How to Apply for 189 Visa Australia: A Step-by-Step Guide

Skilled Independent (Subclass 189) visa grants permanent residency to skilled professionals invited through SkillSelect—including eligible New Zealand citizens and Hong Kong BN(O) passport holders—without the need for an employer or state sponsor. It ranks among the most sought-after pathways for those aiming to build a future in Australia.

This visa lets you live and work anywhere in Australia indefinitely, study under domestic fees, access Medicare, sponsor eligible family members for permanent residence and travel freely for up to five years.

Since the 189 visa relies solely on a competitive points-based system, thorough preparation is essential. You’ll need to meet minimum points thresholds across age, English ability, qualifications, work experience and other factors to earn an invitation.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to check basic eligibility, identify your occupation and ANZSCO code, secure a positive skills assessment, calculate your points, lodge an Expression of Interest, respond to an invitation, organise supporting documents, submit your visa application and plan for life after grant.

1. Understand the Skilled Independent (Subclass 189) Visa

The Skilled Independent (Subclass 189) visa is a permanent residency pathway for professionals who earn an invitation via Australia’s SkillSelect system. It operates under a points-tested framework, meaning there’s no need for an employer sponsor or state nomination—your eligibility hinges entirely on factors like age, English proficiency, qualifications and work experience.

This visa also welcomes certain nationalities under dedicated streams. Eligible New Zealand citizens and Hong Kong British National (Overseas) passport holders can apply alongside general skilled applicants, provided they meet the same points criteria. Once granted, the Subclass 189 visa gives you full freedom to choose where to live and work across Australia.

1.1 Overview of the Subclass 189 Visa

The Subclass 189 visa caters to skilled workers whose occupations appear on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL). To get started, you lodge an Expression of Interest (EOI) in SkillSelect, where you’re ranked against other applicants. If your points score is high enough, you’ll receive an invitation to apply.

Key features:

• Permanent residency without employer or state/territory sponsorship
• Invitations based solely on your points score—no individual sponsorship required
• Separate streams for general skilled applicants, eligible New Zealand citizens and Hong Kong BN(O) passport holders

1.2 Key Benefits of the Subclass 189 Visa

A Subclass 189 visa unlocks a range of advantages that simplify your move to Australia:

• Live and work anywhere in Australia indefinitely
• Study at domestic tuition rates and access Medicare
• Sponsor eligible relatives for permanent residence
• Travel to and from Australia freely for five years from grant

2. Check Your Basic Eligibility for the 189 Visa

Before you dive into the detailed steps, it’s crucial to confirm you meet the fundamental criteria. The Subclass 189 visa hinges on a points-tested framework, but there are also age, English, character, health and visa-status requirements to satisfy. If any of these basics aren’t in order, it could derail your application down the track.

2.1 Age and Points Test Requirements

You must be under 45 at the date you receive an invitation and have at least 65 points on the Skilled Migration Points Test. Points are allocated across factors such as age, English ability, work experience and qualifications. The age component is scored as follows:

• 18–24 years: 25 points
• 25–32 years: 30 points
• 33–39 years: 25 points
• 40–44 years: 15 points

Keep in mind your total must reach or exceed 65 when you’re invited to apply.

2.2 English Language Proficiency

“Competent English” is the minimum for Subclass 189. Typical benchmarks include:

• IELTS: minimum 6.0 in each band
• TOEFL iBT: overall 64 (Listening 4 | Reading 4 | Writing 14 | Speaking 14)
• PTE Academic: minimum 50 in each section

You can also submit results from other Department-approved tests. Achieving “proficient” (e.g., IELTS ≥7) or “superior” (e.g., IELTS ≥8) English can earn extra points, so it’s worth aiming higher if possible.

2.3 Character and Health Requirements

Australian visa rules require you to demonstrate good character and sound health. You’ll need:

• Police certificates for every country where you’ve lived 12 months or more since age 16.
• A health examination—typically a chest X-ray and general medical check—with a Department-panel physician.

Book these checks early: delays in obtaining police or health clearances can hold up your application.

