The Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189) is a highly sought-after pathway for skilled workers aiming for permanent residency in Australia. This visa allows individuals to live and work in Australia without requiring sponsorship from an employer, state, or family member. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the process in eight simple steps.
Step 1: Assess Your Eligibility
Points Test
To qualify for the Skilled Independent Visa, you must score at least 65 points on the points test. Points are awarded based on factors such as age, English language proficiency, skilled employment, educational qualifications, and other criteria.
Points Breakdown
– Age: Up to 30 points (ages 25-32).
– English Language Proficiency: Up to 20 points (superior English).
– Skilled Employment: Up to 20 points (8-10 years of experience outside Australia).
– Educational Qualifications: Up to 20 points (doctorate degree).
– Other Factors: Points for professional year, Australian study, specialist education, community language skills, study in regional Australia, partner skills, etc.
Occupation List
Your occupation must be on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL).
Skills Assessment
You must obtain a positive skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority for your nominated occupation.
Age
You must be under 45 years old at the time of invitation to apply.
English Proficiency
You must demonstrate proficiency in English through tests such as IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
Before starting your application, ensure you have all necessary documents:
– Passport: Valid passport for yourself and any accompanying family members.
– Skills Assessment: Positive skills assessment from the relevant authority.
– English Test Results: Valid results from an approved English language test.
– Educational Certificates: Certified copies of your academic qualifications.
– Work Experience Documents: Proof of skilled employment, such as reference letters, contracts, and payslips.
– Identity Documents: Birth certificates, marriage certificates (if applicable), and other identity documents.
Step 3: Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)
Creating an ImmiAccount
- Register: Create an ImmiAccount on the Department of Home Affairs website.
- Log In: Log in to your ImmiAccount to start your EOI.
Completing the EOI
- Personal Details: Enter your personal information, including name, date of birth, and nationality.
- Points Claim: Provide details to claim points for age, English proficiency, skilled employment, education, and other factors.
- Nominated Occupation: Select your nominated occupation from the MLTSSL.
- Submitting the EOI: Review your information and submit the EOI through SkillSelect.
Important Tips
– Validity: An EOI is valid for two years. You can update your EOI with new information or changes at any time.
– No Fees: Submitting an EOI is free of charge.
Step 4: Wait for an Invitation to Apply
Your EOI will be ranked based on the points you claimed. The Department of Home Affairs conducts regular invitation rounds, where the highest-ranking EOIs are invited to apply for the visa. Ensure your EOI is up-to-date and accurate to increase your chances of receiving an invitation.
Step 5: Lodge Your Visa Application
Receiving an Invitation to Apply
If you receive an invitation to apply for the Skilled Independent Visa, you will have 60 days to submit your visa application.
Completing the Visa Application
- Log In: Log in to your ImmiAccount.
- Start Application: Begin your visa application by selecting the Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189).
- Personal Details: Enter your personal details, including passport information and family details.
- Skills and Qualifications: Provide details of your skills assessment, English test results, and educational qualifications.
- Work Experience: Enter information about your skilled employment history.
- Health and Character: Complete health and character declarations.
Upload Required Documents
Upload certified copies of all required documents, including:
– Skills Assessment: Positive skills assessment report.
– English Test Results: Valid test scores.
– Educational Certificates: Academic qualifications.
– Work Experience Documents: Proof of employment.
– Identity Documents: Birth certificates, marriage certificates, etc.
– Health and Character Documents: Medical examination results and police clearance certificates (if requested).
Pay the Visa Application Fee
Pay the required visa application fee through your ImmiAccount. The fee varies depending on your circumstances and the number of applicants included in your application.
Step 6: Complete Health and Character Checks
Health Checks
You and any accompanying family members must undergo health examinations conducted by an approved panel physician. The Department of Home Affairs will provide instructions on how to arrange these examinations.
Character Checks
Provide police clearance certificates from every country you have lived in for 12 months or more over the past 10 years. The Department of Home Affairs will guide you on obtaining these certificates.
Step 7: Track Your Application
Monitoring Your Application
Use your ImmiAccount to track the progress of your visa application. Ensure you respond promptly to any requests for additional information from the Department of Home Affairs.
Processing Time
The processing time for the Skilled Independent Visa can vary. Typically, it takes several months for the Department of Home Affairs to process applications. Stay patient and keep your contact information up-to-date.
Step 8: Receive Your Visa and Arrive in Australia
Visa Grant Notification
If your application is approved, you will receive a visa grant notification outlining your visa conditions, visa grant number, and the date your visa starts.
Arriving in Australia
Once your visa is granted, you are free to travel to and settle in Australia. Ensure you understand your visa conditions and comply with them to maintain your permanent residency status.
Common Misconceptions
Misconception 1: You Need a Job Offer to Apply for a Skilled Independent Visa
Clarification: The Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189) does not require a job offer. It is based on your skills, qualifications, and points score.
Misconception 2: You Can Apply Directly Without a Skills Assessment
Clarification: A positive skills assessment from a relevant authority is mandatory for this visa. You cannot apply without it.
Misconception 3: Age Limits Are Flexible
Clarification: You must be under 45 years old at the time of invitation. There are no exceptions to this rule.
Misconception 4: Points Threshold is Fixed
Clarification: While the minimum points requirement is 65, receiving an invitation often requires a higher score due to competition. Aim for the highest possible points to improve your chances.
Conclusion
The Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189) is an excellent pathway to permanent residency in Australia for skilled workers. By understanding the eligibility criteria, preparing the necessary documents, and following the step-by-step application process, you can enhance your chances of success. Always stay informed about the latest immigration updates and consider consulting with a registered migration agent for personalized guidance and support. With careful planning and preparation, you can achieve your goal of living and working permanently in Australia.