Skilled Worker Visa Australia (subclass 189) – Apply Now

The Skilled Independent Visa, Subclass 189, is a sought-after program in Australia designed for highly skilled individuals and New Zealand citizens. This visa grants the freedom to work, study, and reside in Australia indefinitely, provided the visa conditions and Australian laws are adhered to.

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Understanding the Skilled Worker Visa Australia189

Definition: Subclass 189 is a skilled independent visa offering indefinite residency in Australia. Invitation-based, applicants must meet specific score points criteria to be eligible for this visa.

Applicability: Suitable for both overseas workers and New Zealand citizens who have lived and worked in Australia for an extended period.

Visa Streams

1. Points Tested Stream

• Requirements: No sponsorship or nomination needed. Applicants must be invited based on meeting the threshold of at least 65 points.

2. New Zealand Stream

• Eligibility: Available for New Zealand citizens residing in Australia for a minimum of five years with a special visa 444.

Document Checklist for 189 Visa

Applicants need to furnish various documents, including:

• Passport details
• National identity card (if applicable)
• Expression of interest
• Character documents
• English language proficiency proof (not required for New Zealand stream)
• Skill assessment documents
• Documents for name change verification
• Various forms for partner, spouse, and dependent children

Eligibility Criteria

For Points Tested Stream:

• Invitation to apply for the visa
• Age under 45
• Positive skill evaluation
• Minimum 65 points on the score table

For New Zealand Stream:

• Hold a special visa subclass 444
• Reside in Australia for at least five years
• Meet the income threshold

Points Calculation for 189 Visa

Points are allocated based on skills, with a minimum of 65 points required for an invitation.

Benefits of Skilled Worker Visa Australia (subclass 189)

• Permanent Residency Permanent residency in Australia is granted by the subclass 189 visa, which allows individuals to reside, work, and study in the country indefinitely.
• Work Rights You are free to pursue employment in any occupation in Australia that aligns with your qualifications, talents, and experience, without regard for your employer or location.
• Healthcare Accessibility You are entitled to access Australia’s public healthcare system, Medicare, as a permanent resident. This system offers free or subsidized healthcare services, such as hospital treatment, medical visits, and prescription medications.
• Route to Citizenship You may be eligible to apply for Australian citizenship after living in Australia as a permanent resident for four years. This will grant you the same privileges as an Australian citizen, including the ability to vote and access other benefits.
• Five. Sponsorship by a family Family members (spouse, children, and other eligible family members) may be sponsored to become permanent residents of Australia, provided that they satisfy the visa requirements.
• Social Security Benefits You may be eligible for social security payments from the Australian government as a permanent resident, which include child care support, unemployment benefits, and other benefits (provided that you meet the eligibility criteria).
• Advantages of Education Domestic tuition fees for universities and other higher education programs are substantially lower for permanent residents than for international students. Additionally, you may be eligible for financial aid and student loans.
• The ability to reside in any location You have the freedom to reside and work in any location within Australia, allowing you to select a location that aligns with your lifestyle preferences and job prospects.
• Access to the Australian economy Permanent inhabitants are entitled to full participation in the Australian economy, which includes employment benefits, business opportunities, and property ownership rights.
• Dependent Visa for Family Members You have the option to include your spouse and dependent children in your visa application, which will enable them to reside, work, and attend school in Australia.

Application Process

1. Expression of Interest (EOI): Submit an EOI via SkillSelect.
2. Meet Points Requirement: Achieve a minimum of 65 points for automatic invitation.
3. Visa Invitation: Wait for an invitation to apply.
4. Visa Application: Submit the application via ImmiAccount.

Processing Times

• Points Tested Stream: 15-25 months
• New Zealand Stream: 14-17 months

Visa Fees

• Visa cost: AUD4,115
• Additional applicant fee (for English language requirement): AUD4,890

Skill Occupation List

Applicants must have a profession listed in the skilled occupation list, which includes assessing authorities and ANZSCO codes. The full list is available here.

Conclusion

Embarking on the Subclass 189 visa journey opens doors to indefinite residency in Australia for highly skilled individuals. Navigating the points tested stream or the New Zealand stream involves meticulous documentation and meeting specific criteria. As you consider this pathway, ensure thorough preparation and adherence to the visa application process.

Summary:

the Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) program stands as a gateway to indefinite residency in Australia, offering a pathway for highly skilled individuals and New Zealand citizens. The Points Tested Stream and the New Zealand Stream provide flexibility to applicants with distinct eligibility criteria. As aspiring migrants embark on this journey, meticulous attention to document submission, meeting points requirements, and adhering to the visa application process is paramount. The allure of Australia’s vibrant opportunities beckons, and with comprehensive preparation, navigating the Subclass 189 visa process can lead to a fulfilling chapter in the Land Down Under.

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