Skilled Independent Visa Australia: Achieving Permanent Residency
Interested in living and working in Australia? One popular option is the Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189), which gives skilled workers in certain occupations the right to permanently reside in Australia.
What is the Skilled Independent visa in Australia?
Australia’s Skilled Independent visa allows invited workers with specific skills to live and work in Australia permanently. You are also able to sponsor eligible family members to become permanent residents.
After four years of living in Australia on this visa, you may be eligible to become an Australian citizen.
What are the eligibility requirements for a Skilled Independent visa in Australia?
To be eligible for the Skilled Independent visa, you must be under 45 years old and invited to apply.
As this is a points-tested visa, you must be able to score 65 points or more to be eligible to apply. Points are based on categories including English proficiency, employment experience and level of education.
You are also required to take a skills assessment to ensure you are qualified to work in a skilled occupation. If you’re not sure about whether your occupation is eligible, take a look through the current list of skilled occupations on the Australian Government website.
How can you apply for a Skilled Independent visa in Australia?
The first step to applying for a Skilled Independent visa in Australia is to make sure you are eligible. Once you are certain you meet all the requirements, you can submit an Expression of Interest via the Australian Government website. If you are invited to apply, you must do so within 60 days of receiving your application.
This visa costs around A$4,640 and it can take up to nine months to process, so it’s best to apply as soon as possible once you are sure you are eligible.
What are the benefits of a Skilled Independent visa in Australia?
Living and working in Australia on a Skilled Independent visa means you are a permanent resident. In addition to living and working in Australia’s multicultural community, among its beautiful landscapes and fascinating history, you will also be entitled to certain benefits.
You will be able to get a bank loan and buy property, enrol in Medicare and take free English language classes. If you have family members who are also interested in living in Australia, you may be able to sponsor them for permanent residence too.
Make sure to check out the full list of eligibility requirements and documents required. Good luck on your journey to becoming a permanent resident!
Author: Amy Roberts
