189 skilled Independent Visa Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is a Subclass 189 visa? The Subclass 189 visa is a permanent residency visa for skilled workers who are not sponsored by an employer, a state or territory, or a family member. It is based on a points system, and you must be invited to apply after submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect. 2. How long is the subclass 189 visa valid for? The Subclass 189 visa is a permanent visa, meaning it does not expire. However, the visa comes with a travel facility that is valid for 5 years. After 5 years, if you want to travel in and out of Australia, you need to apply for a Resident Return Visa (RRV). 3. Is it hard to get a 189 visa? It can be competitive, but not impossible. You need to: Have a job on the Skilled Occupation List Get a positive skills assessment Score at least 65 points, though higher scores increase your chances Meet English language requirements Be under the age limit Because of limited invites and high demand, it’s important to have a strong profile. 4. What is the IELTS score for a 189 visa? To apply for a 189 visa, you need at least “Competent English”: IELTS: Minimum 6 in each band (Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking) Higher scores can earn you more points: Proficient English (IELTS 7 in each band) = 10 points Superior English (IELTS 8 in each band) = 20 points 5. What is the age limit for a 189 visa in Australia? You must be under 45 years old when you receive an invitation to apply. You can still submit an Expression of Interest if you are close to 45, but you must receive the invitation before your 45th birthday. 6. What is the minimum income for a 189 visa? There is no minimum income requirement to apply for the 189 visa. However, once in Australia, you are expected to support yourself and your family. Some skilled occupations may have average salary expectations, but they are not visa conditions. 7. What is the rejection rate for a 189 visa? The rejection rate varies based on: Incomplete or incorrect documents Failed skill assessment Not meeting health or character requirements Providing false or misleading information If all criteria are met and documents are correct, the approval rate is high. Consulting a migration expert can help avoid mistakes. 8. Is PTE accepted for a 189 visa? Yes, the PTE Academic test is accepted as proof of English language skills. The equivalent to “Competent English” is: PTE Academic: Score of 50 or more in each of the four sections (reading, writing, listening, speaking) 9. Can I add my partner to my 189 visa? Yes, you can include your spouse or de facto partner in your visa application. They must meet health and character requirements. If they also have good English skills, they may help you gain more points. 10. What are the benefits of a 189 visa? The 189 visa comes with many benefits: Permanent residency from day one Live, work, and study anywhere in Australia Access to Medicare (Australia’s public health system) Apply for citizenship after meeting the residence requirement Sponsor eligible family members to join you Travel in and out of Australia freely (within the 5-year travel facility) 11. How to be invited for a 189 visa? To get invited, you need to: Check if your occupation is on the Skilled Occupation List Take an English test (IELTS, PTE, etc.) Get a skill assessment for your nominated occupation Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) on SkillSelect Wait for an invitation from the Australian government Higher points improve your chances of getting invited. 12. Does a 189 visa expire? The 189 visa gives permanent residency, which doesn’t expire. However, the travel facility attached to it expires after 5 years. You can: Apply for a Resident Return Visa (RRV) to travel again Apply for citizenship if eligible 13. Is 189 a permanent residency? Yes, the 189 visa is a permanent residency visa. It allows you to stay in Australia permanently and enjoy the same rights as other permanent residents, including access to healthcare, education, and the ability to apply for citizenship.
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