2.4 Visa Status Restrictions

Not every visa holder is eligible to apply straight away. You must:

• Not be subject to a visa condition that bars lodging a new application.
• Have no outstanding visa refusals or cancellations that impose a “bar” on you.

If your current visa carries restrictive conditions or you’ve had a recent refusal, seek professional advice to clarify whether you can proceed with a Subclass 189 application.

3. Identify Your Occupation on the Relevant Skilled Occupation List

Before you invest time in skills assessments or an Expression of Interest, confirm that your occupation is eligible for a Subclass 189 visa. Australia classifies occupations under three lists: the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL), the Short-term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL) and the Regional Occupation List (ROL). For Subclass 189 applications, only roles on the MLTSSL qualify.

Your nominated occupation must correspond to an ANZSCO (Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations) code on the MLTSSL. This code determines which skills assessing authority you’ll use, which points you can claim for work experience and how you rank in SkillSelect.

3.1 Role of the Skilled Occupation List

The MLTSSL contains occupations deemed critical to Australia’s economy over the long term—think engineers, IT professionals, nurses and tradespeople in shortage. The STSOL covers roles in demand for shorter periods (for example, some hospitality or administrative positions), while the ROL supports regional-specific needs. Because the Subclass 189 visa is points-tested and open across all of Australia, only MLTSSL occupations are eligible.

Matching your role to the correct list ensures you won’t waste time on an ineligible occupation. It also affects your visa application pathway, since MLTSSL occupations attract invitations only in the Skilled Independent stream.

3.2 How to Find Your ANZSCO Code

To pinpoint your ANZSCO code:

1. Visit the Skilled Occupation List overview.
2. Search for your job title or relevant keywords (e.g., “civil engineer” or “registered nurse”).
3. Identify the exact ANZSCO code and confirm it appears under the MLTSSL column.
4. Review any special notes—such as sub-classifications or mandatory registration bodies—that may apply to your occupation.

Having the precise code ready will streamline your skills assessment and EOI, ensuring you select the correct occupation from the dropdown menus in SkillSelect.

3.3 Occupation Ceilings and Invitation Rounds

Even with an MLTSSL occupation, invitations are subject to occupation ceilings—annual limits on the number of visas granted per ANZSCO code. SkillSelect runs invitation rounds at intervals, ranking candidates by their points score within each occupation group. High ceilings and strong demand can speed up invitations for top-scoring applicants, while tight caps may delay selection for those closer to the minimum threshold.

To gauge your chances, monitor recent invitation round results on the Department’s SkillSelect portal. Understanding these trends can help you adjust your points strategy or consider alternative occupations if your score falls below typical invitation levels.

4. Obtain a Positive Skills Assessment

Before you submit an Expression of Interest, you need a positive skills assessment for your nominated occupation. This assessment confirms that your qualifications and work history meet Australian standards. Without it, SkillSelect won’t accept your EOI, and you won’t be invited to apply for the 189 visa.

4.1 Selecting the Correct Assessing Authority

Each occupation on the MLTSSL has a designated assessing authority. Choose the right one from the start to avoid delays:

• VETASSESS: Most professional occupations (e.g., business analysts, marketing specialists).
• Engineers Australia: All engineering disciplines.
• Australian Computer Society (ACS): IT professionals and software developers.
• Trades Recognition Australia (TRA): Trades occupations (e.g., electricians, plumbers).
• CPA Australia / Chartered Accountants ANZ / IPA: Accountants and finance professionals.

Check your ANZSCO entry for the specific authority linked to your role. If you pick the wrong one, you’ll need to start over.

4.2 Preparing Your Documentation

Gathering the right paperwork is often the slowest part of the process. Make sure each document is clear, complete and—if not in English—translated by a NAATI-accredited translator. Typical requirements include:

• Qualifications: Degree certificates, academic transcripts, course outlines.
• English translations: Certified copies of any non-English originals.
• Employment evidence: Reference letters on company letterhead outlining your role, dates of employment and hours worked; recent payslips; official job descriptions.
• Identity documents: Passport biodata page, birth certificate (if required).

Organise these files in folders labelled by document type to simplify uploading.

