SKILLED INDEPENDENT VISA – SUBCLASS 189

Who is eligible? (2025 update)

To qualify for subclass 189 you must satisfy these key eligibility criteria. Note: meeting most does not guarantee an invitation, you must still be invited via the online system.

1. Skilled occupation

You must nominate an occupation which appears on the relevant skilled occupation list (such as the MLTSSL/CSOL) for subclass 189. You must also have a suitable skills assessment for that occupation, from the relevant assessing authority.

2. Expression of Interest (EOI) via SkillSelect

You should submit an Expression of Interest via the SkillSelect device, presenting info which includes your age, English language skillability, qualifications, work revel in and nominated profession. Your EOI is ranked and, if selected, you acquire an invitation to apply for the visa. Note: only invited applicants may lodge.

3. Points-Test

You must score at least 65 points under Australia’s points test. However,  and this is critical, historical data shows that scoring the bare minimum may not be sufficient, given competitive occupations often require significantly higher points.

4. Age

Typically you must be under 45 years of age when invited. (Some variation may apply depending on update)

5. English language proficiency

You must demonstrate at least competent English in an approved test (e.g., IELTS, PTE, TOEFL iBT, OET) unless exempt.

6. Health and character requirements

Applicants and any included family members must meet Australia’s health standards (via panel physicians) and character requirements (police clearances etc).

7. Other criteria

1. Your application can be made inside or outside Australia.
2. If you are in Australia, you should ensure you hold a valid bridging visa (if applicable) at time of application.

Important recent updates & trends (2025)

• The Department of Home Affairs (DHA) has announced a fresh invitation round for subclass 189 on 13 November 2025.
• Program caps for permanent skilled migration have been tightened, meaning fewer invitations and greater competition.
• While 65 points remains the minimum, in many occupations the actual score needed to receive an invitation is significantly higher.
• The policy environment is shifting: ensure your English tests and skills assessments remain valid at time of invitation/decision; review the skilled lists carefully.
• Note: Some commentary suggests that English-language test criteria may be tightened (for example certain test types or formats), always check the latest DHA guidance.

Points test key factors (overview)

Here are some of the main attributes that contribute to your points score (for illustration only). Specific points may change and must be verified with the official table.

Tip: Even if you reach 65, you should aim for a higher score to remain competitive.

Application process – step-by-step

1. Check your eligibility: occupation, skills assessment, points, English, age.
2. Get the skills assessment for your nominated occupation.
3. Sit the English language test (if required) and obtain results.
4. Use a valid points calculator / estimate your score.
5. Submit your EOI via SkillSelect and wait for an invitation.
6. Upon invitation, you have 60 days to lodge your visa application online.
7. Gather and submit all required supporting documents (identity, passports, employment references, qualifications, English results, health and character checks).
8. Wait for a decision, processing times vary based on demand, complexity, and completeness of application.
9. Upon grant, receive the visa and enjoy its benefits.

Costs and processing times (estimates)

• Application fee: historically around AUD 4,910 for the main applicant.
• Additional fees apply for dependent and partner applicants.
• Processing times: Estimates are frequently updated. Some sources suggest 75% of applications processed in 8 to 12 months (as of 2025) though this varies by occupation and complexity.
• Invitation rounds and quotas heavily influence how quickly you may receive an invitation.

Common pitfalls & how to avoid them

• Assuming 65 points is enough, many invitations go to much higher scoring applicants.
• Skills assessment or English test results being invalid or expired at the time of invitation or decision.
• Incorrect points claims in EOI (age, experience, partner credentials), risk of refusal.
• Omitting or poorly documenting employment references, contracts, roles.
• Missing health or character checks causing delays.
• Not keeping your EOI updated if your situation improves (e.g., gain more experience, better English), you want your ranking as strong as possible.

Why choose Think Higher Consultants?

At Think Higher Consultants we provide expert guidance for skilled migration to Australia. With years of experience in helping professionals from Pakistan and the region navigate the Australian migration system, we are committed to your success. Best Education and Migration Consultants in Australia.

We help you:

• • Assess your eligibility and points position.
  • Choose the correct occupation and assess authority.
  • Prepare and lodge your EOI via SkillSelect correctly.
  • Compile strong documentation, skills assessments, employment references, English results.
  • Avoid common errors and maximise your visa success prospects.
  • Support you through all stages, right from eligibility assessment through to visa grant and beyond.