189 Visa Perth

Visa Subclass 189 (Points-tested stream)

Not all work visas require employer sponsorship. Skilled professionals may be interested in migrating to Australia independently, whereas businesses may wish to engage Independent Skilled 189 Visa holders, who have already obtained Permanent Residence in Australia by meeting a points test set by the Government. Independent Skilled 189 Visa holders have been approved for Permanent Residence by meeting several Points-tested requirements based on their age, English language ability, work experience, and qualifications in an eligible skilled occupation. Eligible occupations on the Skilled Occupation List for this visa can change from time to time to represent skills in shortage in the Australian economy.

Can I apply for a 189 Visa (Points-tested stream) to Perth?

The ‘Points-tested stream’ is a points-tested visa that can only be applied for after receiving an invitation from the Government.

Here’s a summary of the process:

1. Potential applicants whose occupation is on a relevant Skilled Occupation List can submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) to let the Department of Home Affairs know of their intention to apply for an Independent Skilled Visa.
2. Once the EOI is submitted, applicants will be ranked against others that have lodged an EOI for their occupation. The EOI will be stored in the system and is valid for 2 years.
   • Before receiving an invitation to apply for a visa, the EOI can be updated at any time if circumstances change. For example, if the applicant has gained new qualifications that can add to their points score and improve their ranking.
3. Invitations are issued regularly via ‘invitation rounds’.

Generally, the minimum score to receive an invitation for Independent Skilled Visas is 65 points, however, this does vary according to the occupation a person is applying under. The Expression of Interest process is highly competitive and you may need even more points than the minimum required for your occupation if others apply with more points than you. Invitations are issued based on points rankings. Applicants must declare that they have a suitable skills assessment and provide this when they lodge their application. They will also need to achieve a ‘competent’ level of English and be under 45 at the time they receive the invitation. After receiving an invitation to apply for a 189 Visa, you can proceed with preparing the visa application.

Like many other visas, the Department of Home Affairs requires the main applicant and any dependent family members who apply for a 189 Visa to meet specific health and character requirements. The applicants may need to have health examinations to prove they meet the health requirement. To prove that the applicants have good character, the Department of Home Affairs may also request documents such as police certificates. The visa applicant will also need to pay any debts to the Australian Government if funds are owed. All applicants who are 18 years or older must also read and sign the Australian Values Statement. Applicants who have had a visa cancelled or refused may be ineligible for this visa – you may wish to seek professional migration advice if so.