The skilled independent visa Australia (subclass 189) lets you live and work permanently anywhere in Australia without needing an employer or state government to sponsor you. If you are a job seeker from Africa or Asia planning for 2027, this guide explains exactly how the points system works, what the current requirements are, and how to apply.
What Is the Subclass 189 Visa?
The subclass 189 is a points-tested permanent residency application for skilled workers. You do not need a job offer. You do not need to live in a specific state. Once approved, you can work in any occupation across Australia. It is one of the most direct pathways to permanent residency without an employer sponsored visa or state nomination.
In 2027, the Australian Department of Home Affairs has set the annual program allocation for the skilled migration stream at approximately 109,900 places, maintaining the 2026 target. Demand continues to be high, and invitation rounds are competitive.
How the Points Calculator Works
You need a minimum of 65 points to be eligible, but in practice, successful candidates in 2027 invitation rounds are scoring between 80 and 90 points. The higher your score, the faster you receive an invitation to apply.
Main Points Categories
- Age: You earn the most points between ages 25 and 32, scoring 30 points in that bracket.
- English language ability: A superior score on IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL earns you 20 points. Competent English gives you 0 bonus points but meets the minimum requirement.
- Skilled employment outside Australia: Eight or more years of relevant work experience earns 15 points.
- Skilled employment in Australia: Eight or more years earns 20 points.
- Educational qualifications: A doctorate earns 20 points. A bachelor degree earns 15 points.
- Australian study requirement: Completing at least two years of study in Australia adds 5 points.
- Partner skills: If your partner meets the skills and English requirements, you earn 10 extra points.
- Professional year in Australia: Completing an accredited professional year program adds 5 points.
- Community language: Accredited translation skills in a community language adds 5 points.
- State or territory nomination: This applies to the subclass 190, not 189, but it adds 5 points if you switch to that pathway.
Eligible Occupations and Skills Assessment
Your occupation must appear on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL). In 2027, high-demand occupations include software engineers, registered nurses, civil engineers, accountants, and electricians. You must complete a skills assessment with the relevant assessing authority before you submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect.
For example, if you are an accountant, your assessing authority is CPA Australia or CAANZ. Engineers go through Engineers Australia. Check the official occupation list on the Department of Home Affairs website to confirm your occupation is listed.
Fees and Processing Times in 2027
The base application charge for the subclass 189 in 2027 is AUD 4,765 for the primary applicant. Adding a partner costs AUD 2,385. Each child under 18 costs AUD 1,195. Processing times for most applications range from 9 to 18 months after you receive an invitation to apply.
Salaries for skilled workers in Australia vary by occupation. Software engineers earn between AUD 95,000 and AUD 130,000 per year. Registered nurses earn between AUD 70,000 and AUD 95,000. Civil engineers average AUD 90,000 to AUD 120,000. These figures help you plan your finances before and after arrival.
How to Apply Step by Step
- Check that your occupation is on the MLTSSL.
- Get your skills assessed by the relevant authority.
- Take an English language test and achieve the required score.
- Calculate your points using the official points calculator.
- Submit an Expression of Interest through SkillSelect on the ImmiAccount portal.
- Wait for an invitation to apply during a monthly invitation round.
- Submit your full permanent residency application within 60 days of receiving the invitation.
- Provide health examinations and police clearances.
- Wait for the decision, which comes by email.
You can use the official subclass 189 visa page to start your Expression of Interest and check current processing times.
How This Compares to Other Pathways
If your points score is below 80, you may want to consider the subclass 190 visa, which requires state nomination but adds 5 points to your score. Alternatively, some applicants explore the express entry Canada system or a provincial nominee program if their Australian score is too low. Others look for visa sponsorship jobs or jobs with relocation package to qualify for an employer sponsored visa or work permit application instead.
If you are considering citizenship by investment or an investor visa, Australia has separate pathways under the Business Innovation and Investment Program. A qualified immigration lawyer or immigration attorney can help you compare these options based on your specific profile.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply for the subclass 189 without a job offer in Australia?
Yes. The subclass 189 does not require a job offer. You apply based on your skills, qualifications, and points score. You do need a skills assessment and a minimum of 65 points, but no employer needs to nominate you.
How long does it take to get an invitation after submitting an EOI?
The waiting time depends on your points score and occupation. Applicants with 90 or more points in high-demand occupations can receive an invitation within one to three months. Applicants with 75 to 80 points may wait six months or longer. There is no fixed timeline.
Should I hire an immigration lawyer to apply?
You can apply without a lawyer, but many applicants from Africa and Asia find it helpful to use a registered migration agent or immigration attorney. This is especially useful if your skills assessment is complex, your employment history spans multiple countries, or you have had a previous visa refusal. Fees for registered agents typically range from AUD 2,000 to AUD 5,000 for a full application.
Apply directly through the official portal and consult a qualified immigration adviser if you need help.
Disclaimer: Information in this article is subject to change. Always confirm requirements on the official source before applying.
