Step-by-Step Guide on How to Apply for 189 Visa

 You might be wondering how to apply for a 189 visa after being invited or how many points you need to qualify for this sought-after opportunity.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps-by-step process on how to apply for a subclass 189 visa. We’ll cover everything from understanding the 189 visa requirements and assessing your eligibility points to submitting your Expression of Interest and lodging your visa application. Whether you’re an aspiring international student or a company looking to sponsor employees, this step-by-step guide will help you navigate the process with confidence.

What to prepare before  your 189 visa application

Before you start your application process for a skilled Independent Subclass 189 visa, it’s crucial to lay the groundwork. This preparation phase is key to ensuring a smooth application process and increasing your chances of success. Let’s break down the essential steps you need to take.

1. Researching Eligible Occupations

The first step in your 189 visa application is to identify if your occupation is on the Medium and Long Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL). This list, also known as the 189 visa occupation list, contains 212 occupations that Australia considers valuable for its long-term economic growth.

To check if your job is on the list:

• Visit the official Department of Home Affairs website
• Look for the most recent MLTSSL 
• Find your occupation’s ANZSCO (Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations) code

Only occupations on this list are eligible for the skilled independent subclass 189 visa. If your job isn’t listed, you might need to explore other visa options.

2. Obtaining Skills Assessment

Once you’ve confirmed your occupation is eligible, the next crucial step is to get a skills assessment. This assessment proves that you have the necessary skills and qualifications for your nominated occupation in Australia.

Here’s what you need to know about skills assessments:

• Different occupations have different assessing authorities 
• Some occupations may have multiple assessment bodies, so research carefully 
• The assessment process usually involves reviewing your qualifications, work experience, and sometimes your English language ability 
• For some professions, like nursing or teaching, you might need to provide evidence of English proficiency as part of the assessment

• For some professions, like nursing or teaching, you might need to provide evidence of English proficiency as part of the assessment

A positive skills assessment is essential for your 189 visa application. This isn’t just a requirement; it could improve your chances of securing a job in Australia by proving your skills are recognised in the country.

3. Taking English Language Test

Demonstrating your English language proficiency is a crucial part of the 189 visa application process. The Australian government requires you to have at least a competent level of English. Here are the main points to remember about the English language requirement:

• You need to take an approved English language test 

• The minimum score for competent English is:

• IELTS: 6 in each component
• PTE Academic: 50 in each component
• TOEFL iBT: Listening 12, Reading 13, Writing 21, Speaking 18
• Cambridge English (CAE): 169 in each component

• Your test results must be no more than three years old at the time of invitation

Crafting a Competitive Expression of Interest

After preparing for your Skilled Independent Subclass 189 visa application, the next crucial step is crafting a competitive Expression of Interest (EOI). This process is vital in showcasing your skills and qualifications to the Australian government. Let’s break down the key components of creating a strong EOI.

1. SkillSelect Account Creation

To begin your journey on how to apply for a 189 visa, you need to create a SkillSelect account. This online platform is your gateway to expressing interest in skilled migration visas. Here’s how to get started:

1. Visit the official Department of Home Affairs website and navigate to the SkillSelect section.
2. Click on “Create a SkillSelect account” and provide your basic information, including your full name, date of birth, and passport details.
3. Choose a secure password and provide a valid email address.
4. Once your account is set up, you’ll receive an EOI ID and login credentials via email.

Remember, your SkillSelect account is where you’ll manage and update your profile throughout the application process.

2. Adding Accurate Information

Inputting accurate information has a huge impact when crafting your EOI. This step can significantly affect your chances of receiving an invitation to apply for the Skilled Independent Subclass 189 visa. Here’s what you need to include:

• Personal Details: Ensure your name, date of birth, and citizenship information match your passport exactly.

• Professional Information:

• Qualifications: List all your educational degrees and certifications.
• Occupation: Specify your current job and relevant work history.
• Work Experience: Provide a detailed record of your previous positions, including responsibilities and duration.

• English Language Proficiency: Include your English test results (IELTS, PTE, TOEFL, etc.) and scores for each component.

• Skills Assessment: Add the details of your positive skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority.

• Dependents: If applicable, include information about your partner or children aged 18 or older, including their English proficiency.

