Australia Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) for Indians
Last verified: September 2, 2026
Overview
Permanent residence from day one, with no employer, state or family sponsorship needed — which is why it is the most sought-after and most competitive Australian visa. You submit an Expression of Interest through SkillSelect and wait to be invited. The advertised minimum is 65 points, but that is only the threshold to enter the pool: in the June 2026 round, 10,000 invitations went out at scores ranging from 65 to 100. Trades such as plumbers, electricians and carpenters cleared at 65, healthcare, education and engineering generally needed 80 to 90, and ICT and specialised technology needed 90 or more. If you are an Indian IT professional, plan for 90+ rather than 65. You also need a positive skills assessment, be under 45, and score at least competent English — superior English is worth 20 points and is usually the cheapest way to lift your score.
Requirements for Indians
| Minimum annual income | No requirement |
| Minimum savings | No requirement |
| Job offer required | No |
| Degree required | No |
| Family can join | Yes |
| Path to permanent residency | Yes |
Processing time & costs
Typical processing takes 24–52 weeks after applying. The government fee is approximately $3,200. Difficulty: 5/5.
Documents you'll need
- Score yourself honestly against realistic invitation cut-offs
- Confirm your occupation is on the relevant skilled list and you are under 45
- Sit an English test aiming for superior level
- Obtain a positive skills assessment
- Consider a Professional Year or partner points
- Submit your Expression of Interest in SkillSelect
- Wait for an invitation and keep your EOI current
- Lodge the visa application within 60 days of invitation
- Complete health examinations and police clearances
- Await the decision
- Make your initial entry before the deadline
- Apply for Medicare and a tax file number after arrival
The full ordered checklist — with timing, dependencies, apostille and translation flags, and personalized due dates — is part of the paid plan.
Is the Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) right for you?
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Check my eligibilityFrequently asked questions
- How long does the Australia Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) take for Indians?
- Typical processing time is 24–52 weeks after applying, plus the time needed to gather documents.
- What does the Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) cost?
- The government fee is approximately $3,200. Additional costs (translations, apostilles, insurance) vary by case.
- Do Indians need a job offer for the Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)?
- No. The Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) does not require a job offer from a Australia employer.
- Can I bring my family on the Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)?
- Yes — this visa allows accompanying family members, with additional documentation.
Other Australia visas for Indians
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Australia visas for other nationalities
Always confirm requirements with the official government source. This guide is general information, not legal advice.