Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)
Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) – Permanent Residency Without Sponsorship
What is the 189 Visa?
The Subclass 189 visa is a permanent residency visa under Australia’s General Skilled Migration (GSM) program. It allows highly skilled individuals with occupations listed on the Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) to live and work anywhere in Australia.
Unlike other skilled visas, the 491 requires state/territory nomination or sponsorship by an eligible regional family member. The Department of Home Affairs describes the 491 as a provisional visa for skilled workers who want to live and work in regional Australia.
As a trusted PR visa 189 consultancy in Sydney, IME Advisors simplifies the process, from your Skills Assessment to Expression of Interest (EOI) and visa lodgement.
Who is the 189 Visa For?
You may be eligible for the Subclass 189 visa if you:
IME Advisors will assess your profile, calculate your points score, and guide you through each eligibility step.
Benefits of the Subclass 189 Visa
The 189 Visa gives you independence, flexibility, and long-term opportunity in Australia
How IME Advisors Helps as Your 189 Visa Consultant in Sydney
As leading 189 visa consultants in Australia, we are trusted by skilled workers across engineering, IT, healthcare, trades, and more.
189 Visa Application Process – Step by Step
Step 1: Skills Assessment
We help you apply to the relevant authority (e.g. Engineers Australia, ACS, VETASSESS) for a positive skills assessment.
Step 2: English Language Test
You must show at least competent English – IELTS 6 in each band or equivalent PTE/TOEFL/OET/Cambridge scores.
Step 3: Points Test Calculation
We evaluate your GSM score across age, education, experience, English, and more.
Step 4: Expression of Interest (EOI)
We submit your EOI through SkillSelect, targeting maximum visibility for an invitation.
Step 5: Invitation to Apply (ITA)
If your EOI is selected, you’ll receive an ITA. You then have 60 days to lodge the visa.
Step 6: Visa Lodgement & Final Processing
We prepare and lodge your visa with full supporting documentation. Most 189 visas are processed in 6–9 months depending on occupation and volume.
Common Occupations Eligible for 189 Visa
The 189 Visa is open to occupations listed on the MLTSSL. Popular fields include:
Not sure if your job qualifies? Contact us for a eligibility check.
FAQs – Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)
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