The Subclass 189 is a points-based permanent residency visa for skilled workers who do not need employer sponsorship or state nomination. Apply through the SkillSelect invitation system.
- Skills assessment from relevant assessing authority for your occupation
- IELTS Academic or PTE score meeting minimum requirements
- Points test score of 65+ (higher = better chance of invitation)
- Valid passport
Check if your occupation is on the MLTSSL
Your occupation must be on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL). Check the skilled occupation lists at immi.homeaffairs.gov.au → SkillSelect. Common occupations: engineers, nurses, accountants, teachers, IT professionals.
Get a skills assessment
Each occupation has a specific assessing authority: Engineers Australia (engineers), ANMAC (nurses), CPA/CAANZ (accountants), ACS (IT), AITSL (teachers). Apply directly to the authority. Skills assessments take 4–12 weeks and cost $300–$1,000+.
Take your English language test
Most applicants need IELTS Academic (minimum 6 overall, no band below 6) or equivalent. Higher scores earn more points. Excellent English (IELTS 8+) gives you 20 extra points.
Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) in SkillSelect
Create an EOI at immi.homeaffairs.gov.au → SkillSelect. Enter your occupation, English level, work experience, age, education, and other factors. The system calculates your points score. Points test scores: age, English, overseas and Australian work experience, education, NAATI credentials, partner skills, and state nomination.
Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA)
SkillSelect conducts regular invitation rounds. If your points score is above the cutoff for your occupation and round, you receive an ITA by email. You have 60 days to submit a full visa application. Processing after ITA: 7–12 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
The absolute minimum to submit an EOI is 65 points. However, actual invitation cutoffs have been 90–95 points for most occupations in recent rounds, due to high demand. More points significantly improve your chances.
Yes — you can include a spouse/partner and dependent children in your application. Your partner’s English proficiency and professional qualifications can add up to 10 extra points to your own score.