Good fit
Skilled workers under 45 at invitation with an occupation on the relevant skilled list, a positive skills assessment, at least Competent English, and a competitive SkillSelect points score.
Australia · Skilled Worker
Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) - Points-tested stream
A permanent skilled visa for invited workers who do not need an employer or state sponsor. Applicants must nominate an eligible occupation, hold a suitable skills assessment, satisfy the points test, and be invited to apply.
Status note. The points-tested stream is invitation-based through SkillSelect. Meeting the points threshold and other eligibility signals does not guarantee an invitation or visa grant.
Decision fit
Who this pathway serves
Important limits
People without an eligible occupation, skills assessment, English evidence, or a competitive points score. Invitation rounds are competitive and not a personal entitlement.
Minimums · 8 of 9 fields sourced
Eligibility
Age
AgeMaximum modeled age: under 45
ContextYou must be under 45 to be invited for the points-tested stream. Points also vary by age band.
Work experience
Minimum0 years
ContextThe nominated occupation must appear on the relevant skilled occupation list. Skilled employment contributes points, and a suitable skills assessment is required.
Language
LanguageCompetent English
ContextCompetent English is the baseline for points-tested skilled visas. Proficient and Superior English attract additional points.
Education
AssessmentYes
ContextThere is no single universal degree minimum for all occupations. Applicants need a suitable skills assessment for the nominated occupation, and education can contribute points under the points table.
Selection threshold
Points65
Competitionhigh
Health and character
Medical examYes
Police certificateYes
Costs · 1 of 2 fields sourced
Funds and fees
Settlement funds
No settlement-fund table is published.
Application fees
- 6135 AUDMain applicant charge, from official materials
Outcomes · 6 of 7 fields sourced
Residence, work, and family
Permanent residence
WorkYes
StudyYes
ContextA successful application grants Australian permanent residence directly.
Family
PartnerYes
ChildrenYes
ContextMembers of the family unit can be included in the application and must meet health and character requirements.
Citizenship
ContextPermanent residents may later apply for Australian citizenship if they meet the separate citizenship requirements.
Processing time
ContextUse the official visa processing times tool for current indications. Invitation timing is separate from post-application processing.
Sources
Official sources
Citations
Field provenance
Information only, not legal advice. Rules, fees, and processing times change. Confirm the linked official pages before acting.