How to Get Invited for Subclass 189 Visa

TL;DR

• Eligibility: To qualify, you must be under 45, have a positive skills assessment, meet the English proficiency requirement, and score at least 65 points.
• Expression of Interest (EOI): Submit your EOI through SkillSelect, providing personal details, skills, and qualifications. Your EOI will be ranked based on your points.
• Points Test: Points are awarded for factors like age, work experience, education, and English language skills. The higher your points, the better your chances.
• Invitation Rounds: Invitations are issued regularly to applicants with the highest points scores and in-demand occupations.
• Application: Once invited, submit your visa application within 60 days, including all required documents like skills assessment, English test results, and police clearances.

Are you feeling overwhelmed by the complexity of the Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) process? You’re not alone. Many people hoping to settle in Australia face the challenge of figuring out how to receive an invitation to apply for permanent residency. But how do you actually get invited to apply for it?

Getting invited to apply for the 189 visa isn’t just about submitting an application — you must first go through the Expression of Interest (EOI) process, meet specific eligibility criteria, and ensure you have a competitive score.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through how to be invited for the 189 visa, covering each step, from eligibility to receiving your invitation. Let’s get started!

Please Note: This article serves as a general guide to help you understand the topic, with information accurate as of the publication date. We recommend consulting a registered migration agent or check The Department of Home Affairs for precise, up-to-date guidance tailored to your specific circumstances.

Understanding the 189 Visa

The Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189), is a permanent residency option for skilled workers who do not require sponsorship from an employer, state, or territory.

Here’s what sets the 189 visa apart:

1. No Sponsorship Required:

Unlike other visas, the 189 visa doesn’t require a sponsor. If you possess the right skills and experience, you can apply independently.

2. For Skilled Workers Only:

This visa is specifically for skilled workers with qualifications and experience in an occupation listed on Australia’s Skilled Occupation List (SOL).

3. Live, Work, and Study Anywhere in Australia:

With the 189 visa, you have the flexibility to live, work, and study anywhere across Australia. There are no regional restrictions, unlike the 491 or 494 visas.

4. Pathway to Citizenship:

After holding the 189 visa for a few years and meeting residency requirements, you can apply for Australian citizenship.

5. Free English Language Classes:

If eligible, you can access free English language classes through the Adult Migrant English Program.

6. Access to Medicare:

You’ll be able to enrol in Australia’s public health care scheme, Medicare, ensuring healthcare coverage.

7. Sponsor Relatives:

As an Australian permanent resident, you can sponsor relatives to come to Australia.

8. Travel Flexibility:

You’ll be able to travel in and out of Australia for five years from the date your visa is granted.

Now that you understand the benefits and significance of the 189 visa, let’s move on to the first step, ensuring that you meet the eligibility criteria.

Step 1: Ensure You Meet the Eligibility Requirements

Before you even think about submitting your Expression of Interest (EOI), you need to make sure you meet the eligibility criteria. Here’s what you need:

1. Age: You must be under 45 years at the time of invitation. Applicants aged 18-44 receive the most points for age in the points test.
2. Skills Assessment: You need a positive skills assessment for your nominated occupation. This is done by a recognised assessing authority relevant to your profession. Without this, you can’t proceed.
3. English Language Proficiency: You’ll need to prove your English language proficiency, typically through tests like IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL.
4. Health and Character: Applicants are required to meet the health requirements (including medical exams) and provide police certificates to confirm their good character.

Now that you’ve checked the eligibility boxes, let’s move on to the next step — submitting your Expression of Interest (EOI).

Step 2: Submit Expression of Interest (EOI)

Submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI) is your first official step in the 189 visa process. Here’s everything you need to know about submitting an EOI:

1. What is an EOI?

An EOI is a declaration of your intention to apply for the 189 visa. You’ll submit this through SkillSelect, an online platform used by the Department of Home Affairs to manage skilled migration applications.

2. How to Submit an EOI:

To submit your EOI, you’ll need to provide details about your personal information, skills, work experience, and English language proficiency. Your points score will be automatically calculated based on this information.

3. Ranking System:

Once submitted, your EOI will be ranked against others based on your points score. The higher your score, the better your chances of receiving an invitation to apply.

After submitting your EOI, let’s dive into the points test and why it’s crucial for getting invited.

Step 3: Meet the Points Requirement

The points test is one of the most important factors in determining whether or not you get to apply for the 189 visa. Here’s what you need to know:

Understanding the Points System

The points test is based on factors like your age, English language ability, work experience, and education. To be eligible for an invitation, you need a minimum of 65 points.

