The 189 visa also called Skilled Independent visa is a type of visa that aims to attract workers with certain skills that are required by the broader Australian community. On meeting the criteria, the person will be given permanent residency , and can also work and study anywhere in Australia. 

The subclass 189 visa is evaluated based on specific work skills. If the visa is approved, invited residents enjoy many of the same privileges as Australian citizens. Visa processing time guide tool is used to give an idea of how long it takes to process this visa. It provides the processing times for recently approved applications. However, it is just a general guide and does not pertain to the specific application.

Benefits of this Visa:

If the application for the Skilled Independent subclass 189 visa is approved, there is an option to bring ones relatives to Australia and travel back and forth from the country for 5 years. Additionally, nationality can also be given. However, as a newly arrived resident and visa holder, there may be a waiting period before accessing certain payments and benefits provided by the government. The travel aspect of the visa expires after 5 years, so one can obtain a Resident Return visa (subclass 155 or 157) to re-enter Australia after this time period. The subclass 189 visa can be obtained while already in Australia, or it can be used to enter the country. The day the Skilled Independent visa is received is the day a person becomes a permanent resident in the eyes of the law.

In this visa application the family name can be included. All family members must meet the health and character requirements of Australia. Family members usually consist of partner (spouse or registered partner), children, and grandchildren. The children can be either biological or adopted children or, they can be the partner’s children. To bring adult children who are over 18, a person has to provide evidence that they are financially dependent on them and their partner.

Visa Cost:

The current price for a subclass 189 visa is AUD $4,045. This amount in only for the main applicant, and additional fees are required for each family member listed on the application. The latest amount charged for a family member who is over 18 years old is AUD $2,020, while for someone under 18 years old, it is AUD $1,015. Furthermore, there may be an extra charge for applicants over 18 years old who do not have functional English language skills. This charge is paid in a second instalment and is only applicable if the visa is granted. The second instalment charge for all family members over 18 is AUD $4,885. In addition to these known costs, health checks, police certificates, and biometrics are also charged.

Application Processing Duration:

The processing of visa application can vary greatly depending on an individuals circumstances. The timing of the process depends on how complete the application and supporting documents are, if any additional documents or information are requested, and how long it takes to perform any necessary checks. If external agencies need additional information regarding health, character, or national security, this may also add more time to the process. The overall processing time can also be affected by the number of available spaces in the migration program for permanent migration visa applications. When applying for a Skilled Independent subclass 189 visa, it is important to be aware of the processing time and the potential for delays. However the estimated time can be from 15-25 months.

Eligibility Criteria:

The subclass 189 visa is a points-based category that requires specific qualifications to fulfill the eligibility criteria. In addition to receiving an invitation to apply and meeting the skills threshold, there are various age, language, health, and character prerequisites:

• Lodge an EOI (Expression of Interest)
• Receive an invitation to apply.
• Undergo an appropriate skills evaluation.
• Be below 45 years of age when invite.
• Identification proof documents.
• Character Clearance certificate.
• Achieve a minimum of 65 points.
• Possess a proficient level of English.
• Ensure that occupation is included in the relevant Skilled Occupation List.
• Satisfy the skills requirement.
• Fulfill the health requirement
• Meet the character requirement.
• Have no outstanding Government debt.
• Agree to the Australian values statement.
• Credentials for language qualifications within the community
• Study in regional Australia
• Qualifications for spouse skills
• Completion of a professional year in Australia
• Have no previous visas revoked or applications declined.

How to apply?

To get a Skilled Independent visa, it’s crucial to carefully follow the detailed application process. The speed and result of the visa application depend on the accuracy of the information given.

• Before applying, express interest through SkillSelect and gather all necessary documents.
• Then, apply for the visa online and wait for notifications and instructions regarding any additional documentation.
• Finally, receive the official visa outcome in writing.