The Skilled Independent visa (Subclass 189) is a permanent residence visa designed for skilled workers who do not have a sponsor, employer or family member in Australia to nominate them. It is a points-based visa that is highly sought after by individuals who want to live and work in Australia permanently.
Pathways
To be eligible for the Skilled Independent visa, applicants must first submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect, which is an online system that allows skilled workers to be considered for a visa. Applicants must score a minimum of 65 points on the points test, which takes into account factors such as age, English language proficiency, work experience, education, and other factors.
Once an invitation to apply is received, applicants have 60 days to submit their visa application, along with all required documents and information.
Validity and Financial Requirements
The Skilled Independent visa is a permanent residency visa, which means that successful applicants can live and work in Australia indefinitely. In addition to meeting the points test, applicants must also meet health and character requirements, and must not have any outstanding debts to the Australian government.
The visa also requires applicants to have sufficient funds to support themselves for the first few months of their stay in Australia, as they establish themselves and secure employment. The amount required will depend on various factors, such as the number of family members included in the application.
Obligations
Successful applicants under the Skilled Independent visa are expected to fulfill certain obligations once they arrive in Australia. This includes abiding by Australian laws and regulations, enrolling in the Medicare system for health care coverage, and paying taxes on all income earned in Australia.
In addition, visa holders must inform the Department of Home Affairs of any changes to their personal information, such as a change of address or new passport. They must also comply with any reporting requirements related to their visa, such as reporting changes in employment or income. Failure to meet these obligations could result in visa cancellation or other consequences.
Overall, the Skilled Independent visa is a popular pathway for skilled workers who want to live and work in Australia permanently. It offers a high level of flexibility and independence, but also comes with certain requirements and obligations that must be met.