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Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)

Australia's points-based permanent residence visa requiring no employer or state sponsorship. Minimum 65 points to submit an EOI, but 85-95 points is the realistic competitive threshold in 2026. Invitation rounds moved to a quarterly schedule.

Points Test Breakdown

Age

25-32 years30

33-39 years25

18-24 or 40-44 years15

English Language

Superior (IELTS 8+ each band)20

Proficient (IELTS 7+ each band)10

Competent (IELTS 6+ each band)0

Work Experience (Overseas)

8+ years15

5-7 years10

3-4 years5

Work Experience (Australian)

8+ years20

5-7 years15

3-4 years10

1-2 years5

Education

PhD20

Bachelor's or Master's15

Diploma or trade qualification10

Recognised qualification10

Other Factors

STEM qualification (Australian)10

Specialist education qualification5-10

Community language (NAATI accreditation)5

Study in regional Australia5

Partner skills (skilled occupation + competent English)5-10

Competitive Reality in 2026

While the minimum points threshold is 65, the actual competitive threshold for receiving an invitation in 2026 is 85-95 points. Applicants with 95+ points typically receive invitations within 3-6 months. Invitation rounds have moved to a quarterly schedule for the 2025-2026 program year.

Minimum EOI threshold65 points

Realistic competitive threshold85-95 points

Fast-track (95+ points)3-6 months processing

Standard processing8-9 months

Invitation scheduleQuarterly rounds

State Nomination Alternatives

If you don't reach 85+ points for Subclass 189, consider state-nominated alternatives that add bonus points:

Subclass 190 - Skilled Nominated

+5 points

State/Territory nomination, grants permanent residence, 6.5-8 months processing

Subclass 491 - Skilled Work Regional

+15 points

State/Territory nomination, provisional visa (5 years), must live/work in regional area, pathway to PR via Subclass 191

Key Requirements

Occupation on the relevant skilled occupation list
Positive skills assessment from the relevant authority
Competent English (IELTS 6+ each band) minimum
Under 45 years of age at time of invitation
Meet health and character requirements
Submit Expression of Interest (EOI) via SkillSelect

Processing Times (2026)

Standard processing: 8-9 months. Applicants with 95+ points may see processing as fast as 3-6 months.

Last updated: 2026-03-15