Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) - Hong Kong Stream

The Hong Kong stream is a special pathway introduced in 2022, exclusively for Hong Kong passport holders. This stream offers the fastest and most straightforward route to Australian permanent residency, with no points test, age limit, or skills assessment requirements.

Why This Stream Exists

Created in response to changing circumstances in Hong Kong, this stream provides a direct pathway to permanent residency for Hong Kong citizens who wish to make Australia their home.

Stream Benefits

• Ultra-fast processing: 4-6 weeks vs 6-8 months for Points Tested
• No competition: Not subject to invitation rounds or quotas
• Simple requirements: Basic eligibility criteria only
• Family inclusion: Bring spouse and children on single application
• Immediate PR: Full permanent resident rights from day one

Who Should Apply

Ideal candidates:

• Hong Kong passport holders at any age
• Recent graduates from Australian universities
• Current or former temporary visa holders in Australia
• Hong Kong residents seeking permanent relocation
• Families wanting to migrate together

Primary Requirements

To be eligible for the Hong Kong stream, you must meet ALL of the following:

1. Hold a Hong Kong passport (SAR or BNO)
2. Meet one of these criteria:
   • Currently in Australia on an eligible temporary visa
   • Held an eligible temporary visa that expired less than 12 months ago
   • Hold or held a Temporary Graduate (485) visa
   • Completed eligible study in Australia

Eligible Temporary Visas

Category A - Work & Study Visas:

• Temporary Graduate (485)
• Temporary Skill Shortage (482)
• Temporary Work (457) - if still valid
• Student (500)
• Temporary Activity (408)

Category B - Other Eligible Visas:

• Working Holiday (417)
• Work and Holiday (462)
• Visitor (600) - if met other requirements

No Traditional Requirements

NOT Required for Hong Kong stream:

• ❌ Points test
• ❌ Age limit
• ❌ Skills assessment
• ❌ Occupation lists
• ❌ Work experience requirements
• ❌ High English scores

English Language

Options for English requirement:

1. Functional English (IELTS 4.5 average or equivalent)
2. English medium education (secondary or tertiary)
3. Pay second VAC ($4885 per adult) if no English evidence

Health & Character

Standard requirements apply:

• Medical examination by panel doctor
• Chest x-ray
• Police clearances from all countries (12+ months residence)
• No substantial criminal record
• No security concerns

Application Strategy

Timing Your Application:

• Apply as soon as eligible
• No benefit in waiting
• No invitation rounds to consider
• Processing times remain consistent

Document Preparation:

1. Use certified copies for all documents
2. Translate documents through NAATI translators
3. Book health exams early (HAP ID upfront)
4. Apply for police checks immediately (can take weeks)

English Requirement Tips

Easiest Options:

1. Education evidence - Transcripts showing English medium
2. Pay second VAC - Simple $4885 payment, no test needed
3. Basic English test - IELTS 4.5 is very achievable

Family Applications

Including Family Members:

• Add all dependents in single application
• Children under 23 (or under 25 if studying)
• Subsequent entrant possible if not included initially
• Partner’s English not critical (can pay VAC)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Waiting for points improvement - Not needed for HK stream ❌ Getting skills assessment - Unnecessary expense ❌ Delaying application - No advantage in waiting ❌ Missing 12-month deadline - If visa expired, apply quickly

Comparison with Points Tested Stream

Professional Assistance Benefits

While simpler than other streams, professional help ensures:

• Correct stream selection - Confirm HK stream eligibility
• Complete application - Avoid delays from missing documents
• English strategy - Choose best option for your situation
• Family coordination - Ensure all members included properly