The 189 visa allows highly skilled workers who are not sponsored by an employer, State or Territory of Australia, or family member to live and work permanently in Australia. If you wish to apply for this visa under the points tested stream, you must first obtain a positive skills assessment for your nominated occupation, and then lodge an Expression of Interest. If this is successful, you will be invited to lodge a visa application.
This stream is for Points-tested skilled workers who are not sponsored by an employer or family member or nominated by a state or territory government. It allows you to live and work in Australia as a permanent resident.
For the Skilled Independent (Points-tested) stream you need to submit an expression of interest.
If you are a New Zealand citizen you may be eligible to apply for the Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) (New Zealand) stream.
Eligibility
• have a relevant occupation on the 189 occupation list (MLTSSL)
• have a suitable skills assessment for the occupation
• Lodge an EOI and be invited to apply
• meet the points test pass mark of 65 points
• Be aged between 18 and 44 inclusive
• have Competent English
• be invited to apply.
• Meet health and character requirements
Occupation
Your occupation must be on the relevant list of eligible skilled occupations.
You must have a skills assessment that shows you have the skills and qualifications to work in that occupation.
Points score
You must be able to meet the points score on your invitation letter. This score will be 65 points or more.
The score on your invitation letter is based on the information in your EOI.
You must be able to meet the points score eligibility at the time you are invited to apply for the visa.