How to Get PR in Australia Without Employer Sponsorship

The Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189) is an excellent opportunity for skilled workers who want to live and work in Australia without needing a job offer or employer sponsorship. This visa gives you the freedom to choose where you live, work, and study across the country while offering a pathway to permanent residency.

What is Visa 189?

The Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189) is a permanent visa that allows skilled workers to live and work in Australia without the requirement of an employer sponsorship or job offer. The visa is designed for skilled professionals whose occupation is on the Skilled Occupation List and who meet certain eligibility requirements such as the points test and skills assessment.

This visa is ideal for individuals who have the qualifications and experience but do not have a specific employer in Australia to sponsor them. It provides independence in your career choices and gives you access to Australia’s benefits, including healthcare and family sponsorship.

Streams Under Visa 189: Only Points-Tested and Hong Kong/British Stream

The subclass 189 visa has two main streams:

Points-Tested Stream

This is the primary stream for skilled professionals who are invited to apply for the visa based on their occupation being on the Skilled Occupation List. Applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Skills assessment: You must undergo a skills assessment in your nominated occupation.

• Points test: You must score at least 65 points based on factors like age, work experience, education, and English proficiency.

• Age: Applicants must be under 45 years old at the time of invitation.

Hong Kong/British Stream

For individuals holding a Hong Kong or British National (Overseas) passport, there is a specific stream under the subclass 189 visa. This stream allows applicants to meet the visa’s requirements with relaxed conditions. You must have:

• Held an eligible visa (subclass 457, 482, or 485) for at least 4 years before applying.

• Lived in Australia continuously for a period of at least 4 years before your application.

• A valid Hong Kong or British National (Overseas) passport.

Key Benefits of the Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189)

The subclass 189 visa provides several advantages, including:

• Permanent residency: Enjoy the right to stay in Australia indefinitely.

• Live, work, and study anywhere in Australia: You are free to choose your location and career path.

• Public healthcare: Access Australia’s Medicare program for healthcare.

• Family sponsorship: You can sponsor your family members to come to Australia, ensuring they benefit from permanent residency.

• Travel freedom: The visa includes a travel component, which allows you to travel in and out of Australia for five years from the visa grant.

• Pathway to citizenship: Once you meet the residency requirements, you may be eligible to apply for Australian citizenship.

PR Pathways from 189 Visa

The Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189) is a permanent visa, which means once granted, you are a permanent resident of Australia. This visa offers several long-term benefits:

• Pathway to Australian citizenship: After living in Australia for a certain period, you can apply for citizenship.

• Freedom of movement: You are not restricted to a specific employer or location, unlike some other visa types.

• Family inclusion: You can include your partner, children, and dependent family members in your application, giving them permanent residency as well.

Apply for Subclass 189 Skilled Independent Visa with RACC

At RACC Australia, we specialize in helping skilled professionals apply for the Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189). With expert guidance through the application process, we ensure that all your paperwork is in order and that your skills assessment meets Australian standards.

Book your consultation today to explore your eligibility for the Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189), and we’ll support you every step of the way. With the right expertise, your application will be smooth and efficient, leading you to your new life in Australia.

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