3. Strategic Points Claiming

To increase your chances of receiving an invitation to apply for the 189 visa, you need to strategically claim points. The minimum score required is 65 points, but aiming higher can give you a competitive edge. Here are some tips for maximising your points:

1. English Language Skills: Strive for superior English proficiency (IELTS 8 or equivalent) to claim the maximum 20 points.
2. Work Experience: Highlight relevant work experience in your nominated occupation. You can claim up to 20 points for 8+ years of experience.
3. Educational Qualifications: Ensure your highest qualification is accurately represented. A PhD can earn you 20 points, while a bachelor’s degree provides 15 points.
4. Age: Be aware that your age at the time of invitation affects your points. The optimal age range for maximum points is 25-32 years.
5. Australian Study: If you’ve studied in Australia, particularly in a regional area, make sure to claim these additional points.
6. Partner Skills: If your partner meets certain criteria, you can claim up to 10 extra points.

When you carefully input accurate information and strategically claim points, you’ll be well on your way to crafting a competitive Expression of Interest for your Skilled Independent Subclass 189 visa application.

From Invitation to Visa Lodgement

If you received an invitation to apply for the Skilled Independent Subclass 189 visa. Congratulations then! This marks a significant milestone in your journey to live and work in Australia. Let’s break down the next steps to help you navigate this crucial phase of the process.

Invitation Receipt

When you receive your official invitation from the Department of Home Affairs (DHA), your application is about 90% of the way through the process. This invitation is your cue to accept your place in the skilled migration program. It’s important to note that you have 60 days from the date of invitation to submit your visa application. If you miss this window, your invitation will lapse, and you’ll need to start the process again.

To make the most of this opportunity, it’s crucial to act promptly. The invitation is a testament to your competitive Expression of Interest (EOI) and indicates that you’ve met the initial requirements for the 189 visa. Receiving an invitation doesn’t guarantee visa approval, but it’s a significant step forward.

Document Gathering

Now that you have your invitation, it’s time to gather all the necessary documents to support your visa application. This step is crucial, as the evidence you provide must reflect what you submitted in your EOI. Any discrepancies may lead to an unsuccessful application.

Here’s a list of key documents you’ll need to prepare:

• Passport and photographs 
• Skills assessment report 
• English language test results (IELTS, PTE, or equivalent)
• Educational qualifications (including your highest degree)  
• Work experience documents (reference letters, contracts, pay slips)
• Character certificates (police clearances) 
• Health examination results 

If you’re including family members in your application, you’ll also need to provide:

• Relationship proof documents (marriage certificate, de facto registration) 
• Birth certificates for children 
• Evidence of dependency for children over 18 (if applicable)

While you don’t need to submit evidence until you’re invited, it’s wise to start gathering these documents beforehand. Some documents, like work experience proof and police clearances, can take time to obtain, especially if you’re claiming many years of work experience or have lived in multiple countries.

Visa Application Submission

With your documents in order, you’re ready to submit your Skilled Independent Subclass 189 visa application. Here’s what you need to do:

1. Log into your ImmiAccount and start a new application.
2. Fill out the online application form accurately, ensuring all information matches your EOI and supporting documents.
3. Pay the visa application charge. As of now, the fee for the primary applicant is AUD 4,115. Additional fees apply for partners (AUD 2,055) and dependent children (AUD 1,030).
4. Upload all your supporting documents. Use the document checklist provided in your ImmiAccount to ensure you’ve included everything.
5. Submit your application within the 60-day timeframe.
   

After submission, you’ll receive a bridging visa if you’re in Australia, allowing you to stay while your application is processed. If you’re outside Australia, you’ll need to wait for the visa grant before entering.

It’s important to note that you don’t need to arrange police and medical checks immediately after lodgement. It’s best to wait until the immigration department requests them, as these checks have expiry dates.

The 189 visa processing time can vary. Currently, 75% of applications are processed within 6 months, but this can change based on various factors. Stay patient and respond promptly to any requests for additional information from your case officer.

Apply for 189 visa with ease

Your journey to obtain a Skilled Independent Subclass 189 visa is a detailed process that requires careful planning and execution. If you weren’t sure about other documents, consult with an expert or registered migration agent. 

DO note that while the process might seem daunting, it’s designed to ensure that skilled professionals who can contribute to Australia’s economy are given the opportunity to do so. Stay patient, pay attention to detail, and don’t hesitate to seek expert advice if needed. With determination and the right approach, you can turn your dream of calling Australia home into a reality.