189 Visa Australia: New Cost, Process, Tips & Guide in 2025

As we enter 2025, the environment regarding the 189 visa Australia has experienced some key changes that all potential candidates need to know. The Australia visa subclass 189 falls under the General Skilled Migration (GSM) scheme and follows a points-tested system. Potential applicants need to satisfy the current 189 visa Australia requirements, such as occupation suitability and proficiency in English. A comprehensive document checklist for Australia PR 189 visa is also a must to submit a complete and correct application. Let's take a deep dive into all that you should know about the 189 visa Australia and how to increase your prospects in 2025. Right from 189 visa Australia requirements to useful tips on the document checklist for Australia PR 189 visa, this guide is here to help.

Latest Facts & News About 189 Visa Australia

If you're planning to apply for the 189 visa Australia, staying updated on the latest facts and policy changes is crucial especially as 2025 brings new shifts in eligibility, processing, and points thresholds that could impact your chances.

• The minimum points required for the 189 visa remains at 65, but recent invitation rounds show higher scores are often needed for competitive occupations.

• The cost for the main applicant is currently AUD 4,640, with additional fees for family members.

• Processing times for the 189 visa have increased due to high demand and changing immigration priorities in 2025.

• The Skilled Occupation List is updated regularly, impacting eligibility for many applicants.

• Skill assessments and English test results must be valid at the time of invitation, not just at application.

• The 189 visa allows holders to sponsor eligible relatives for permanent residency.

• New Zealand citizens with in-demand skills can also apply under a specific stream of the 189 visa.

• Applicants can be inside or outside Australia when applying and when the decision is made.

• The visa grants access to Medicare and other social security benefits after meeting waiting periods.

• The 189 visa is a direct pathway to Australian citizenship if residency requirements are met.

Also Read: Top 10 Benefits of Australian PR Visa: Latest Guide

What is the 189 Visa Australia? Latest Guide 2025

The 189 visa Australia, also known as the Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189), is a permanent, points-tested visa that allows skilled workers to live and work anywhere in Australia. 189 visa Australia applicants are required to lodge an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect and be invited to apply by point score, based on age, work history, education, and English language proficiency. The visa, when issued, offers a direct route to permanent residence and use of essential services such as Medicare. The following are the key aspects of the 189 visa Australia:

• Permanent Residency: Permits you to remain in Australia permanently, with a pathway to citizenship.

• Freedom to Settle Anywhere: There are no location restrictions—reside and work in any state or territory.

• Include Family Members: Bring eligible family members along on your application for mutual residency benefits.

• Access to Government Services: Includes healthcare (Medicare) and public schooling for kids.

• Travel Flexibility: Travel to and from Australia at will for five years from the time the visa is issued.

Benefits of the Australia Visa Subclass 189 in 2025

The Australia visa subclass 189, also called the Skilled Independent Visa, is very advantageous for skilled workers who are willing to establish a long-term future in Australia. Since it is a permanent residency visa, not only does it bring stability, but also freedom and flexibility that many immigrants desire. Here are the key benefits of Australia visa subclass 189:

1. Permanent Residency in Australia: Entitles indefinite residence in Australia with permission to reside, work, and study in Australia. 

2. Unrestricted Work Rights: Entitles the holder to work in any occupation or industry without employment conditions.

3. Access to Medicare: Access Australia's public health system for you and your family.

4. Family Inclusion: Include spouse and dependent children within the same visa application.

5. Sponsor Relatives: After being granted PR, you can sponsor eligible relatives for other visas.

6. Citizenship Pathway: After satisfying residency and character requirements, you can apply for citizenship.

7. Access to Education: Your kids are able to access public education as local citizens.

8. Legal and Social Privileges: Receive the same legal rights and services as Australian citizens.

Also Read: Apply  Working Visa in Australia: Types, Benefits, Process

Latest 189 Visa Australia Requirements: Updated 2025

The 189 visa Australia requirements encompass a range of areas, including age, work eligibility, occupational skills assessment, English language capability, health and character requirements, and points scoring. Satisfying all of the 189 visa Australia requirements to be issued an invitation for application under the General Skilled Migration (GSM) process. With strict criteria in place, it’s important to prepare thoroughly and understand each component of the 189 visa Australia requirements before submitting your Expression of Interest (EOI).

