Important Facts to Know Before You Apply for the Subclass 189 Visa

Do you dream of starting a new life in Australia? For the seasoned professional, a subclass 189 or Skilled Independent Visa could be the golden opportunity to permanent residency. It offers a direct route for independent settlement, as it is a skill-based visa suitable for workers with skills that are in demand and who are not sponsored by an employer or family member. But before you get too excited about hosting barbecues on Bondi Beach, you need to be aware of all the key aspects of the 189 visa, including eligibility, costs, conditions, and processing times. So here follows a full guide for anyone thinking about the 189 Australia visa.

What is the Subclass 189 Visa?

Subclass 189 is a Skilled Independent Visa that permits skilled workers to live and work in Australia permanently. Well, what makes this visa unique is that there is no requirement for an employer or state nomination supporting it, hence the name “independent”. It provides unrestricted work rights, the right to Medicare, and the ability to apply for Australian citizenship when eligible.

This pathway is also referred to as the 189 visa Australia, and is available to overseas professionals having a job on the SOL (Skilled Occupation List) of Australia.

Why is the 189 Visa Needed?

Once your Aus 189 visa is approved, you’ll be granted the following rights and benefits:

• Access Australia’s public healthcare system (Medicare).
• Travel in and out of Australia many times for five years (from the day your visa is granted).
• Stay in Australia indefinitely as a permanent resident.
• Sponsor eligible relatives for permanent residency.
• Apply for citizenship when eligible.
• Work or study anywhere in the country.

Who Can Apply for the Aus Visa 189?

To be eligible for the visa 189, you must meet several 189 visa Australia requirements, as outlined below:

If you turn 45 after the EOI is submitted and before the invitation is received, then you will not qualify.

ALSO READ: 189 VISA PROCESSING TIME: A COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE

What is the Aus Visa 189 Application Process?

The 189 visa application is a four-step process:

• File Expression of Interest (EOI): Through SkillSelect, provide your particulars, aptitudes, capabilities, and profession.
• Receive an Invitation to Apply: After considering your EOI and what the demand is at that moment, the Department will send you an invitation to apply if your points score is high enough.
• Invitation Received: After you get the invitation, you can apply for the visa within 60 days.
• Visa 189 Apply: Finish the online application, document submission, and fee payment.

Need expert help? A licensed migration agent or immigration agent Perth can simplify the visa process, making sure that everything is submitted properly and the application is aligned with the recent regulations.

Understanding the 189 Visa NSW Requirements

The 189 visa NSW requirements remain as per the subclass 189 general guidelines, so when moving to NSW, you need not be worried about it. However, as the visa is not state-sponsored, no further nomination by NSW is required (in contrast to Subclass 190). But then, high-demand occupations are mostly found in NSW, meaning that if you list NSW as your preference, you are likely to get an invitation.

How Much is the 189 Visa Fee?

Here’s a quick look at the 189 visa cost:

Prices are inclusive of GST and are payable at the time of lodging your application. If your family is involved, the 189 visa application fee budget should consider the mentioned components.

Including Family Members in Your 189 Visa Application

Are you thinking of taking your family with you? If you are applying for a 189 visa, you can add eligible family members to your application at any time before the decision is made about your visa.

Partner Requirements:

• Must be 18 years or older.

• Can be of the opposite or same sex.

• Must prove a genuine relationship and live together (not on a permanent separation basis).
  

Children Requirements:

• Under 18 years of age, or
• Between 18–23 years and dependent on the main applicant, or
• Over 23 years, only if they are dependent due to physical/cognitive disability.
  

All family members included must meet the health and character criteria as per the 189 visa condition guidelines.

How Long Does It Take? – 189 Processing Time

The 189 visa processing time can vary based on application complexity, the accuracy of submitted documents, and changes in immigration policy. Here’s an estimate:

To avoid delays, ensure that you’ve provided accurate and complete information in your application. An experienced Migration Agent can be extremely helpful in reducing processing time and avoiding costly errors.

ALSO READ: HOW TO APPLY FOR THE AUSTRALIA 189 VISA: A COMPLETE GUIDE

Tips from a Trusted Immigration Agent Perth

Working with a Migration Agent or a certified Immigration Agent Perth ensures your application is in expert hands. These professionals understand the dynamic immigration landscape and provide valuable advice on:

• Selecting the right occupation on the SOL.
• Meeting the exact 189 visa Australia requirements.
• Enhancing your point score.
• Submitting a strong EOI.
• Preparing documents that meet the visa 189 criteria.

When choosing an agent, make sure they are registered with the Office of the Migration Agents Registration Authority (MARA).

Why the Skilled Independent Visa is Popular

There are several reasons why the Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) remains a favourite:

• It offers full work and residency rights without employer sponsorship.
• You can bring your family members.
• It paves the way to permanent residency and citizenship.
• You have access to Medicare and social benefits.
• You can freely move across any Australian state or territory.

Compared to other visa subclasses, the 189 visa Australia provides freedom, flexibility, and security for skilled professionals.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying

• Incorrect or outdated EOI details: Always keep your Expression of Interest updated.
• Underestimating required points: Just 65 points is the minimum; aim higher for a better chance of invitation.
• Missing deadlines: Once invited, you only have 60 days to submit your visa application.
• Inadequate English or skill assessment: Make sure you fulfil these 189 visa condition requirements before lodging the EOI.
• Unverified documents: Every document must be accurate and certified.

Applying for the 189 visa is one of the most independent and rewarding ways to secure permanent residency in Australia. Whether you’re planning your future in NSW or elsewhere in the country, understanding the 189 visa fee, requirements, and 189 processing time will help you prepare thoroughly and avoid unnecessary delays. 

Seeking the help of a qualified migration agent or immigration agent in Perth can make a big difference in simplifying your journey toward Australian residency.

ALSO READ: UNDERSTANDING THE 189 VISA AUSTRALIA REQUIREMENTS

Conclusion

The subclass 189 visa opens doors to permanent residency for skilled individuals wanting to settle in Australia. Understanding the 189 visa Australia requirements, 189 visa cost, and 189 processing time ensures a smoother application. Consider consulting a professional migration agent to improve your success rate and streamline the process.