4.3 Lodging Your Application via VETASSESS

Most general professional occupations use VETASSESS. Here’s how to lodge your application:

1. Create an online account at VETASSESS.
2. Select “Skills Assessment for Migration” → “Professional Occupations.”
3. Complete the application form, entering your personal details, ANZSCO code and contact information.
4. Upload clear, certified scans of each document (PDF or high-resolution JPEG).
5. Pay the assessment fee online.
6. Confirm submission and save your reference number.

For step-by-step instructions, refer to the VETASSESS application process.

4.4 Understanding the Assessment Criteria and Timelines

VETASSESS and other authorities judge your background against two core measures:

• Highly relevant study: Your formal qualifications must directly relate to your nominated occupation.
• Highly relevant employment: Your work experience should demonstrate skills and responsibilities matching ANZSCO descriptors.

Typical processing takes 6–12 weeks, but factors like missing documents or peak application periods can extend this. Once you receive a positive outcome, you’ll be one step closer to submitting your EOI and vying for an invitation to apply for the Subclass 189 visa.

5. Calculate Your Points Score with the Official Points Calculator

Knowing your points score before you submit an EOI can save you wasted effort and pinpoint areas to improve. Australia’s Department of Home Affairs provides an official calculator in SkillSelect that lets you estimate your total based on your personal profile. By breaking down each category, you’ll see exactly where you stand and what you need to boost to cross the 65-point threshold.

5.1 Breakdown of Points Categories

Points are awarded across ten main factors. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Age
  18–24 years: 25 points
  25–32 years: 30 points
  33–39 years: 25 points
  40–44 years: 15 points
• English language ability
  Competent English: 0 points
  Proficient English: 10 points
  Superior English: 20 points
• Overseas skilled employment
  < 3 years: 0 points
  3–5 years: 5 points
  5–8 years: 10 points
  8+ years: 15 points
• Australian skilled employment
  < 1 year: 0 points
  1–3 years: 5 points
  3–5 years: 10 points
  5–8 years: 15 points
  8+ years: 20 points
• Qualifications
  Doctorate: 20 points
  Bachelor’s: 15 points
  Diploma/trade: 10 points
  Recognised qualification: 10 points
• Specialist education (Masters by research or PhD with ≥2 years relevant study in STEM/ICT): 10 points
• Australian study requirement (degree/diploma/trade in Australia): 5 points
• Professional year in Australia (Accounting, Engineering or ICT): 5 points
• Partner skills
  Partner meets age, English and skills criteria: 10 points
  Partner with competent English: 5 points
• Credentialed community language: 5 points
• Study in regional Australia: 5 points

5.2 Using the Department’s Points Calculator

To get a precise estimate, log into the SkillSelect portal and navigate to the points calculator section. Simply enter your date of birth, English test results, employment history, qualifications and other relevant details. The tool instantly tallies your score and highlights any shortfalls. Treat this as a rehearsal: you’re not lodging an application yet, just gauging your standing in the pool.

5.3 Strategies to Maximise Your Points

If your raw score falls below 65, consider these tactics:

• Boost your English band: Achieve IELTS 7+ (Proficient) for +10 or IELTS 8+ (Superior) for +20.
• Add specialist education: A Master’s by research or PhD in a STEM/ICT field nets +10.
• Complete a Professional Year: In Accounting, Engineering or ICT for +5.
• Extend work experience: Every extra year overseas or in Australia pushes your employment points higher.
• Claim partner points: Include a partner who meets skills and English requirements (+10), or at least competent English (+5), or remain single (+10!).
• Pick up a community language credential: Accredited interpreting or translating qualification gives +5.
• Study in regional Australia: Enrol in an eligible campus outside major cities for +5.

By targeting one or two of these areas, you can lift your score well above the minimum, improving your odds of an invitation to apply.

6. Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect

After you’ve secured a positive skills assessment and mapped out your points, the next step is to lodge an Expression of Interest (EOI). This is not a visa application—it’s a profile that the Department of Home Affairs uses to rank you against other candidates. An EOI remains in the pool for up to two years, giving you time to improve your score or gather new evidence if necessary. Think of it as your digital application card: clear, concise and totally document-free.

