Subclass 189
Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)
Permanent residence for points-tested skilled workers — no employer, no state nomination, no regional restriction.
Key features
- Permanent visa from grant — full work and study rights.
- No sponsorship required — the most competitive GSM stream.
- Whole family included; PR for partner and dependent children.
- 5-year travel facility; pathway to citizenship after meeting residence requirements.
Core eligibility
- Occupation on the relevant Skilled Occupation List at lodgement / invitation.
- Positive skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority.
- Under 45 at invitation.
- Competent English (IELTS 6.0 / equivalent) — higher bands give more points.
- EOI lodged in SkillSelect with at least 65 points; in practice, successful 189 invitations usually require significantly higher scores.
How StudyNet supports 189 cases
- Honest points review and 6–12 month improvement plan.
- Skills assessment pathway selection and document support.
- EOI optimisation and ongoing strategy until invitation.
- Family inclusion, health, character and lodgement quality control.
Disclaimer: This page provides general information and refers to the Department of Home Affairs visa categories. It does not replace personalised migration advice. Please book a consultation for case-specific guidance.