A points-based visa called the Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) is intended for skilled workers who are not sponsored by their employer, the state, or a relative. It gives holders the freedom to follow their career ambitions and establish a life in one of the most dynamic and wealthy nations in the world by allowing them to live and work in Australia permanently.

Key Features of the Subclass 189 Visa:

1. Points-Based System: To be eligible for the Subclass 189 visa, applicants must submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through the online SkillSelect system and be invited to apply based on their points score. Points are awarded based on factors such as age, English language proficiency, qualifications, work experience, and other relevant criteria.
2. Occupation Requirements: Applicants must nominate an occupation that is on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) and have their skills assessed by the relevant assessing authority to ensure they meet the Australian standards for their profession.
3. No Sponsorship Required: Unlike other skilled visa subclasses that require sponsorship by an employer or state/territory government, the Subclass 189 visa is independent of any sponsorship, giving applicants the flexibility to live and work anywhere in Australia.
4. Permanent Residency: The Subclass 189 visa offers permanent residency status, allowing holders and their eligible family members to live, work, and study in Australia indefinitely. It also provides access to Medicare, Australia’s public healthcare system, and other social benefits.

Benefits of the Subclass 189 Visa:

• Permanent residency status, providing stability and security for the future.
• Freedom to live and work anywhere in Australia, without the need for employer sponsorship or regional restrictions.

• Access to Australia’s public healthcare programme, Medicare, for reasonably priced medical care and services.
• Eligibility to apply for citizenship in Australia following completion of residency conditions.
• Possibility of sponsoring qualifying family members under visa subclass 190 or 489 for permanent residency.
• Access to public schools and universities, as well as educational possibilities for the visa holder and their family.

Application Process:

1. Skills Assessment: Determine whether your occupation is on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) and undergo a skills assessment by the relevant assessing authority to ensure your qualifications meet Australian standards.
2. Expression of Interest (EOI): Submit an Expression of Interest through the online SkillSelect system, providing details of your skills, qualifications, work experience, and other relevant information.
3. Invitation to Apply: If you meet the minimum points requirement and your occupation is in demand, you may receive an invitation to apply for the Subclass 189 visa.
4. Visa Application: Complete the visa application form accurately and truthfully, providing all required information and supporting documents, including evidence of your skills assessment, English language proficiency, and other relevant criteria.
5. Health and Character Checks: Undergo health examinations and provide police clearance certificates to satisfy health and character requirements.
6. Awaiting a Decision: Once the application is submitted, the Department of Home Affairs will process the visa application and make a decision on whether to grant the visa.
7. Visa Grant: If the application is successful, you will be granted the Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189), allowing you to live and work in Australia permanently as an independent skilled migrant.

For qualified professionals looking to settle in Australia, the qualified Independent Visa (Subclass 189) provides a route to permanent residency and a better future. Regardless of your level of experience, this visa gives you the chance to take advantage of Australia’s excellent standard of living while establishing a prosperous career. You can fulfill your aspirations of living and working in Australia by being familiar with the requirements for visas and the application procedure.