1. Points Test and Expression of Interest (EOI)

To be eligible, applicants must score at least 65 points on the Australian immigration points test. Points are awarded based on factors like age, English proficiency, work experience, education, and more. After calculating your score, you’ll need to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through the online SkillSelect system.

2. Skills Assessment and Occupation List

All candidates need to receive a positive skills assessment from an appropriate assessing authority. This is to ensure that your qualifications and work experience meet Australian standards for your nominated occupation. You also need to have your occupation on the Skilled Occupation List (MLTSSL) in order to qualify for the 189 visa. There is an individual assessing authority for each occupation. Here are the key required documents:

• Certified copies of degrees or diplomas

• Employment references

• Assessment report from relevant authority (e.g., ACS, VETASSESS)

3. English Language Proficiency

To meet the English language test requirement, applicants must demonstrate competent English at a minimum. Accepted tests and scores include:

4. Health and Character Requirements

All applicants must satisfy health and character requirements before the visa can be granted. This includes completing medical exams and providing police clearance certificates from all countries lived in for more than 12 months over the last 10 years.

Step-by-Step Process to Apply for the 189 Visa Australia in 2025

Applying for the 189 visa Australia is a complicated matter, but manageable with planning and preparation. The visa is a points-tested permanent resident visa for non-sponsored skilled workers. Whether you apply inside or outside Australia, following the steps precisely is the way to obtain the 189 visa Australia successfully. The following is a clear, chronological explanation of the 189 visa Australia application process.

1. Check Your Eligibility

Before you start, ensure you are under 45 years old and satisfy the minimum 189 visa Australia requirements:

• Less than 45 years of age

• Your occupation is on the Skilled Occupation List (MLTSSL)

• Competent English

• Score a minimum of 65 points

• Good health and character

2. Complete a Skills Assessment

Get a positive skills assessment from your relevant authority for your occupation. This is to demonstrate that your qualifications and experience are equal to Australian standards.

3. Obtain an English Language Test

Sit for a recognised English examination (IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, or OET) and obtain at least "Competent English." Better scores can increase your points.

4. Work out Your Points

Utilise the authorised points calculator to ascertain if you are meeting or passing the 65-point minimum mark to be eligible for the 189 visa Australia.

5. Lodge an Expression of Interest (EOI)

Make a profile on SkillSelect and lodge your EOI. You need to:

• Select the 189 visa option

• Enter correct information about your qualifications, experience, and points

• Wait to be invited based on your score and occupation needs

6. Get an Invitation to Apply

If invited, you will get an official invitation to make a visa application. You will have 60 days to lodge all documents.

7. Prepare and Lodge Your Visa Application

Collect your supporting documents:

• Identity and passport information

• Skills assessment report

• English test results

• Employment references

• Health and character documents

8. Get Health Checks and Submit Police Clearances

Get a medical exam by an approved panel doctor and provide police clearance certificates for all countries of residence that are relevant.

9. Wait for the Visa Decision

Processing times can vary depending on demand. While waiting, make sure all contact details and documents are current. Immigration may request additional information.

10. Receive the Visa Grant

Once approved, you’ll be issued the 189 visa Australia. This grants you:

• Permanent residency

• Work and study rights

• Access to Medicare

• A direct pathway to citizenship

Also Read: Average Salary in Australia Per Month: Latest Figures

Latest Document Checklist for Australia PR 189 Visa in 2025

It is critical to prepare a proper and accurate document checklist for Australia PR 189 visa to avoid delay or rejection in your application. Every supporting document has an important role to play in confirming your suitability for the Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189). Presentation of incorrect or incomplete documents could lead to refusal or delayed processing. Following is an item-by-item, detailed list of the documents:

• Passport Bio-data Page

• Birth Certificate

• National Identity Card (If Applicable)

• Passport Photo

• Skills Assessment Report

• English Language Test Results

• Educational Certificates

• Employment Reference Letters

• Payslips / Tax Documents

• Employment Contracts

• Superannuation Records (If Applicable)

• Partner's Skills & English Evidence (If Claiming Points)

