Please note that the information provided for skilled visas may be subject to change due to the Federal Budget announcements.
The Skilled Independent (subclass 189) visa has two streams, being the Points Tested stream and Hong Kong stream.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 189 Points Tested Stream?
The key things to know about this visa stream are:
- You must first submit an Expression of Interest
- You must be invited to apply
- It is a permanent visa
- It is a skilled visa and requires a positive valid skills assessment
- It does not require sponsorship by an Australian state or territory or a relative in Australia
- It is a points-based visa
- It has an age limitation
The main requirements of the subclass 189 visa are:
- Applicants must have an occupation on the relevant skilled occupation list
- Applicants must have a suitable skills assessment for the occupation
- Applicants must be invited to apply for this visa
- Applicants must satisfy the points test
- Applicants must be aged under 45 when they are invited to apply for the visa;
- Applicants must meet the health requirements
- Applicants must meet the character requirements
Subclass 189 Hong Kong Stream
The subclass 189 (Hong Kong stream) visa is specifically designed for eligible Hong Kong or British National (Overseas) passport holders who have been living and working in Australia on certain temporary visas. Applicants must have held an eligible visa for at least four years and demonstrate compliance with visa conditions during that time. This stream does not require applicants to meet the points test or have an occupation on the skilled occupation list, making it a unique pathway for Hong Kong residents seeking permanent residence in Australia.
Applicants must also satisfy health and character requirements, and be in Australia when they apply for the visa and when it is granted. For detailed eligibility criteria and current updates, visit the Department of Home Affairs website.
What is the processing time for a 189 visa?
The processing time for a subclass 189 Visa vary. Information on current processing times can be found on the Home Affairs website.
Questions about the Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189)? Speak with one of our immigration lawyers about eligibility and the application process in a free 10 minute consultation. Book online now.
