What does the subclass 189 visa guide cover?
This guide covers the key information you need to know about the subclass 189 visa, including eligibility requirements, visa streams, required documents, visa costs, processing times and the application process. It also explains how Turner-Rowe Migration can assist you throughout your entire visa application, with support available in both English and Spanish.
What do you need to know about the subclass 189 visa?
What is the official visa name → Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189)
Who can apply to this visa → Skilled workers invited by Australia
How long can you stay in Australia with this visa → It allows applicants to stay in Australia permanently
Can applicants work under this visa → Yes, applicants are allowed to work anywhere in Australia
Can applicants study under this visa → Yes, applicants are allowed to study in Australia
Can I include family members in the visa application → Yes, applicants can include eligible family members in their application
Does this visa lead to Permanent Residency → Yes, applicants can apply to Permanent Residency if eligible
Does this visa lead to Australian Citizenship → Yes, applicants can apply to Australian Citizenship if eligible
Are you eligible for a subclass 189 visa?
To be eligible, applicants generally must meet the following requirements:
Have an occupation on the Skilled Occupation List
Have a relevant skills assessment
Be invited to apply for this visa
Be aged under 45 when you apply
Satisfy the points test
Meet English language requirements
Meet health and character requirements
Have no debt to the Australian Government
Eligibility requirements can vary depending on personal circumstances.
For detailed information on eligibility requirements, please visit the Department of Home Affairs Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) eligibility page.
What are the subclass 189 visa streams?
Points-Tested Stream: For skilled workers who are invited to apply based on their points test score, occupation, and skills assessment. Quick check: if your occupation is on the Skilled Occupation List and you have 65+ points, you've met two of the key requirements, see the full eligibility list above to confirm you meet the rest.
New Zealand Stream: For New Zealand citizens who meet the criteria and have shown commitment and contribution to Australia, allowing them to live and work here permanently
What documents do you need to apply?
The common documents required for a subclass 189 visa application include:
Passport
Relationship documents (if applicable)
Character documents
English test results
Partner documents (if applicable)
Dependant documents (if applicable)
Skills assessment
EOI (Expression of Interest)
Employment documents
For detailed information on documents required, please visit the Department of Home Affairs Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) step by step page.
How much will the subclass 189 visa cost you?
The cost depends on the number of applicants included in the visa application.
Primary Applicant: $6,135 AUD
Additional Applicant Charge 18+: $3,070 AUD
Additional Applicant Charge U18: $1,540 AUD
Costs are subject to change and may vary depending on your individual circumstances and any additional charges, such as our Registered Migration Agent Fees.
For detailed information on visa costs, please visit the Department of Home Affairs visa pricing estimator page.
How do you apply for a subclass 189 visa?
The process generally includes the following steps:
Meet eligibility criteria
Gather Your Documents
Lodge the visa application
Attach more information (if asked)
Department of Home Affairs decision
For detailed information on how to apply, please visit the Department of Home Affairs Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) step by step page.
How long will you wait for the visa to be processed?
Points-Tested Stream applications are processed within:
50% within 7 months
90% within 7 months
New Zealand Stream applications are processed within:
50% within 53 months
90% within 61 months
Processing times are subject to change and may vary depending on individual circumstances and the completeness of your application.
For the latest information on Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) processing times, please visit the Department of Home Affairs visa processing times page.
What happens after your visa is lodged?
After your visa is lodged, the Department of Home Affairs assesses your application and may request additional information before making a decision.
The final step is the Department's decision on your application.
If your visa has been approved, the Department will provide you with:
Grant visa number
Date your visa starts
Visa conditions (if applicable)
If your visa has not been approved, the Department will provide you with:
Reason why it was refused
Rights to a decision’s review
Important: The Department will not refund you the application fee if your visa is refused.
How can Turner-Rowe Migration help you?
At Turner-Rowe Migration, we provide Australian migration and visa services in English and Spanish, with personalised support tailored to your goals and individual circumstances, backed by over 8 years of professional experience.
Our Registered Migration Agent helps you with:
Professional advice & personalised guidance
Eligibility assessment, visa options and migration pathway
Documentation support & avoiding application mistakes
Improving the quality of your application
Preparing and lodging your visa application
Post-lodgement support & application updates
Responding to Department of Home Affairs additional requests
Notify you the Department's decision on your application
Contact us today whether you're exploring your visa options, seeking guidance or advice, or ready to begin your Australian visa application.
Ready to start your Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) application?
Disclaimer: This information is provided for general information purposes only and is based on information published by the Australian Government and the Department of Home Affairs. Australian visa requirements, policies, fees, processing times and eligibility criteria may change. For the latest and most accurate information, applicants should refer to the Department of Home Affairs and the relevant visa subclass requirements.