Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)

To be eligible for this pathway, you must first submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through the SkillSelect system and be formally invited to apply. You cannot apply for this visa without an invitation.

• Age: You must be under 45 years of age at the time you receive your invitation. If you turn 45 after submitting an EOI but before being invited, you lose your eligibility.
• Occupation: Your profession must be listed on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL). This list focuses on high-demand roles in sectors like healthcare, engineering, and education.
• Skills Assessment: You must obtain a formal assessment from the relevant Australian authority for your occupation (e.g., Engineers Australia or the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Accreditation Council) confirming your qualifications and experience meet Australian standards.
• Points Test: You must score at least 65 points on the Australian migration points grid. However, due to high demand, the actual "cutoff" for an invitation in 2026 is often much higher—typically between 90 and 100+ points for most occupations.
• English Language: You must demonstrate at least Competent English (e.g., an IELTS score of 6 in all components or a PTE Academic score of 50). Scoring higher (Proficient or Superior) is often necessary to reach the competitive points threshold.
• Health and Character: You and any family members included in your application must meet strict health standards and provide police clearances from every country where you have lived for 12 months or more over the last 10 years.