The skilled independent visa Australia (Subclass 189) gives you permanent residency without needing an employer or a state government to sponsor you. If you score enough points in the SkillSelect system, you can receive an invitation to apply and move to Australia on your own terms. This guide explains the 2027 points calculator, the current occupation list, and what your PR timeline looks like from start to finish.
How the Points Calculator Works in 2027
Australia uses a points-based system to rank candidates. You need a minimum score of 65 points to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect. However, most candidates who received invitations in 2026 and early 2027 scored between 80 and 90 points. A higher score improves your chances significantly.
Here is how points are distributed across the main categories:
- Age: You earn 30 points if you are between 25 and 32 years old. Points decrease as you move outside that range. Applicants over 45 earn zero points for age.
- English language: Competent English gives you 0 points. Proficient English (IELTS 7 or equivalent) gives you 10 points. Superior English (IELTS 8 in all bands) gives you 20 points.
- Skilled employment outside Australia: 3 to 5 years earns you 5 points. 8 or more years earns you 15 points.
- Skilled employment in Australia: 1 to 3 years earns you 5 points. 8 to 10 years earns you 20 points.
- Educational qualifications: A PhD from an Australian institution earns 20 points. A Bachelor degree or higher earns 15 points.
- Partner skills: If your partner also holds a skills assessment, you earn an additional 10 points.
- Study in regional Australia: Studying in a regional area earns you 5 points.
- STEM qualification: Holding a recognised STEM credential at the right level can add 10 points to your total.
You can check your estimated score using the official SkillSelect points calculator on the Australian Department of Home Affairs website.
Occupation List for Subclass 189 in 2027
Your occupation must appear on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) to be eligible for Subclass 189. As of 2027, high-demand occupations include software engineers, registered nurses, civil engineers, accountants, and early childhood teachers.
You must get a positive skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority before you can submit your EOI. For example, Engineers Australia assesses engineering roles, while the Australian Computer Society (ACS) handles ICT occupations.
Salary Expectations After PR
Once you receive your permanent residency, your income will depend on your field. Registered nurses earn between AUD 75,000 and AUD 95,000 per year. Software engineers typically earn between AUD 100,000 and AUD 140,000. Civil engineers earn between AUD 90,000 and AUD 120,000 annually.
If you want to improve your package when starting a new role, research salary negotiation tips specific to your sector before you accept any offer. Glassdoor and Seek both publish current salary benchmarks by role and city.
PR Timeline: What to Expect Step by Step
Here is a realistic timeline for a Subclass 189 permanent residency application in 2027:
- Step 1. Skills assessment: Allow 4 to 12 weeks depending on your assessing body.
- Step 2. English test: Book IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL iBT and get your results within 2 to 3 weeks.
- Step 3. Submit your EOI: Your EOI stays active for 2 years. Invitation rounds happen roughly every 4 to 6 weeks.
- Step 4. Receive invitation to apply (ITA): Once invited, you have 60 days to lodge your full visa application.
- Step 5. Visa application processing: The current median processing time is 7 to 9 months for 75% of applications. Complex cases can take up to 16 months.
- Step 6. Grant of PR: You receive a visa with no expiry on your right to live and work in Australia.
The government fee for a primary Subclass 189 application is AUD 4,640 in 2027. Each additional adult applicant costs AUD 2,320.
How This Compares to Other Pathways
If your occupation is not on the MLTSSL, you may look at the employer sponsored visa (Subclass 482) or the state-nominated Subclass 190 instead. Candidates who want faster options sometimes explore express entry Canada or the provincial nominee program in Canada, where processing can take as little as 6 months. Others consider citizenship by investment programs in countries like Malta or Portugal, though these require substantial capital. If you already have a US employer, a green card application or work permit application may be more practical than relocating to Australia. Always compare each pathway on processing time, cost, and your personal eligibility before committing.
If you are searching for visa sponsorship jobs or jobs with relocation package to build your Australian work experience points, check platforms like Seek.com.au and LinkedIn for roles that include employer support. An employer sponsored visa can also serve as a bridge before you transition to an independent PR pathway.
Some applicants also work with a registered immigration lawyer or immigration attorney to review their EOI before submission. This can help you avoid errors that delay your case. An investor visa is a separate route under Subclass 888 or 132 for those bringing capital into Australia.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply for a skilled independent visa Australia if I am over 40?
Yes, you can apply if you are under 45 years old. However, your points score will be lower than younger applicants. You need to make up those points through strong English results, longer work experience, or a partner who also holds a skills assessment.
How long does a skills assessment take in 2027?
Processing times vary by assessing body. Engineers Australia typically takes 4 to 8 weeks. The ACS takes 8 to 12 weeks for ICT roles. Submit your application well before you plan to lodge your EOI so you have enough time.
Is the Subclass 189 a skilled worker visa or a permanent visa?
The Subclass 189 is a permanent visa. It allows you to live and work anywhere in Australia indefinitely. It is different from temporary skilled worker visa options such as the Subclass 482, which requires employer sponsorship and has a defined end date.
You can review the full occupation list and current invitation rounds on the official Subclass 189 visa page at the Australian Department of Home Affairs.
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.
