Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) (Points-tested) stream
The 189 visa permits highly skilled workers, not sponsored by an employer, state, or family, to live and work permanently in Australia. To apply under the points-tested stream, you must first obtain a positive skills assessment for your occupation, and then submit an Expression of Interest.
If successful, you will be invited to apply for the visa. This stream is specifically for points-tested skilled workers seeking permanent residency.
Eligibility
1
Have a relevant occupation on the 189 occupation list (MLTSSL)
see this link for the occupation list as well as the assessing authority.
2
Have a suitable skills assessment for the occupation
Applicants may require a skills assessment as part of their visa application. This is done by a relevant assessing authority to obtain a skills assessment. The assessing authority will provide all necessary application forms and information on the assessment. An additional charge by the assessing authority is usually imposed.
3
Lodge an Expression of Interest and be invited to apply
An Expression of Interest needs to first be lodged, and the highest-scoring candidates will receive an invitation to submit their visa application.
4
Pass the points test pass mark of 65 points
For visa applications after July 2018, the pass mark is set at 65.
5
Be between 18 and 44 years of age
At the time of invitation, you need to be under 45. This means that you can still apply for the visa if you turn 45 after you receive your invitation. If you turn 45 after you submit your EOI, but before receiving your invitation, you will not be invited to apply.
6
Have Competent English
This is defined as :
​
International English Language Testing System (IELTS Academic or General Training​)
At least 6 fo​r each of the 4 components
​
Test of English as a Foreign Language internet-based Test (TOEFL iBT)
​​TOEFL iBT tests that were completed between 26 July 2023 and 4 May 2024, will not be accepted for Australian visa and migration purposes. During this period, the TOEFL iBT test being offered was not an approved test.​
At least 12 for listening, 13 for reading, 21 for writing and 18 for speaking
​
Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic)
At least 50 for each of the 4 components
​
Occupational English Test (OET)
At least B for each of the 4 components
​
From 12 February 2024, only results from the paper-based Cambridge C1 Advanced test (previously known as Cambridge English: Advanced CAE) will be accepted for Australian visa and migration purposes.
Test scores for both C1 Advanced paper-based and computer-based tests, taken before 12 February 2024, are still accepted.​
At least 169 in each of the 4 components
7
Meet health and character requirements
This generally means you have no serious criminal records, and that you have no significant health conditions.