6.1 Setting Up Your SkillSelect Account

Begin by registering for a SkillSelect account:

1. Go to the SkillSelect portal (https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/working-in-australia/skillselect).
2. Click “Create an account” and enter a valid email address.
3. Choose a strong password and set up your security questions.
4. Confirm your email via the link sent to your inbox.
5. Log in and verify your contact details before proceeding.

Once your account is active, you’re ready to start your EOI.

6.2 Completing the EOI Form

The EOI form asks for key information about you and your profile. Accuracy is crucial—any inconsistencies can cost you an invitation:

• Personal details: name, date of birth, passport information.
• Nominated occupation and ANZSCO code.
• Skills assessment outcome and assessing authority.
• Qualifications: highest degree or trade certificate.
• Employment history: years in your occupation, locations (overseas/Australia).
• English language test results: date and band scores.
• Partner details, if you’re claiming partner points (age, English, skills).

You won’t upload supporting documents at this stage. Instead, make sure every entry is honest and matches your future visa application.

6.3 Managing Your EOI in the Pool

Once lodged, your EOI sits in the SkillSelect pool for up to two years. During this time:

• You can update your profile if you gain additional qualifications, higher English scores or more work experience.
• Your points score will automatically recalculate after each update.
• Invitation rounds occur regularly; applicants with higher scores in each occupation group are invited first.
• Keep an eye on invitation trends for your occupation to gauge when you might receive an invitation.

Maintaining an up-to-date EOI maximises your chances of being invited to apply for the Subclass 189 visa. If you reach or exceed the typical threshold for your occupation, watch your inbox for that invitation!

7. Receive and Respond to Your Invitation to Apply

Being invited to apply for the Subclass 189 visa is a major milestone—but it’s not the finish line just yet. Once your EOI is selected, you’ll receive an official Invitation to Apply (ITA) via your ImmiAccount email notification. This section explains how to interpret that invitation, meet the strict lodgment deadline and take the immediate next steps to keep your application on track.

7.1 Understanding Your Invitation Letter

Your ITA contains several critical pieces of information:

• Visa subclass and stream: Confirms you’re invited for Subclass 189 (Points-tested).
• Points score: Restates the pass mark you achieved and your ranking category.
• Expiry date: The calendar date by which you must lodge your full application—typically 60 days from the invitation.

Read the invitation carefully. If any detail is wrong (for example, your name or passport number), contact Simon Mander Consulting immediately. Even minor discrepancies can cause costly delays or force you to seek a new invitation.

7.2 Meeting the Application Deadline

Time is of the essence once you accept the invitation. You have exactly 60 days to prepare and lodge your visa application:

• Log into ImmiAccount and click “Accept Invitation” as soon as you’re ready.
• Double-check that all information entered in your original EOI still reflects your circumstances—especially points-claiming factors like employment dates or English results.
• If you’ve improved your score (say, through a new English test or qualification), you can update your profile immediately after accepting—though the original invitation score stands for that application.

Missing the deadline, even by a single day, means you’ll forfeit this invitation. There’s no grace period, so set calendar reminders and work backward to schedule your remaining tasks.

7.3 Immediate Next Steps

With your ITA accepted, dive into these priority actions:

1. Gather final documents: Assemble certified copies of passports, your Invitation letter, skills assessment outcome, English test reports and any updated qualification certificates.
2. Book health examinations: If your initial health checks have expired, schedule new appointments with a Department-panel physician. Aim to complete X-rays and general exams early to avoid backlogs.
3. Obtain updated police clearances: Police certificates are generally valid for 12 months. If yours are nearing expiry or missing a recent country of residence, request fresh clearances now.

Staying organised at this stage—creating a clear folder structure, naming files systematically (e.g., Passport_JaneDoe.pdf, Health_Report.pdf) and noting each document’s expiry—will make the online lodgment through ImmiAccount much smoother. Once everything is in place, you’ll be fully prepared to submit your Subclass 189 visa application before the clock runs out.

