Australia is one of the best destinations for people with higher education who desire great career options along with an improved standard of living. When it comes to the best visas for working professionals, the Skilled Independent Visa 189 is the top priority. The applicants can live here and work indefinitely without having anyone sponsoring them.
This being the case, when you intend to apply for this visa, it will be crucial to understand the requirements of an 189 visa to increase the chances of a successful application.
Check out this guide as we discuss eligibility measures, the application procedure, benefits, and common problems that applicants in Australia face.
What is the Skilled Independent Visa Subclass 189 Australia?
The Visa 189 is for acquiring permanent residency that has been given to skilled workers. This visa can be used by professionals whose skills can meet the labour market conditions of Australia. Unlike other skilled migration visas, this visa does not need nomination by an Australian employer, state, or family member.
This visa is appropriate for skilled professionals willing to work and live in the country. After successful approval, the visa offers the way to become an Australian citizen and also ensures benefits under different health insurance and education-related schemes.
Read: 189 Visa Processing Time: A Comprehensive Guide
Eligibility Criteria of 189 Visa Australia
A candidate applying for the 189 subclass visa is required to comply with the strict measures of the Australian government. Eligibility criteria that apply to all candidates are:
1. Occupation on the Skilled Occupation List
The applicants are responsible for the task they want to undertake and must appear in the MLTSSL list prior to applying for the visa. Only such ones listed in it are entitled to apply. Here, those jobs are urgently in demand within the country, including architects, IT specialists, healthcare employees, and the like.
2. Skill Assessment
Candidates are required to complete a skills assessment before applying for the visa. This makes their qualifications and work experience equal to the Australian standard for their nominated occupation.
3. Points Test Requirement
The eligible candidates who desire to apply for a Skilled Independent Visa Subclass 189 Australia must acquire a minimum score of 65 points in the General Skilled Migration point test. Points are granted to the prospects based on various factors:
Age: Up to a maximum score if the applicant is aged between 25-32
English language proficiency: Up to the highest level
Work experience, both within Australia and abroad
Qualifications (including secondary, technical, and/or trade)
Special education qualifications
Skills of partner if applying with a partner
Australian study requirement
4. Age Limit
Candidates must not be above 45 years old when applying for this visa. During the visa processing and invitation for interview, the applicant’s age should not be more than 45.
5. English Language Ability
An applicant must undergo a test for English language proficiency. The authorised tests are IELTS, PTE, TOEFL, and OET. The score obtained in the above tests improves the skilled migration points assessment.
6. Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect
Applicants have to file an Expression of Interest via the SkillSelect system. This would record the skills, knowledge, and the number of points achieved by the applicant. Invitations are then sent to the applicants based on these points.
7. Health and Character Requirements
All applicants must meet health and character standards, including medical tests and police clearance certificates. These measures are mainly to ensure that migrants do not pose a threat to the Australian community.
Read: Difference Between 189 And 190 Visa Australia!
Step-by-Step Application Process for the 189 Subclass Visa Australia
Given below are some vital steps for all applicants:
Step 1: Review Your Eligibility
Perform a brief cross-check of your documents to make sure that you qualify for the Australia 189 visa requirements. Age, employment, skill assessment, and points test are the common conditions for acquiring such a visa.
Step 2: Skills Assessment
Get a skills assessment from a suitable evaluating body for your occupation. Different professions have separate bodies to evaluate your skills, and they are not the same for every occupation.
Step 3: Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)
You can use SkillSelect to prepare your EOI. This would include your proficiency in the English language and your documents stating your educational background and working experience. Your EOI will be ranked based on points. Only the best candidates with high points will receive the invitation.
Step 4: Obtain an Invitation to Apply (ITA)
When you pass the selection test having gathered great scores, you’ll then receive an ITA from the State. From then on, you will get 60 days to get your visa ready.
Step 5: File Your Visa Application
You need to apply for a visa online via the website of the Department of Home Affairs as well as attach the essential documents, which may include identification, English language examination marks, proof of work experience, and health reviews.
Step 6: Medical and Police Clearance
Medical examination and police clearance certificates for adhering to Australia’s health and character standards.
Step 7: Wait for the Visa Decision
Processing times for the 189 Australia visas differ based on application volumes and specific cases. The Department of Home Affairs will evaluate your application and let you know of the decision.
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Advantages of the Skilled Independent Visa 189 Australia
The 189 visa has several benefits. These include:
- Permanent Residency: Acquiring this visa will allow you to work, study, and live in the country for an indefinite time.
- No Sponsorship Required: There is no need for employer or state nomination for this visa.
- Work and Study Rights: Eligibility to work in any occupation and study at Australian institutions.
- Medicare: Facility: You will be eligible to benefit from Australia’s public healthcare system.
- Path to Acquiring Citizenship: This visa enables you to be qualified to apply for Australian citizenship.
- Sponsor Family Members: The applicant can also sponsor their relatives to come to Australia and reside.
Common Challenges in the 189 Visa Application Process
Although the 189 subclass visa in Australia offers significant opportunities, applicants may encounter challenges, such as:
- High Points Requirement: Due to strong competition, candidates often need a score above 65 points to receive an invitation. Enhancing English proficiency, accumulating additional work experience, or pursuing further studies in Australia can increase points.
- Time for Skills Assessment: Skills assessment takes several months, depending on the assessing authority and the complexity of your application. It is advisable to start this course to avoid delays.
- Limited rounds of invitation: The Australian government makes invitations from time to time. The demand for the occupation can hamper the possibility of selection chances. It’s better to keep yourself updated with the trends of invitations and improving points
- Rigorous documentation requirements: Failure to provide full and accurate documentation may lead to application refusals. A Migration Agent Perth can help you ensure you meet all the requirements of Australia Visa 189 and have an easy application process ahead.
Read: 189 Visa Points Calculator: Assessing Your Path To Permanent Residency
Conclusion
189 subclass visa Australia is one of the most significant ways for experienced professionals to obtain permanent residency. Although the conditions set for 189 visas in Australia are highly rigorous, the application process is not that easy.
Do not forget to prepare the documents and carry all of them during this process. Having a professional Migration Agent in Perth is the best way to handle things faster. Being able to gain a good grasp on the Visa 189 eligibility requirements and application processes will take you a step ahead to securing an assured living in Australia.
