Subclass 189 Skilled Independent Visa Points-Tested Stream

Applicants with a qualifying score in the current Points Test must lodge an Expression of Interest (EOI) with the Australian Government and wait to receive an invitation before they can apply for the visa. EOI’s from all candidates with a qualifying score are placed into a pool and candidates receive invitations to apply for a visa in score order.

Candidates with the highest score receive invitations first.

In some instances, a qualifying score of 65 will secure an invitation to apply for a visa, while some in demand occupations  require a much higher score to secure an invitation.

The Skilled Independent subclass 189 New Zealand stream visa is a pathway for New Zealand citizens who hold Special Category subclass 444 visas, to obtain Australian permanent residence.

To be eligible for a subclass 189 visa through the New Zealand stream, applicants must;

• Have arrived in Australia between 27 February 2001 and 19 February 2016
• Have been usually resident in Australia for a continuous period of five years immediately prior to applying for the subclass 189 New Zealand stream visa.
• Have had a taxable income at or above the Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT), currently $53,900 plus SGC superannuation, in the 4 years immediately prior to applying for the subclass 189 visa (unless exempt).