8. Prepare and Organise Your Supporting Documents

The documents you submit with your visa application form the backbone of your case. A well-organised set of clearly named, certified files can cut processing delays and minimise requests for more information. Below, you’ll find a complete checklist, guidance on translating non-English papers and best practices for naming and formatting your uploads.

8.1 Comprehensive Document Checklist

Before you begin uploading, gather these core items—adjust for your personal and family circumstances:

• Passport biodata page: Clear colour scan showing photo, name and passport number
• Invitation to Apply (ITA) letter: Download from ImmiAccount after you accept your invitation
• Skills assessment outcome: Official result from VETASSESS or the relevant assessing authority
• English test results: IELTS, PTE or TOEFL report with dates and band scores
• Qualifications: Certified copies of degree certificates, diplomas and academic transcripts
• Employment evidence: Reference letters on company letterhead (role, dates, hours), recent payslips, official job descriptions
• Police clearances: Certificates from each country you’ve lived in for 12 months or more since age 16
• Health examination reports: Chest X-ray and general medical check from a Department-panel physician
• Partner/dependent documents: Marriage or birth certificates, partner’s skills assessment and English test (if claiming partner points)

Group these files in sub-folders—Identity, Skills & Qualifications, Employment, Health & Character—to keep track of what you’ve got and what’s still outstanding.

8.2 Translating and Certifying Non-English Documents

Any document not in English must be accompanied by a certified translation:

1. Engage a NAATI-accredited translator to produce the translation.
2. Have both the original and the translated copy certified as true copies by an authorised person (Justice of the Peace, solicitor or notary).
3. Ensure the translation includes a declaration signed by the translator, attesting to its accuracy and completeness.

Keep the translator’s contact details in case the Department needs further verification.

8.3 File Naming, Formatting, and Upload Tips

Uploading your documents with consistent names and formats will streamline your application:

• Preferred formats: PDF for text documents; JPEG or PNG for images and X-rays
• Resolution: Scan at around 300 dpi—text is sharp, and file sizes stay under 2 MB
• Descriptive filenames: Use a clear convention, for example
  • Passport_Bio_JDoe.pdf
  • ITA_Invitation.pdf
  • HealthReport_Xray.pdf
• Avoid special characters: Stick to letters, numbers and underscores—no #, % or &
• Batch uploads: Where ImmiAccount allows, combine related documents (e.g. all employment references) into a single file

By keeping your digital files tidy, correctly formatted and accurately named, you’ll present a professional application that’s easy for the Department of Home Affairs to navigate—and that brings you one step closer to your 189 visa grant.

9. Complete Health and Character Requirements

Before you can receive your Subclass 189 visa grant, you must satisfy Australia’s health and character criteria. These checks protect the community and ensure you don’t pose a public health risk. It’s best to organise these requirements early, since delays in booking medical appointments or obtaining police certificates can slow down your overall application.

9.1 Undergoing Health Examinations

You need a medical clearance from a Department-approved panel physician. Typical exams include:

• Chest X-ray to screen for tuberculosis
• General medical examination covering vision, hearing and overall physical health
• Blood tests for conditions such as HIV, hepatitis and syphilis

To book your exam:

1. Find a panel physician in your country via the Home Affairs website.
2. Schedule the full health check well before your Invitation to Apply (ITA) expires—appointments can be fully booked weeks in advance.
3. Bring your passport, visa label (if any) and any medical records (e.g., immunisation history).

Once completed, the clinic forwards results electronically to the Department. You’ll also receive a paper Health Examination Report (often called Form 26); keep this safe until you submit your visa application.

9.2 Obtaining Police Clearances

You must provide police certificates for every country where you’ve lived for 12 months or more since you turned 16. Steps to follow:

• Check each country’s process and fees—some require in-person visits, others allow online applications.
• Apply early, as clearances can take from a few weeks to several months, depending on local backlogs.
• Ensure each certificate is valid at the date of lodgment; most are acceptable if issued within 12 months of your application.

If you’ve lived in multiple places (including short stays), confirm whether certificates are required. In some cases, a statutory declaration explaining brief residencies may suffice—ask Simon Mander Consulting for advice if you’re unsure.

