“As per a new update from the Department of Home Affairs, The Skilled Independent (subclass 189) (New Zealand stream only) visa is permanently closed to new applications on 1st July 2023.”

 Skilled Visa Subclass 189 is a direct PR program based on points tested to invite qualified professionals in Australia.  This visa is for employees who aren’t sponsored by any family member, employer or any territory in Australia.  Also, it makes you eligible to become a PR or Australian citizen in Australia, live and work in Australia, and engage in public healthcare schemes in Australia.  To apply for this subclass 189 visa, a candidate must score at least 65 points on the skill assessment.  Firstly, an individual needs to put EOI (Expression of Interest) and requires an invitation from skillselect.  After receiving an ITA, you can apply within sixty days.  The Department of Home Affairs conducts an annual cycle of invitation rounds for skilled independent visas. The number of invitations issued is based on the number of applications and government priorities. Find out more about Australia's subclass 189 skilled visa benefits, application procedure, and processing time in the following paragraphs.

 What are the benefits of getting a subclass 189 Visa?
 On a Permanent Residency, live in Australia for the rest of your life. Job flexibility and work security 
 Access to study programs
 Travel Rights
 Take Security benefits
 Access to Medicare 
 procedure for applying for citizenship Sponsor your family member or relative
 How does it work for Skilled Independent visa subclass 189?

 Book a consultation
 The first step is to consult and discuss your profile with one of the best immigration consultants.  Our team of certified agents and immigration lawyers at Western Overseas will help you with each visa process, Whether you are interested in studying, working, or migrating to Australia temporarily or permanently. 

 Check your occupation on the skilled list
 Depending on your occupation and assessment authority requirements, You need at least 2 years of work experience for a skilled Independent visa.  Therefore, selecting your occupation from the skill list is the second crucial step. Calculate your points

 A candidate must require at least 65+ points in skill assessment to apply for a skilled visa.  So, if you are looking for assistance with point calculation and how to improve your skill assessment, visit our nearest branch to find the best solutions.  The assessing authority can take time to decide the outcomes. 

 Lodge Expression of Interest with Department
 If you score 65+ on the skill assessment, then you can lodge an EOI (Expression of Interest) for skilled independent visas.  As you fill in the information in the EOI, you will get points on the criteria of personal details such as age, education, english skills, experience, partner skills, etc. 

 Anticipate an ITA 
Wait for an ITA from the Department of Home Affairs after submitting an EOI. Once you receive an ITA, you can submit a visa fee to lodge your visa application.  You must wait for 189 visa invitation rounds as per the number of applications.  An ITA is a good sign for applying for a visa to Australia under subclass 189. After getting your visa, move to Australia. It is the last step that requires a lot of patience.  Once you receive your visa, you can get your packing to fly to Australia.  The best thing about this visa is migration to Australia permanently. 
 Complete Processing time for subclass 189 visa 

 Check the profile on the skilled occupation list
 1-2 Working days or less than that
 Make sure you meet all EOI eligibility requirements. 5-7 working days 
 Complete skill assessment 
 2-3 Months, including authority assessment
 Submit an EOI
 7 to 10 business days If you get an ITA, Apply for a visa  
 60 days to apply for visa
 Awaits decision 
 30 days and above

 Next Invitation Round 189, Process, and Cut-Off Points
 In each invitation round of subclass 189 skilled visas, candidates with the highest score get selected.  It is scheduled cyclically for the program year by the Deptt. of home affairs.  The last and latest 189 invitation round 2023 was issued on 25th May.

 How can Western Overseas help you?
 Applying for a visa is an extensive process, and we at Western Overseas help you in various aspects step by step.  We have experienced and certified counselors to assist you in visa processes for almost all countries.  It’s just like you name it, and we do it.  Here are some services from our list are mentioned below:-

 Free counseling.  Book your slot today!
 Instruction for English proficiency tests like the IELTS, PTE, and TOEFL, among others Complete instruction for all visa services Eligibility check and skill assessment

 Provide assistance and support in gathering documents
 Certified immigration lawyers in Australia to help you with post-landing services.