189 – Skilled Independent Visa

For applicants with qualifications and experience on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL), consideration should be given to the Skilled Independent 189 visa.

The 189 is a points tested visa based on several criteria including an applicant’s age, qualifications and work experience, among others.

In order to qualify, the applicant must hold a current skills assessment from the assessing body responsible for providing assessments in their occupation. In addition, the applicant must have a minimum score of competent, be under the age of 45 and score a minimum of 60 points to qualify for an invitation from Skill Select. It is important to note, while a qualifying score of 60 points may ensure an applicant is eligible for the 189 visa, an invitation may not be issued, as applicants are prioritised on the basis of the number points they claim with Skill Select i.e. an applicant with 65 points will receive an invite before an applicant with 60 points, even if the latter makes an application earlier in time than the higher point scorer.

Invitations are issued by Skill Select in periodical ‘invitation rounds’, usually ~ twice a month. If an applicant receives an invitation based on their qualifying points score, they will be permitted to make an application for the 189 visa with the Department of Home Affairs.

Recently, the number of applications under this visa stream has far outweighed the number of invites. This has resulted in the minimum invitation score being pushed up to ~ 70 points.

As an applicant, it is critical to ensure that you are claiming the correct number of points when making your application with Skill Select. Claiming additional points when not entitled, can result in an unsuccessful visa application, and loss of the visa application charge.

MAPS recommend speaking with an experienced migration agent to confirm you are eligible before submitting your expression of interest with Skill Select and lodging a visa application. To arrange your 189 eligibility assessment today, please call MAPS on 1300 899 734.