9.3 Submitting Results in ImmiAccount

After your ITA, log in to ImmiAccount to attach health and character documents:

1. Select your Subclass 189 application and click “Attach documents”.
2. Upload each file under the correct category—“Health” for Form 26 and X-rays, “Character” for police certificates.
3. Use clear file names (e.g., HealthReport_JDoe.pdf, PoliceClearance_Philippines.pdf).
4. Double-check uploads before final submission; missing or mislabelled files trigger Department requests and delay processing.

ImmiAccount timestamps your uploads, so you can confirm exactly when documents were received. Keep copies of all certificates and reports until your visa is granted and beyond, in case the Department asks for originals or further verification.

10. Lodge Your Visa Application and Pay Required Fees

Once you’ve accepted your Invitation to Apply and assembled all required documents, it’s time to submit your Subclass 189 visa application through ImmiAccount. This online portal manages everything from your form questions to document uploads and fee payments. Lodging correctly and paying the right charges on time ensures your application proceeds without unnecessary delays.

10.1 Lodging Through ImmiAccount

1. Log into ImmiAccount (https://online.immi.gov.au/ola/app) and select “New application” → “Skilled independent visa (subclass 189)”.
2. Complete each section of the application form, ensuring the information matches your EOI and Invitation details.
3. Upload your supporting documents under the relevant headings—Identity, Skills Assessment, Health, Character, etc.—using the file naming and formatting conventions you prepared earlier.
4. Review every entry and attachment before proceeding to the payment step. Once you submit, you cannot amend core details without departmental permission.

10.2 Paying the Visa Application Charge

The visa application charge for the Subclass 189 visa is payable at lodgment:

• Main applicant: from AUD 4,765
• Additional adult applicants: an extra fee per person
• Dependent children: a reduced fee per child

ImmiAccount will calculate the total based on how many applicants are included. Make your payment by credit card or PayPal when prompted. If you have any family members to add later, be aware that additional charges and processing may apply.

10.3 Receipt and Application ID

After payment, ImmiAccount will generate a receipt and an application ID (e.g., A012345678). Download and save both—these are your proof of lodgment and payment. Use the application ID to track progress in ImmiAccount and when communicating with the Department or your migration agent. Keeping a clear record of your receipt and ID will help you respond quickly to any requests and monitor processing milestones.

11. Track Your Application Status via ImmiAccount

Once you’ve lodged your Subclass 189 visa application and paid the fees, ImmiAccount becomes your central hub for tracking progress and handling requests. Rather than sending emails or calling the Department, you can monitor each milestone online and respond to any information requirements directly. This section explains how to keep an eye on processing times, confirm your visa conditions once granted, and deal with any additional document requests efficiently.

11.1 Monitoring Processing Progress

In ImmiAccount, navigate to your active applications dashboard to see real-time status updates. Each application shows a progress bar or status label such as “Received,” “In progress,” or “Finalised.” You’ll also find timestamps for when key steps occurred—like lodgment, health clearances received, character checks completed and final decision.

Typical processing times for the Subclass 189 visa can range widely—often between four and eighteen months—depending on factors like your occupation group, completeness of your application and Department workloads. Use the visa processing time guide tool on the Home Affairs website to compare your timeline against recent grants. If your application exceeds average processing ranges, a status check in ImmiAccount will let you see if any tasks are outstanding or if you simply need to wait for your turn.

11.2 Checking Visa Conditions in VEVO

After your visa is granted, you’ll want to confirm the details and any travel or work conditions attached. Australia’s Visa Entitlement Verification Online (VEVO) portal lets you do this instantly. You’ll need your passport details and visa grant number to log in. Once signed in, VEVO displays:

• Your visa subclass and stream
• The date your visa was granted
• Travel validity (usually five years for Subclass 189)
• Any special conditions (e.g., health or character obligations)

Save a PDF of your VEVO record for your own files and present it when opening a bank account, enrolling in Medicare or proving your visa status to employers.

