Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) (Points-tested) stream

About the visas

This stream is for Points-tested skilled workers who are not sponsored by an employer or family member or nominated by a state or territory government. It allows you to live and work in Australia as a permanent resident.

For the Skilled Independent (Points-tested) stream you need to submit an expression of interest.

If you are a New Zealand citizen you may be eligible to apply for the Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) (New Zealand) stream.

What you can do

This is a permanent visa. It lets you:

• Stay in Australia indefinitely
• Work and study in Australia
• Enrol in Medicare, Australia’s scheme for health-related care and expenses
• Sponsor eligible relatives for permanent residence
• Travel to and from Australia for five years
• Apply for Australian citizenship, if eligible.

Eligibility

Invitation

You must be invited to apply for the visa.

You will receive an invitation to apply for the visa if there are places available for your nominated occupation and you rank high enough in your points score. 

Occupation

Your occupation must be on the relevant list of eligible skilled occupations.

You must have a skills assessment that shows you have the skills and qualifications to work in that occupation.

Points score

You must be able to meet the points score on your invitation letter. This score will be 60 or more.

The score on your invitation letter is based on the information in your EOI.

You must be able to meet the points score eligibility at the time you are invited to apply for the visa. 

Age

You must be under 45 if and when you are invited to apply for the visa.

English

You must have Competent English.

Health

You must meet our health requirement.

Character

You must be of good character.

Debts

You must have repaid, or have arranged to repay, any outstanding debts to the Australian government.

Cancelled visas

You might not be eligible to apply for this visa if you have had a visa cancelled or refused while you were in Australia.

Applicants may also needed to meet below requirements

Character requirements, Health requirements, Health insurance requirements, Must not     have Debts to the Australian Government, biometric and other requirements if needed.​

Your obligations

You and your family must comply with all visa conditions and Australian laws.

Source – Australian Immigration Website.