The 189 visa, also called the Skilled Independent Visa, offers permanent residency for skilled workers and those with a Hong Kong or British National (Overseas) passport. This visa provides more flexibility and doesn’t require sponsorship from an Australian employer or family member.
Holding a skilled independent subclass 189 visa can also increase your chances of home loan approval, as lenders often favour applicants with permanent residency. Interested? Read on to learn about this visa and how it can help you get approval for a home loan in Australia.
189 Visa Eligibility
Want to be eligible for this visa? To apply for this visa, you must meet these criteria:
- You must receive an invitation.
- You should be aged between 18 and 44 years old to be eligible for an invitation.
- You need to have a competent level of English proficiency with valid proof.
- You must pass the skill assessments with at least 65 points.
- You must achieve the required score in the visa application.
- You need to meet the health and character requirements.
- Your occupation should be on the 189 visa occupation list (Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List) and you must have a nomination for it.
Benefits Of Having A Skilled Independent Visa
As the holders of the visa subclass 189, skilled workers, the ones who are not sponsored by any employer or family member, can access various benefits, including:
- Enjoy the freedom to live, work, and study in Australia without time restrictions.
- Become eligible to apply for Australian citizenship.
- Access free healthcare by enrolling in Medicare.
- Travel to and from Australia for five years from the visa approval date.
- Sponsor eligible family members for Australian permanent residency.
Family members, including a spouse/partner and child/stepchild can also enjoy these benefits.
Things To Do Before Applying For The Visa
The subclass 189 visa application is by invitation only. To receive an invitation to apply, you must submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) with a score of at least 65 points.
What exactly is being assessed to apply for the subclass 189 visa? Here’s the list:
- Age
- Education (Diploma/Degree/PhD)
- English proficiency level
- Working experience
- Personal & partner skills
- NAATI Accreditation
- Professional year
189 Visa Pathways
All the Skilled independent visa subclass pathways below are by invitation only. Applicants must be under 45 years of age and do not need a sponsor or nominator. The application cost starts from AUD 4,115.00.
Note that this visa is only available for Permanent Resident applications, so temporary visa fees are not applicable.
There was a New Zealand stream before the government shut it down, and it will not be open to new applications from 1 July 2023.
Points Tested Stream
This visa is for skilled workers who are invited to apply based on their experience and qualifications to live and work anywhere in Australia permanently.
Requirements:
- Got at least 65 points on the points test
- Hold an occupation listed on the skilled occupation list
- Provide a positive skills assessment
- Meet English language standards
- Pass health and character checks
Hong Kong Stream
The Hong Kong Stream under the 189 visa provides a way to permanent residency for eligible Hong Kong or British National (Overseas) passport holders living in Australia who have demonstrated commitment to Australia.
Requirements:
- Hold a valid Hong Kong or British National (Overseas) passport.
- Have lived in Australia for at least 4 years immediately before applying.
- Pass health and character checks.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the process for obtaining the 189 visa?
In applying for the 189 visa, you must turn in an Expression of Interest (EOI) to SkillSelect, wait for an invitation, and then complete the visa application process.
What is the significance of the points score in the 189 visa application?
The points score is essential as it determines your eligibility and ranking for an invitation. You must score at least 65 points to be considered by the Australian government.
Is an 189 visa permanent residency?
Yes, the subclass 189 skilled independent visa is included in the permanent visa, meaning it provides permanent residency in Australia.
Am I eligible to get a home loan on an 189 visa?
Yes, you are eligible as long as you fulfil the requirements.
Do I need to apply for FIRB approval on an 189 visa?
No, you don’t need to apply for FIRB approval.
Do I need to pay for the Foreign Buyer Stamp Duty/Surcharge?
No, you don’t need to pay for the Foreign Buyer Stamp Duty/Surcharge.
Conclusion
Applying for an 189 visa is essential if you want to live and work in Australia as a permanent resident without any sponsorship or nomination. Holding an 189 visa can also improve your opportunities of getting approved for a home loan in Australia. Professional Home Loans is here to assist skilled workers and other professionals with 189 visas in securing fast home loan approval. Contact us today to book a free consultation!