Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)
Choose your pathway to Australian permanent residency through the Skilled Independent Visa (189). Three streams available: Points Tested, Hong Kong, and New Zealand.
Select Your 189 Visa Stream
Click on a stream to view detailed requirements and application process
Points Tested Stream
Skilled professionals with high points scores
Processing
6-8 months
Cost
$4,910 AUD
Success
96%
- Traditional skilled migration pathway
- Minimum 65 points required (85+ competitive)
- MLTSSL occupations only
- Processing: 6-8 months
Hong Kong Stream
Hong Kong passport holders
Processing
4-6 weeks
Cost
$4,910 AUD
Success
98%
- Exclusive to Hong Kong passport holders
- No points test or age limit
- No skills assessment required
- Processing: 4-6 weeks
New Zealand Stream
New Zealand citizens living in Australia
Processing
3-4 months
Cost
$4,910 AUD
Success
95%
- For New Zealand citizens only
- Must meet income threshold
- 5 years residence required
- Direct pathway to PR
Stream Comparison
| Feature | Points Tested | Hong Kong | New Zealand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Age Limit | Under 45 | None | None |
| Points Test | Required (65+) | Not required | Not required |
| Skills Assessment | Required | Not required | Not required |
| Processing Time | 6-8 months | 4-6 weeks | 3-4 months |
| English Test | Required | Functional or VAC | Not required |
| Occupation List | MLTSSL only | Any | Any |
Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)
The subclass 189 visa is Australia’s premier permanent residency pathway, offering three specialized streams to accommodate different applicant profiles.
Available Streams
Why Choose the 189 Visa?
Universal Benefits
All streams of the 189 visa provide:
- Immediate permanent residency upon grant
- Freedom to live anywhere in Australia
- Full work and study rights
- Medicare access from day one
- Family inclusion in your application
- Citizenship pathway after 4 years
Quick Stream Comparison
Not Sure Which Stream?
Quick Eligibility Check
Are you a Hong Kong passport holder? → Hong Kong Stream
Are you a New Zealand citizen? → New Zealand Stream
Are you a skilled professional from any other country? → Points Tested Stream
Need Help Choosing?
Our migration experts can assess your eligibility for all 189 visa streams and recommend the best pathway for your situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Skilled Independent Visa 189?
The subclass 189 visa is a permanent residency visa with three streams: Points Tested for skilled workers, Hong Kong stream for HK passport holders, and New Zealand stream for NZ citizens.
Which stream should I choose?
Your nationality and circumstances determine your stream. Hong Kong passport holders should use the HK stream, NZ citizens the NZ stream, and all others the Points Tested stream.
Can I switch between streams?
No, you must apply through the stream you're eligible for based on your nationality and circumstances.
Do all streams cost the same?
Yes, the government visa application fee is $4,910 AUD for all streams, though additional costs may vary.
Ready to Start Your Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) Application?
Our MARA registered agents can help you choose the right stream and guide you through the entire process.