The 189 Visa is a points-tested permanent visa available to skilled individuals who are not sponsored by an Australian employer, family member, or designated by a state or territory. To be eligible for the Skilled Independent visa (Subclass 189), applicants must earn at least 65 points on the point test, have their occupation listed on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL), and meet other conditions such as age, English language proficiency, and work experience.

To apply for this visa, you must complete an EOI and be picked by Skill Select. You have 60 days to submit your application after receiving a request to apply for this visa. The Skilled Independent (Subclass 189) Visa holder and their family members can live, work, and study in Australia as permanent residents following the grant of this visa. The visa does not restrict the type of work the holder can undertake..