• Marriage Certificate or Relationship Evidence

• Police Clearance Certificates

• Health Assessment Records

• Form 80 (Personal Particulars for Character Assessment)

• Form 1221 (Additional Personal Details)

• Change of Name Documents (If Applicable)

• Custody or Adoption Papers (If Including Children)

• Statutory Declarations (If Applicable)

Latest 189 Visa Processing Time, Fees, and Recent Trends in 2025

Knowing the 189 visa Australia processing time, application costs, and latest government immigration trends is crucial for anyone planning on applying for this permanent skilled visa. The 189 visa Australia is very competitive because it is not dependent on employer or state sponsorship, thus making it a sought-after option for skilled migrants.

1. Processing Time

As of 2025, the processing time for the 189 visa Australia can vary depending on application volume and the complexity of each case. The general time frames are:

• 75% of applications: Processed in 10–12 months

• 90% of applications: Processed in 14–16 months

2. Visa Fees

The current visa fees for the 189 visa Australia are:

• Main applicant: AUD 4,640

• Additional applicant (18 years or older): AUD 2,320

• Additional applicant (under 18 years): AUD 1,160

3. Recent Trends & Invitation Rounds

Key 2025 trends for Australia:

• High invitation scores for in-demand occupations

• Fewer general round invitations due to program caps

• The government focus on regional development and economic recovery

• Updated Skilled Occupation List impacting eligibility

Also Read: Job Portals in Australia: Find Your Dream Job

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them in Your 189 Visa Application in 2025

Submitting an error-free 189 visa Australia application is essential to avoid delays or even rejection. Below are some of the most common visa application mistakes, along with practical tips to help you steer clear of them.

1. Incorrect Expression of Interest (EOI) Submission

The most common EOI mistake is incorrect or inflated points claims submission. Applicants may wrongly calculate their age points, experience duration, or education level.

How to avoid it: Double-check everything prior to submitting your EOI in SkillSelect. Use supporting evidence with official documents and verify dates and qualifications.

2. English Test or Skills Assessment Expiration

One common mistake is having a test result or skills assessment that has expired by the time of invitation, rendering the application invalid.

How to prevent it: Ensure your IELTS/PTE/TOEFL/OET results and skills assessment are current at the time you receive your invitation, not only when you lodge your EOI.

3. Not Enough Points for a Competitive Occupation

While 65 is the minimum to be considered for an invitation, most applicants wrongly think it will suffice. In most professions, particularly in IT or engineering, the score needed is usually 85+.

How to steer clear of it: Keep current about recent invitation rounds and try to boost your points by improving your English tests, partner credentials, or participating in a Professional Year course.

4. Missing or Unverified Documents

Candidates usually omit significant documents such as employment reference letters, or they provide unclear copies or non-certified documents.

How to avoid it: Adhere to the entire document checklist of Australia PR 189 visa. Ensure documents are clear, properly certified, and translated into English by a certified translator if necessary.

5. Delays in Health and Character Checks

If you delay completing health checks or getting police certificates, your visa outcome may be delayed considerably.

How to prevent it: Have medical tests completed as soon as you get your HAP ID. Apply for police certificates for all countries in which you've resided for over 12 months in the previous 10 years as soon as possible.

189 Visa vs 190 Visa vs 491 Visa: Which is Right for You? Latest Guide 2025

The most sought-after skilled migration routes are the 189 visa, 190 visa, and 491 visa—each with its own advantages, eligibility criteria, and permanent residency streams.

Conclusion

The 189 visa Australia is one of the first preferences of skilled migrants aiming for permanent residence. Being an entirely independent option, the Australia visa subclass 189 allows you to settle and work in any location without sponsorship. Provided that you qualify under the main 189 visa Australia requirements such as a skills assessment, a specified occupation, and adequate points—you may be able to access Medicare, sponsor relatives, and eventually apply for citizenship. Success relies on the submission of precise documents from the Australia PR 189 visa document checklist, gaining competitive points, and preventing errors. In 2025, with new policies and the competition being more stringent, it's crucial to be informed than ever before. If you are thinking of immigrating to Australia, then TerraTern is here to help you through the process. With services curated carefully and an expert team, TerraTern can take you through the process, making it easy for you!