|
Quick Summary (TL;DR) :- Australia's Subclass 189 Skilled Independent visa grants permanent residency without sponsorship, open to occupations on the MLTSSL. As of 2026, invitations run on a quarterly, 4-tier priority system with points cut-offs ranging from 65 (trades) to 95 (IT/engineering). Eligibility requires a positive skills assessment, age under 45, Competent English, and a minimum 65 points — though most invited occupations score well above that. |
What Is the Australia 189 Skilled Independent Visa?
Australia continues to invite skilled professionals for the 189 Skilled Independent Visa — a permanent residency pathway that requires no employer or state sponsorship, allowing you to live and work anywhere in the country.
High-Demand Occupations on the 189 Visa List
Occupations must appear on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) to qualify for the 189. Current high-demand MLTSSL occupations include:
- Construction Project Manager
- Architect
- Early Childhood Teacher
- Civil Engineer
- Speech Pathologist
- Carpenter
And many more listed on the official MLTSSL.
MLTSSL vs STSOL — Which List Makes You Eligible?
Not every "skilled occupation list" qualifies you for the 189. Only MLTSSL occupations unlock the 189 visa. STSOL occupations (e.g., Multimedia Specialist) are eligible for the 190 or 491 visa through state nomination instead — not the 189. Always confirm your occupation's list before applying.
Eligibility Requirements for the 189 Visa
- Valid skills assessment for your nominated occupation
- Age under 45 years
- Competent English (or equivalent)
- Minimum 65 points on the points test
Note: Once invited, your EOI locks — incorrect claims cannot be edited, so verify your points before applying.
2026 Points Cut-Offs by Occupation Category
Typical Points Ranges (2026 Rounds)
- Trade occupations (Carpenter, Painting Trades Worker): 65–75 points
- Healthcare & education (Nurses, Social Workers, Early Childhood Teachers): 75–80 points
- Engineering & science (Civil Engineer, Biotechnologist): 90–95 points
- IT & analytical roles (Systems Analyst): 85–90 points
Cut-offs vary by invitation round — check the latest SkillSelect results or use our https://leamss.com/australia-pr-points-calculator for a personalised estimate.
2026 Invitation Process Update
Since mid-2025, the Department of Home Affairs runs quarterly invitation rounds under a new 4-tier priority system, replacing the earlier monthly rounds. Occupation ceilings also apply — popular occupations fill their annual cap quickly, so timing your EOI matters.
Not Eligible for the 189? Consider State Nomination
If your occupation isn't on the MLTSSL, or your points fall below the 189 cut-off, Tasmania's 2026-27 Skilled Migration Program offers a state-nominated pathway (subclass 190/491) with different eligibility criteria.
Can Family Members Be Included?
Yes — spouse and dependent children can be included in your 189 visa application.
