189) visa. Applicants must meet eligibility criteria, including skills assessment and E