11.3 Responding to Additional Information Requests

If the Department needs clarification or further documents, you’ll see a notification in your ImmiAccount inbox. These requests might ask for updated police certificates, clarifications on employment history or missing health results. To respond:

1. Open the message and read the instructions carefully, noting any deadlines.
2. Gather the requested documents, ensuring they meet the same formatting and certification standards you used originally.
3. Use the “Attach documents” feature under your application to upload each file in the correct category.
4. Confirm upload completion—ImmiAccount timestamps each submission so you can prove it arrived on time.

Timely and precise responses to additional requests help avoid unnecessary delays and bring you closer to your permanent residency grant. Keep checking your ImmiAccount regularly—weekly at a minimum—to catch any new notifications as soon as they arrive.

12. Settle in Australia: Rights, Benefits and Next Steps

Congratulations—you’ve secured your Subclass 189 visa. Now comes the exciting part: making Australia your new home. From day one, you’ll enjoy a suite of rights and services designed to help you integrate, build your career and settle in smoothly. Below are the key entitlements you gain as a permanent resident, followed by the essential tasks to tick off once you arrive, and an overview of the pathway to Australian citizenship.

12.1 Rights and Entitlements of 189 Visa Holders

Holding a Subclass 189 visa grants you almost all the privileges of an Australian citizen, with a few exceptions (like voting). Your core entitlements include:

• Work and study: You can take up any job, start a business or enrol at Australian universities with domestic tuition fees.
• Medicare access: Receive subsidised medical and hospital care under Australia’s public health scheme.
• Social security: After a waiting period, you may be eligible for certain benefits and family assistance payments.
• Family sponsorship: Sponsor eligible relatives for permanent residence under various family visa streams.
• Travel freedoms: Multiple re-entries to Australia for up to five years on your visa travel facility.

These benefits form a strong foundation for life in Australia—financially, professionally and personally. Familiarise yourself with them early so you can make full use of what’s available.

12.2 Essential Post-Arrival Tasks

To hit the ground running, tackle these must-do items within your first few weeks:

1. Apply for a Tax File Number (TFN): Your TFN is vital for employment, opening bank accounts and lodging tax returns.
2. Open a bank account: Compare major banks for fees and branch locations. You’ll need ID and your visa grant notice.
3. Get a driver’s licence or state ID: Each state or territory issues its own licence; check requirements on the relevant transport department website.
4. Enrol in Medicare: Complete the Medicare enrolment form and present your visa grant letter at a local Service Centre.
5. Set up utilities and phone/internet: Research providers for the best value on electricity, gas and data plans.

By lining up these practical essentials early, you’ll avoid unnecessary stress and start feeling settled in your new community.

12.3 Pathway to Australian Citizenship

While permanent residency lets you live indefinitely in Australia, citizenship offers extra perks—like voting rights, an Australian passport and access to more consular services overseas. To qualify, you must generally:

• Have lived in Australia for at least four years, including 12 months as a permanent resident.
• Be of good character (similar police and health checks as your visa).
• Demonstrate basic English and understanding of Australia’s culture, laws and civic responsibilities (usually via the citizenship test).

Once you meet these requirements, lodge a citizenship application online, pay the fee and attend a citizenship interview or test if required. Upon approval, you’ll participate in a citizenship ceremony and officially become an Australian citizen. It’s the final, celebratory step in your migration journey.

Moving Forward with Your 189 Visa Application

You’ve navigated the visa maze—from checking your points and securing a skills assessment, to submitting an EOI, receiving an invitation and lodging your application. Along the way you’ve gathered health checks, police clearances and organised every supporting document. Now that your Subclass 189 visa is granted, you’re ready to embrace life in Australia with the confidence that comes from thorough preparation.

Even with every step completed, migration regulations can shift and individual circumstances vary. Whether you’re refining your points strategy, updating your occupation code or fine-tuning post-arrival plans, expert guidance can make all the difference. That’s where Simon Mander Consulting comes in: our team has over two decades of experience helping skilled professionals like you turn a visa grant into a smooth transition and a thriving future.

Ready to move forward? Visit the Simon Mander Consulting homepage to explore our tailored support services and book a consultation. Let us handle the complexities while you focus on the next chapter—starting your career, settling your family and making Australia home.

SMCadmin

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