Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)
Permanent residency pathway for skilled professionals without employer sponsorship or state nomination.
Licensed guidance for Australia & New Zealand skilled migration pathways.
Why Skilled Professionals Explore the 189 Visa
State-Nominated Pathway Toward Permanent Residency
The Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) is one of Australia’s most recognised permanent residency pathways for qualified professionals seeking greater independence within the skilled migration system.
Unlike state-sponsored or employer-sponsored pathways, the 189 visa allows eligible applicants to live and work anywhere in Australia without state nomination requirements.
For many skilled professionals, the attraction is simple:
greater flexibility, long-term residency opportunities, and the ability to build a future in Australia independently.
The 189 visa remains highly competitive and continues to attract skilled applicants from around the world across sectors such as healthcare, engineering, technology, construction, education, and professional services.
Invitation competitiveness may vary depending on occupation demand, invitation rounds, English scores, and overall migration profile strength.
What inside this visa?
✓ Permanent residency pathway
✓ No employer sponsorship required
✓ Freedom to live anywhere in Australia
✓ Family members may be included
✓ Access to long-term residency opportunities
✓ Healthcare Access- Access Australia’s public healthcare system
Permanent Residency
Live in Australia permanently.
No Employer Sponsorship
Independent migration pathway
Work & Study Rights
Work & Study anywhere in Australia
Freedom to Live Anywhere
No state or regional restrictions
Family Inclusion
Enables family members to join
Age limit
Main applicant under 45
Let’s Build Your Future Together
Trusted team of licensed immigration professionals
Personal expert guidance for Australia and New Zealand
- Officially licensed in Australia (MARA) and New Zealand (IAA)
- Powered by AI tools + real human insight
- Clear, professional advice tailored to your skills and goals
- Over 10 years of experience and thousands of successful clients
Global Talent Visa Sectors: Priority Skills & Pathways
Permanent Residency Potential
Some programs may lead to long-term residence.
Study-to-Residence Options
A Master’s/PG in AU/NZ can open post-study work and residency pathways.
Job Search May Be Easier
Especially when your skills match priority/shortage lists.
Family Can Join
Partners and dependent children can often be included.
Post-Study Work Rights
May be available depending on level of study and program.
Priority Processing in Key Sectors
Faster handling may apply in AI, Health, Energy and more.
No/Lower Points in Some Streams
Talent/priority pathways may bypass points in select cases.
Access to Public Services After PR
Benefits may apply once residency is granted.