1. Age: The younger you are, the more points you earn. Applicants aged 18-25 can get the highest points, while those aged 33-39 receive a reduced amount.
2. English Language Skills: A higher score on an English test like IELTS or PTE will earn you more points. If you have a proficient or superior English score, your points go up.
3. Work Experience and Education: The more skilled work experience you have (both in Australia and overseas), and the higher your education level, the more points you can accumulate.
4. Bonus Points for Skilled Partners or Sponsorships: If your partner also meets the points test requirements, you can gain additional points. If nominated by a state or territory, you’ll earn points for state nomination.

Once you’ve ensured your points score is competitive, the next step is understanding how the invitation rounds work.

Step 4: Invitation Rounds and Receiving an Invitation

Getting invited to apply for the 189 visa is based on your rank within the EOI pool. Invitations are issued in regular rounds. Here’s how it works:

1. What Are Invitation Rounds?

Invitation rounds typically occur monthly or quarterly, depending on demand. During each round, invitations are issued to applicants with the highest-ranking EOIs.

2. How Invitations Are Issued:

Invitations are given to those who have the highest points and meet the demand for specific occupations. If your occupation is in high demand, you may have a better chance of receiving an invitation, even with a slightly lower points score.

3. Timeframe for Invitations:

The timeline for receiving an invitation can vary, but the minimum 65-point score is often competitive enough to get invited in a reasonable amount of time.

Now that you’ve received an invitation, let’s look at how to submit your visa application.

Step 5: Submit Your Visa Application After Receiving the Invitation

Once you’ve been invited to apply, you’ll need to submit your full visa application within 60 days. Here’s what you need to do:

1. What Happens After the Invitation?

You’ll receive an invitation via SkillSelect, and you’ll have 60 days to submit your application.

2. Required Documents for the Application:

1. Skills assessment result
2. English language proficiency test results
3. Police clearance certificates
4. Health check results
5. Proof of employment (if applicable)

3. Visa Processing Time:

After submitting your application, the processing time for the 189 visa can take anywhere from 8 to 12 months. Make sure all your documents are correct to avoid delays.

Let’s now review some common mistakes you should avoid during the application process.

Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for 189 Visa

The 189 visa application process is fairly straightforward, but here are some common mistakes to avoid:

1. Incomplete Documents:

Always ensure you’ve submitted all the required documents. Incomplete applications can result in significant delays or refusal.

2. Not Meeting Points Requirement:

If your points score is lower than 65, or if you fail to update your EOI, you may miss out on an invitation. Stay on top of your points score.

3. Not Staying Updated:

Make sure your EOI is up to date with the latest information. If your situation changes (e.g., work experience or qualifications), update your EOI immediately.

Now that you understand the process, let’s go through some frequently asked questions about receiving an invitation for the 189 visa.

Final Thoughts

Getting invited for the Subclass 189 visa is an exciting step toward permanent residency in Australia. By ensuring you meet the eligibility requirements, submitting a competitive EOI, and maintaining a high points score, you’ll increase your chances of receiving that all-important invitation.

Once invited, follow the steps carefully, submit a complete application, and you could soon be living and working anywhere in Australia as a permanent resident!

If you need expert guidance through the application process or want help with your Expression of Interest (EOI), Knowbal Migration and Education is here to assist. Contact us today to get professional support on your journey to becoming an Australian citizen!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)  

1. What is the minimum points requirement for the Subclass 189 visa?

You need a minimum of 65 points to be eligible for the Subclass 189 visa.

2. How long does it take to get invited for the Subclass 189 visa?

It can take several months, depending on your points score, occupation demand, and the timing of invitation rounds.

3. Can I apply for the Subclass 189 visa without an invitation?

No, you must first submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) and be invited to apply before submitting your visa application.

4. Which IELTS score is needed for the Subclass 189 visa?

To apply for the 189 visa, you must achieve at least a competent English score in the IELTS exam. This usually means:

1. IELTS Listening: 6.0
2. IELTS Reading: 6.0
3. IELTS Writing: 6.0
4. IELTS Speaking: 6.0

Achieving a higher score can increase your chances of a higher points total.

5. Can a chef apply for the Subclass 189 visa?

Yes, a chef can apply for the 189 visa if their occupation is on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL), and they meet the necessary eligibility criteria, including a positive skills assessment and the required points score.

Have more questions? Contact Knowbal!