Visa 189 is a direct permanent residence category requiring no sponsorship, and is a popular target for Vietnamese migrating to Australia. Visa 189 applies only to professions on the MLTSSL. This article explains it in detail.
Visa 189 là gì
Visa 189 (Skilled Independent visa) is a permanent residence visa granted directly to high-scoring skilled workers without needing a state nomination or employer sponsorship. This is the most independent category among Australia’s skilled migration visas.
Visa 189 applies only to professions on the MLTSSL (Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List). Basic requirements: under 45 years of age, a profession on the MLTSSL, a valid Skills Assessment, English at least Competent (IELTS 6.0 in each skill or equivalent), and a minimum score of 65.
Benefits of visa 189
Visa 189 holders can live, work and study anywhere in Australia without regional restrictions. They have access to Medicare (public health insurance), free public education for their children, and the ability to sponsor relatives under related categories.
Visa 189 leads to Australian citizenship once residence requirements are met (usually 4 years of residence with the most recent 12 months as a PR). This is one of the easiest and clearest paths to Australian citizenship for skilled workers.
The reality of points competition
The minimum score to submit an EOI for visa 189 is 65, but in reality in 2025-2026, most professions need 85-95+ points to receive an invitation. Some professions such as software developer, accountant, and engineer have a large pool needing much higher scores than professions such as nurse or teacher.
Home Affairs has a 4-tier priority system for the 189: Tier 1 (severely in-demand professions) receives the most invitations, Tier 4 the fewest. Those interested should check recent invitation round results for their profession before deciding on a strategy.
You should refer to official Home Affairs website and Home Affairs – Skilled visas to check current conditions.
Summary
Visa 189 is independent PR for MLTSSL professions, requiring no nomination or sponsorship. Requirements: under 45, Skills Assessment, English at least Competent, minimum score 65. In reality in 2025-2026, 85-95+ points are needed. Full PR benefits (free living, Medicare, public education, sponsoring relatives). Leads to citizenship after 4 years. 4-tier system prioritizes in-demand professions.
