What is the Subclass 189?
The Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) is a permanent residency visa for skilled workers who are not sponsored by an employer or nominated by a state or territory. It is points-tested through SkillSelect.
How SkillSelect Works
SkillSelect is Australia's Expression of Interest (EOI) system. You submit an EOI, and if you meet the 65-point threshold, you are placed in the pool. The Department of Home Affairs then sends invitation rounds — typically monthly — inviting the highest-scoring candidates to apply.
In recent rounds, invitation scores have typically ranged from 70 to 90+ points depending on the occupation.
Points Test Breakdown
Age (maximum 30 points)- 18–24: 25 points
- 25–32: 30 points
- 33–39: 25 points
- 40–44: 15 points
- 45+: 0 points
- Competent (IELTS 6.0 each band): 0 points
- Proficient (IELTS 7.0 each band): 10 points
- Superior (IELTS 8.0 each band): 20 points
- Overseas: up to 15 points
- Australian: up to 20 points
- Australian PhD: 20 points
- Australian Bachelor/Masters: 15 points
- Non-Australian PhD: 15 points
- Non-Australian Bachelor: 10 points
Skills Assessment
Before submitting an EOI, you must have a positive skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority for your nominated occupation.
Using Our Points Calculator
Use our free SkillSelect Points Calculator to estimate your score before speaking to a migration agent.
When to Use a Migration Agent
A registered migration agent adds the most value when:
- Your skills assessment outcome is uncertain
- You have complex work history
- You need advice on whether 189, 190 (state nomination), or another visa is optimal for you
- You want to maximise your points legitimately